Root Canal Therapy – Dallas, TX

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a restorative procedure that is necessary when tooth decay or damage reaches the inner layer of the tooth called the pulp. The nerve system of the tooth is housed within the dental pulp, so when decay and damage reaches this layer of the tooth, the result can be a severe toothache or dental sensitivity. Root canal therapy allows us to relieve this pain, restore the full form and function of the tooth, and prevent unnecessary tooth loss.

How do I know if I Need a Root Canal?

The only way to be certain you’re in need of a root canal is to visit your dentist. However, by knowing the warning signs of root canal infection, you may be able to receive treatment more quickly. The following are the most frequently experienced early warning signs associated with root canals:

• Severe toothache - can be a constant dull throb or sharp pain when biting down
• Dental sensitivity – when the tooth is exposed to heat or cold, lingering tooth pain will occur
• Tooth discoloration - typically, the tooth will darken in spots near the gum line
• Gum infection or inflammation - will be centered around one tooth and may appear as swelling, darkening color, or small, pimple-like sores on gum tissue

What Should I Expect During Root Canal Therapy?

Root canals are often treated as dental emergencies. Without regular preventive maintenance, a small cavity or minor chip may develop into a serious root canal infection. When this happens, Dr. Barnett encourages patients to give her a call right away no matter the time or day of the week so that she can get you in touch with a trusted specialist. Once we’ve determined you need a root canal, the procedure itself is relatively straightforward. They will begin by numbing the area and drilling a small access hole from the top of the tooth into the innermost pulp layer. Then, they extract the damaged pulp and nerve tissue. The tooth is refilled with a substance called gutta percha that functions similarly to the extracted pulp tissue. Next, the access hole is resealed. In most cases, they will also recommend a dental crown be placed to protect and strengthen the root canal treated tooth. In rare cases, we may need to schedule additional visits to treat infection in the gums surrounding the tooth or inside the tooth itself.

Understanding the Cost of Root Canal Treatment

The cost of root canals in Dallas can vary based on a number of factors, but it’s best not to put the procedure off if you learn that you need it. Ultimately, that could result in the need for more costly interventions down the road. Our team at Mariya Barnett, DDS will help you navigate your insurance benefits, any financing options that you may be interested in, and do our best to ensure you receive timely care that fits your budget.

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Factors That Can Impact the Cost of Root Canals

There are a few different factors that can impact the cost of root canals, including:

• Where the affected tooth is located, like whether it’s a back molar. This can make the procedure more complex, which could incur a higher cost.
• While most root canals are performed in-office, there are certain cases in which visiting a specialist (endodontist) may be necessary. This can lead to a higher cost.
• Additional services, like dental sedation, will incur separate fees.

Is It Cheaper to Pull My Tooth?

While the cost of a tooth extraction may be less than root canal treatment, the long-term expenses associated with tooth loss are much higher. Once a tooth is extracted, in order to maintain good dental health and alignment, you’ll need to pay to replace the missing tooth. This cost alone could be much higher than root canal therapy.

On the other hand, you could opt to save your tooth with root canal treatment, requiring an up-front investment. However, with good at-home and professional preventive care and maintenance, many of our patients are able to continue enjoying their natural tooth for the rest of their lives.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Root Canal Treatment?

Dental insurance typically covers a portion of the cost of root canal treatment. Our practice accepts most PPO dental insurance plans, including Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna, Humana, MetLife, and more. We will file your insurance claim on your behalf to help maximize your benefits to the best of our abilities! We’ll also provide you with a cost estimate before you commit to treatment so you know how much you’ll be expected to pay out-of-pocket.

Other Options for Making Root Canals More Affordable

If you’re uninsured or your insurance leaves you with a high out-of-pocket expense, we also partner with CareCredit and Lending Club to offer additional financing. Our team can help you apply. Once approved, you’ll be able to choose either a 12-month or 24-month low interest plan that will help separate your cost into easy to manage monthly payments.

If you’re uninsured, our In-Office Membership Plan may also be a great option for you! Just pay a flat annual fee of $395 and receive all of your basic preventive care for the year as well as discounts on all other treatments. To learn more or sign up, don’t hesitate to call us!