Although root canals are a standard and safe dental procedure, they have a reputation for being painful. While a root canal may not be comfortable, it isn't likely to cause pain. In fact, you'll probably feel a lot better after the root canal, especially if you have been dealing with a troublesome tooth. If you are preparing to get a root canal, here are three things that you should know before the procedure.

It Alleviates Pain

Did you know that the center of a tooth is called the pulp? The pulp contains nerve tissues, blood vessels, and other cells. When there is a deep cavity or damage to your tooth, it can be excruciating when it reaches the pulp. This is where root canals come in handy. During a root canal, your dentist removes the infected or damaged pulp, fills the hollow area left behind, and then fills the tooth or adds a crown. Root canals are pain-relieving procedures, and you will notice a significant difference once it is over. 

It Requires Little Down Time

While a root canal will offer pain relief, you may need some over-the-counter pain medications during the recovery process. The good news is that little to no downtime is necessary after a root canal procedure. Most patients can go about their typical routine immediately after a root canal, and a full recovery will take only a few days. A root canal procedure is often done over one or two appointments with your dentist. Most root canal treatments will require anywhere from 90 minutes to 3 hours from start to finish. 

How Much It Costs

The last thing you want after a root canal is a surprise when you get your bill. While your dental insurance will likely cover some portion of your treatment, you will still be on the hook for at least a part of the bill. Without insurance, you could be on the hook for a few hundred, even upwards of $1,000 for a root canal treatment. Root canals for molars cost the most, while ones for a front tooth cost the least. Before you head to the dentist for your procedure, make sure you get an estimate for the total cost.

If you are about to get a root canal, there are a few things to know. First, while root canals may have a painful reputation, you will experience pain relief after the procedure. Second, root canals typically take one or two appointments and require little downtime. Finally, the cost of a root canal can be steep, especially without insurance. Make sure you know how much you will pay before the procedure.

For more information, reach out to a dentist's office, such as Laveen Smiles.

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