What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal, or root canal therapy, is an endodontic procedure that removes infected or inflamed pulp inside your tooth. Root canal therapy allows the root canal to be cleaned, after which it is filled and sealed to eliminate the risk of further inflammation or infection.
Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?
If you experience severe tooth pain, it may be caused by an infection or inflammation that requires treatment with a root canal. If you have any of the following symptoms in conjunction with tooth pain, you should ask your dentist is root canal therapy is right for you:
- Abscessed tooth
- Darkening and / or swelling of gums
- Pimple-like bumps on gums around the affected tooth
- Sensitivity to hot and cold food and / or drinks
A root canal can help save your tooth so that an extraction is not necessary. After a root canal, you need to have a dental crown placed over the treated tooth to ensure it is protected.
How Much Does Root Canal Therapy Cost?
If you have dental insurance that covers root canal therapy, it may cost you as little as $200 or less out of pocket. The average cost of a root canal without dental insurance is around $1,000.
There are many factors that affect the cost, such as the skill and experience of your dentist, the extent of your treatment, the location of the tooth or teeth being treated, and fees that may not be included, such as for X-rays and / or a crown.
Where Should You Go for a Root Canal in Southern Maryland?
For root canal therapy, you need the best dentists in the area, and you can find them here at the practice of Dr. Joseph T. Luke, DDS, MS. We offer affordable, gentle, personalized dental care in Southern Maryland.
Contact us today at 301-475-8100 in Leonardtown or 410-326-6466 in Lusby, and let us care for your teeth, so you can smile without the pain of an infected tooth.