Root Canal Treatment In Los Gatos, CA

During a root canal treatment, the dentist will:

1. Remove the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth by using a drill to open it through the crown (i.e. the flat top part of your tooth).
2. Clean and disinfect the interior.
3. Fill the space with a root canal-filling material.
4. Seal the tooth with a crown.

Modern-day root canal procedures in our Los Gatos dental clinic are generally not painful. This is thanks to the use of local anaesthesia. Patients may feel some discomfort, but advancements in techniques and technology have significantly reduced the pain associated with root canals. Patients can also expect mild discomfort post-treatment and will be advised to manage the pain with over-the-counter pain relievers.

The duration of a root canal treatment varies based on factors such as:

• The location of the tooth.
• The complexity of the issue.
• The severity of the infection.

A basic root canal procedure can take between 30 minutes to 1 hour per root canal. The whole treatment usually takes up to 90 minutes or 2 hours since there are additional steps required (i.e. general set-up, anaesthesia, cleaning, and sealing). It is important to know that a tooth may have multiple root canals and that this will require more time. Also, depending on the type of tooth affected, a root canal can take more time than others. For example, a molar root canal procedure is the most time-consuming, as the molars are located at the back of the mouth and can have up to four canals.

After the initial treatment, additional appointments may be needed for the placement of a permanent crown or any other adjustments.

Root canal prices vary based on factors like the tooth's location and the severity of the issue. On average, the cost of a root canal without a crown ranges from  $600 to  $2000 depending on where the tooth is located and how many root canals need to be done. The average cost of a root canal and a crown can range from $2000 to $4000. An initial exam and a scan will need to be done before the treatment, which can have additional costs. Dental insurance may cover part of the expenses, but overall costs depend on individual cases.

Common side effects after a root canal include mild pain or discomfort, swelling, and tooth sensitivity. These are usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Severe complications are rare, and the procedure is generally considered safe and effective in preserving the tooth.

The three main stages of a root canal treatment are:

1. Removing the pulp and cleaning the canal
2. Shaping the canal to prepare it for filling
3. Filling the canal with a biocompatible material to seal the tooth.

Antibiotics are not usually prescribed after a successful root canal. However, if there is a pre-existing infection or complications that arise during the procedure, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to ensure complete healing and prevent the spread of infection.

After a root canal, your dentist in Los Gatos will advise you to avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it's fully restored with a crown. Additionally, good oral hygiene, attending follow-up appointments, and refraining from extremely hot or hard foods can contribute to a fast, smooth and successful recovery.