Maintaining oral and overall health are important and that’s why when you encounter dental problems it’s always an excellent idea to explore all of your options. One option for saving a tooth is a root canal. But, how do you know when a root canal might be a good option? Is a root canal safe? These are valid questions that you should explore with your dentist in Lincoln, NE before saying “yes”.
Root Canal or Tooth Extraction?
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy Explained.
See when endodontic treatment is necessary from a Lincoln, NE dentist near you
A root canal procedure is also called endodontic therapy. Endodontics in Lincoln, NE or endodontic therapy is a procedure designed to replace the infected pulp from the center of a tooth with an inert material.
With this in mind, many patients worry that their root canal treatment will be very uncomfortable, but in reality, it is most often a very comfortable and easy procedure. It only takes a tad longer than placing a regular filling. Because of this, root canals are one of the most efficient and affordable methods to treat an acute toothache or a dental infection. Therefore, root canals can be a great way provide quick relief of dental discomfort.
When do you need endodontic treatment? Our Northeast Lincoln, NE dentist explains…
The leading cause of a root canal is infection and inflammation inside the tooth’s center where the nerve resides. Similarly, the leading cause of infection is tooth decay (or a cavity) that has reached the nerve. Unfortunately, cavities don’t cause any discomfort until they reach the nerve of the tooth and, if left untreated, can lead to inflammation followed by a dental abscess.
A dental abscess can ultimately only be treated by endodontic therapy done by a gentle, family dentist in Lincoln, NE, or by removing the tooth. In some cases, endodontic treatment may be necessary after extensive dental work, such as extensive dental fillings or dental crowns. Lastly, endodontic therapy may necessary when a tooth has been damaged or traumatized.
Taking an anti-inflammatory medication, such as Ibuprofen, can help relieve a toothache, but it seems like it only works as temporary relief.
Does a root canal hurt? Our Northeast Lincoln, NE dentist explains…
Dr. Sullivan, your dentist near me in Lincoln, NE says, “The key to a comfortable root canal is adequate anesthesia. To ensure a healthy root canal, I always do two things: I use a different type of anesthetic than what I use for routine dental work, and I ensure that enough time is allowed for every root canal procedure. Why? Because teeth that are infected or inflamed may take longer to get numb.”
Dr. Sullivan also says, “I completely understand that patients anticipate discomfort with a root canal procedure. I always remind them that the inflammation or infection inside their tooth before having the root canal procedure caused discomfort; and the root canal will almost immediately take that sensation away. A root canal’s purpose is to take the discomfort away and not be the cause.”
Is a root canal a better option than a dental implant? Our Northeast Lincoln, NE dentist explains…
A root canal is an excellent option for keeping your natural tooth. By keeping your tooth, you’ll be able to avoid problems associated with losing that tooth, such as unwanted tooth migration, bone loss, or difficulty chewing. However, sometimes, a tooth is too infected or is missing too much structure to undergo a root canal. When a dentist in Lincoln, NE can’t treat a tooth with root canal therapy, a dental implant is an excellent option.
Signs and symptoms that could mean you need endodontic work
Sometimes teeth are sensitive to temperature changes but do not need a root canal. A root canal is a reasonable recommendation when there is an acute toothache that does not improve and keeps patients up at night. Root canals can also be recommended if any of those symptoms persist:
- Sudden and severe sensitivity to cold temperatures
- Extreme sensitivity to touch and pressure
- A large cavity has reached the pulp center of a tooth
- Swelling or a dental abscess is visible on the gum surrounding a tooth
- An X-ray shows an infection near an end of a tooth’s root
What is the cost of affordable and gentle root canal therapy in Lincoln, NE? Is there a dentist near me who does endodontic treatment? Our Northeast Lincoln, NE dentist explains…
Most dental insurances cover a portion of this procedure. For patients that do not have dental insurance coverage; however, the cost for this procedure depends on the position and severity of the tooth needing a root canal. At Northeast Lincoln Family Dentistry, we offer easy-to-understand dental payment plans so patients can receive the treatment they need. We will estimate in advance based on your insurance status the cost of endodontic treatment after an initial consultation.
