If you are experiencing tooth pain, a root canal can help bring your some relief. Call our office, conveniently located in Ahwatukee, if you have any questions!
Root canals treat and preserve teeth with badly infected roots. Dental pulp is the live portion of the tooth that extends into the root and contains nerve endings and tissues. When the pulp is infected, patients can experience pain, swelling and total tooth loss if they neglect to treat it appropriately. Root canals clean out the damaged parts of the tooth and infected root. In some cases, an antibiotic will further help prevent infection within the tooth. The dentist or endodontist will then restore the remaining portion of the natural tooth using a cap or crown.
Did You Know?
Local anesthetics and technological advancements in modern dentistry mean root canals are now highly tolerable procedures that cause minimal discomfort, similar to a standard filling. Once the root canal is complete, the restored tooth will blend in perfectly with surrounding teeth. It is virtually undetectable to the average eye. More than 9 out of 10 root canal procedures work perfectly and without issue. Most treatments last years. Shine Dental Arts is proud to offer root canals that are as painless as possible.
Root canal therapy is a very common procedure. It has a reputation of being undesirable and painful. But when done properly it is actually painless. Every tooth in your mouth is composed of a crown and a root. When a cavity or bacteria penetrates the tooth, the root and its nerves become irritated. As a result, the bacteria within the pulp cavity needs to be removed and cleaned in order to restore the tooth to its healthy state. Following the procedure, the tooth is fragile and consequently is restored with the natural crown for a lifetime of durability. Root canals have a success rate of 95% or greater. Most root canal are diagnosed by patients’ sensitivities to a specific tooth. Be sure to consult your dentist any symptoms or discomfort occur.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Am I a candidate for a root canal by my affordable Ahwatukee dentist?
If decay or damage has enabled bacteria to infect the pulp inside your tooth, you may be a great candidate for a root canal procedure. A root canal could also be the right treatment if you prioritize protecting your natural tooth above all else. Root canals can save a tooth from extraction. For more information about root canals, schedule a dental exam at our Ahwatukee office to learn more.
What should I expect during my root canal treatment?
The first step of your root canal will involve a local anesthetic. Once the tooth root is numb, the dentist will remove the diseased portion of your tooth pulp and treat any bacterial infection. The dentist will then seal and fill the tooth before restoring it with a crown.
What type of post-treatment care is required after a root canal?
Some minor inflammation after a root canal is totally normal. This might cause some sensitivity in the days after treatment. Fortunately, patients are able to resume normal brushing and flossing habits immediately after treatment and restoration is complete. Call Shine Dental Arts if pain persists for emergency dental care.
Is a root canal painful?
No! Modern root canals are virtually painless. Dentists use local anesthesia to keep the area numb throughout treatment. You may feel pressure as we work on your tooth, but not pain. After treatment, you may experience mild soreness and sensitivity, but it is easy to manage with home remedies and over-the-counter pain relievers. Many patients are surprised to realize that root canals are comfortable and seamless.
How long does the root canal treatment take?
The duration of treatment depends on the tooth involved and the complexity of the treatment. However, we can complete most root canals in 60-90 minutes, with molars taking longer due to multiple canals. We can complete some root canals in a single visit, though others may require 2-3 appointments. We will advise you on realistic timelines during your consultation.
Do I need a dental crown after the root canal procedure?
In most cases, yes. A root canal removes the diseased tissue, which leaves the tooth brittle over time. A crown protects the remaining tooth structure and helps ensure long-term function. Molars and premolars are likely to need protection with a dental crown because they are heavily used for grinding and chewing. Teeth in the front may only need a filling, though this depends on the tooth’s structural integrity.
Can a root canal fail?
Root canal therapy has a high success rate of over 95%. However, failure can occur in rare cases. Contributing factors may include complex canal anatomy, a new infection, delayed restoration, or fracture of the treated tooth. If the initial treatment fails, we will recommend retreatment or endodontic surgery (apicoectomy) to give your tooth a second chance.
Is it better not to extract the tooth?
Saving your natural tooth is the best option whenever possible. Extraction may seem like the easier route, but it leaves a gap that affects your bite alignment, bone health, and functionality. If you choose to replace the extracted tooth, your options include implants and bridges, which can be costly and time-consuming. Root canal therapy allows patients to retain their natural teeth and avoid costly replacements.
How much does root canal treatment cost in Phoenix, Arizona?
The cost of a root canal varies, depending on:
- Location of the tooth
- Complexity of treatment
- Type of restoration
- Insurance coverage
We will provide a cost breakdown during your consultation. We are upfront with our pricing to ensure you proceed with confidence and clarity.
How long does the treated tooth last?
Your treated tooth can last several years, or even a lifetime. However, long-term success depends on good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.
Will insurance cover the procedure?
Most dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for root canal therapy, typically between 50–80%, depending on the policy. However, coverage limits, deductibles, and waiting periods may apply. It is advisable to verify benefits with your insurance provider or our office before treatment to avoid surprises down the line.
How can I avoid a root canal in the future?
Follow these simple tips to avoid future root canals.
- Brush and floss your teeth diligently
- Treat cavities and minor issues before they advance
- Consider a custom nightguard if you grind or clench your teeth at night
- Visit your Phoenix dentist at least twice annually
Where can I get a root canal dentist in Phoenix, Arizona?
Do you have a sensitive or painful tooth that just will not go away? At Shine Dental Arts, we offer gentle root canals as one of the most effective ways to treat deep-seated infections. Call (480) 893-3072 and schedule your appointment with Dr. Vanessa L. Quihuis.
