Save Your Tooth and Relieve Discomfort
If you allow a cavity to go untreated, bacteria will eventually penetrate the pulp inside your tooth, resulting in a painful infection that can worsen and spread. A root canal is a dental surgical procedure for removing the infected tooth tissue and filling the cavity, stopping the spread of the infection, and saving the tooth.
Root canals are virtually painless and provide immediate relief from the discomfort caused by infection.
There are several signs that you may need a root canal:
- Sensitivity to hot and cold
- Severe toothache
- Red or swollen gums near the tooth
- Discoloration of the tooth
- An abscess (or pimple) on the gums
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What to Expect During a Root Canal
A root canal is a straightforward procedure usually completed in only one or two trips to the office. Here is how we go about it:
Diagnosis and Treatment Plan
Before starting your root canal treatment, your dentist will need to find the exhaust cause of your discomfort. We’ll begin by taking an x-ray of your tooth and the surrounding bone. If there is significant inflammation, we’ll prescribe antibiotics to reduce swelling before operating.
Preparing the Tooth
First, we numb the infected area with a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort during the root canal. Once we’ve confirmed that the area is sufficiently numbed, we’ll begin by drilling a small access hole into the tooth. We’ll then remove the infected tissue and clean and disinfect the tooth.
Sealing the Tooth
In cases of severe infection, we will apply medicine to the infected area before sealing the tooth with a temporary filling until the next appointment. But in most cases, once we’ve removed the infected tissue and cleaned the tooth, we’ll apply a permanent dental filling before sealing the tooth.
The Cost of a Root Canal in Chattanooga
The cost of a root canal in Chattanooga can vary depending on several factors. With a typical insurance plan, expect to pay around $200 to $500+ out of pocket. After an oral exam, we would be happy to provide you with an accurate quote for your insurance company so you can find out your actual out-of-pocket costs. Without insurance, expect to pay anywhere from $600 to $1200+ for this treatment.
The actual cost of your root canal will depend on the following factors:
- The severity of the infection
- The location of the infection
- The health of the surrounding teeth and gums
- Complications that may require more time or a delicate and experienced touch
Remember– no dental practice can provide an accurate quote online or over the phone. Every patient’s dental condition is different, so it’s important to come into our Chattanooga dental office for a consultation with a dentist who can evaluate your unique situation and provide you with all your treatment options for your consideration.
Financing Options:
Your mouth is one of the most important investments that you can make in yourself. Many of our patients find it easier to break up the investment in their mouth into monthly payments. As such we work with Care Credit and Alphaeon to help. There are options ranging from 0% interest for 6 months, up to 60-month terms.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sue Baucom
I have always had excellent care at Shallowford Smiles. Everyone is very friendly and makes me feel comfortable. They all know what they are doing and are very good at letting me know what they are doing. I appreciate the text reminders of my appointments also. I can highly recommend Shallowford Smiles and Dr. Wilkerson to everyone.
Rhonda Atkins
Dr. Brian Wilkinson has been my dentist for the past 8 years. He is absolutely the very best. Caring and has always been available to help me and my husband during several emergencies. He is always thanking his staff for their work while assisting him. He is so appreciative of them and does an amazing job. Great smile too.
Charles Akin-Vorst
Great staff with the highest quality care in Chattanooga. The staff is always welcoming and happy to answer any and all questions. The only time I’ve had to wait in the waiting room was when I was early for my appointment and they were right in time. Even then, the waiting area is very comfortable with a TV, WiFi, complimentary coffee and drink station, and comfortable seating. I’ve had extensive periodontal work done there and the entire experience was top-notch. I wouldn’t recommend any other dental care facility in town over Dr. Brian.