Do I need an endodontist to perform a root canal? Our Northeast Lincoln, NE dentist explains…
In most situations, your dentist in Lincoln, NE, Dr. Kelsey Sullivan can complete root canals in 1-2 visits. However, some teeth have complicated anatomy; therefore, an endodontist should perform this procedure.
Cracked tooth and root canal prognosis
If a crack in a tooth is small, endodontic therapy done by a dentist in Lincoln, NE can be performed, ultimately saving the tooth. On the other hand, if it is a larger crack or break that extends to the roots of a tooth, it would be most beneficial to have the tooth extracted (removed).
Endodontists explain the step by step process of getting a root canal:
American Endodontists talk about the common myths of root canals:
When a root canal fails; Common failures of root canals:
Influence of microbiology on endodontic failure. Literature review:
Lincoln endodontist talking about the movie, Root Cause:
The American Academy of Endodontists answers this question regarding the safety of root canals for overall health:
Myths about root canals. Get answers from the American Academy of Endodontists answers:
In this video an Endodontist will answer the question: Are root canals safe for your health?
More about potential complications
Are root canals safe for my health when done by a dentist in Lincoln, NE? Our Northeast Lincoln, NE dentist explains…
Root canals are safe for your overall health as long as no residual infection remains inside of the tooth. With this in mind, if a tooth is extremely infected or cracked, the chance of saving the tooth with a root canal is slim. It is difficult to remove any residual infection remaining in the canals of the tooth.
Lingering infection that remains inside of a tooth can lead to a low-grade infection at the apices of a tooth. Consequently, this could potentially create higher levels of inflammation within the body. Thus, it could further contribute to additional medical conditions. You will begin with a consult with your dentist in Lincoln, NE to ensure if a root canal can adequately treat your tooth. Also, be sure to consider the option that will benefit your overall health.
Will I feel sensitivity or have discomfort after a root canal?
It is common to have mild gum sensitivity for a few days following the root canal procedure. However, if the gum sensitivity and discomfort return after several days, months, or even years, it could be a sign of reinfection and the tooth needing attention.
Can I whiten a root canal treated tooth?
Most teeth that have undergone a root canal get darker over time, and simple teeth whitening may not be enough to hide the darker tooth color. Nevertheless, dental veneers or dental crowns can correct discoloration associated with endodontic therapy.
If you have a severe toothache or a dental abscess, call Northeast Lincoln Family Dentistry to make an appointment. You can also request an appointment online at any time. If you have concerns regarding a sedation dentist near me, we would be happy to help. So, don’t wait and get scheduled with an “affordable dentist near me.” We believe everyone deserves to smile!
The information on this page was written by Dr. Kelsey Sullivan.
This gentle Lincoln, NE dentists says: “My patients deserve personalized, quality dental care in an atmosphere they feel comfortable in. At Nebraska Family Dentistry, our team of caring professionals are committed to providing you with a comfortable and positive dental experience. Our goal is to partner with you to help you achieve and maintain optimal dental health throughout your lifetime.”
You can schedule with this Northeast Lincoln, NE dentist online 24/7 at her Northeast Lincoln Location of Nebraska Family Dentistry. This Lincoln, NE dentist serves the local communities close to Northeast Lincoln Family Dentistry in Waverly, Davey, Greenwood, Walton, Eagle, Elmwood, Weeping Water, Ceresco, and more.
I am looking forward to meeting you soon, Dr. Kelsey Sullivan.
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Annual Plan Benefits
For Lincoln Dental Plans
All X-rays
Comprehensive Exam
2 Emergency Exams
2 Routine Dental Cleanings (Every 12 Months)
25% Discount on Select Procedures
LDP offers discounts on the following procedures:
Regular Cleanings
Deep Cleanings
Periodontal Maintenance
Dental Crowns (Excludes Cosmetic Crowns)
White Fillings
Root Canals
Professional Teeth Whitening
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Northeast Lincoln Family Dentistry is a proud member of Nebraska Family Dentistry. We’re one of multiple NFD locations, some of which are even open on weeknights and weekends for your convenience.
Each NFD team member is trained to go above and beyond to keep our patients calm and comfortable, so you can expect the same exceptional care from all of our sister locations.