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Root Canal Sandy Springs, GA

Root Canal An Overview

Dr. Paulen performs root canal therapy whenever possible to save the natural tooth. Modern dentistry has proven the benefits of keeping natural teeth for both long-term dental health and overall physical well-being.

The term root canal refers to the interior of a tooth where the pulp and nerves are located. A root canal treatment is needed when a tooth is significantly damaged or has decay that extends into the pulp chamber. Tooth pain is usually the first sign patients experience, though a dentist can spot infection during routine examinations.

You may need a root canal if one or more of the following conditions apply:

  • Intense toothache
  • Sensitivity to hot and cold foods and/or beverages
  • Swollen gums
  • Discoloration of the teeth

We perform root canals to repair damaged and decayed teeth. When the pulp of the tooth is compromised, it needs to be removed, and the tooth must be cleaned and sealed.

Your ultimate wellness and dental health are important to our team at Proud Smiles. We work with you to improve your smile and get you a step closer to optimal oral health.

The Stigma of Root Canals

Many people are afraid to get root canals because of the stigma that surrounds them. They’re thought to be something extremely painful when really, the opposite is true. The infection causes the pain and pressure you feel in your tooth. The dental pulp contains nerve endings and other soft tissue. These become irritated and swell when they’re infected.

The irritated tissues are trapped inside the hard enamel of the outside of your tooth. This causes pressure and pain, particularly when you go to bite or chew food. You may also experience sensitivity when things are really hot or cold. The pain continues until you’re able to relieve the swelling.

A root canal does this. Instead of being something that causes pain for you, many patients feel immediate relief when they get the root canal. We clean out the infected tissue so that it’s no longer putting pressure on the walls of your tooth. You may experience some soreness after the procedure, but the persistent pain should be relieved.

Root Canal What to Expect

During your appointment, Dr. Paulen will examine the teeth and determine if a root canal is deemed necessary. As a highly trained dentist, Dr. Paulen will only recommend a root canal if that is the only way to save the affected tooth. The goal is to preserve as much of the natural tooth structure as possible in the hopes of avoiding extraction.

Our team will explain all aspects of your care to ensure you are fully informed and engaged during your appointment. We make every effort to keep you comfortable during your treatment. If needed, we offer a full range of dental sedation solutions and can explore your options during your visit.

The process by which you receive your root canal will depend on the specifics of your case. In many cases, the affected tooth is gently cleaned, and the infected or damaged portion of the tooth is removed.  We then fill the tooth with a biocompatible material and seal it to prevent future damage. To strengthen a tooth after the root canal procedure, we often recommend placing a dental crown.

Root Canal FAQs

Is a root canal painful?

The pain associated with a root canal is often from the infection within the tooth that will be addressed with root canal therapy. Most patients would say that a root canal procedure is no more painful than a dental filling. Dr. Paulen offers sedation dentistry options and will ensure that you are comfortable and relaxed during your treatment.

Wouldn’t it be better to just have the tooth pulled?

The best treatment choice will depend on your specific situation and circumstances, however, it is usually in the best interest of the patient to preserve the natural tooth through a root canal procedure or other treatment methods. An extracted tooth should always be replaced to prevent neighboring teeth from shifting and to reduce the risk of bone loss, tooth decay, and gum disease.

How much does a root canal cost?

Factors that go into determining the price of the root canal procedure include the extent of damage to the tooth and the type of restoration needed (ex. dental filing vs. dental crown). Some dental insurance providers will pay for all or part of the cost of root canal therapy. Proud Smiles office staff will assist you with billing and documentation for your insurance company to help maximize your benefits.