When you hear the words "root canal," it's not uncommon to shudder with anxiety. After all, it's a dental procedure often linked to pain and discomfort. However, understanding what a root canal is, how it's performed, why you might need one, and whether insurance covers it can help demystify the process and alleviate some of the fears associated with it.
What is a root canal?
A root canal, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure designed to save a severely damaged or infected tooth. The inside of your tooth contains a soft tissue known as the pulp, which houses nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When this pulp becomes infected or damaged, it can cause excruciating pain and lead to other dental problems.
A root canal procedure is performed to remove the infected or damaged pulp, clean the inside of the tooth, and seal it to prevent future infection. This process helps preserve the tooth, alleviate pain, and promote oral health.
How is a root canal performed?
A root canal procedure is typically carried out in several steps:
- Diagnosis: Your dentist will first assess your tooth and take X-rays to determine the extent of the infection or damage.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to ensure you are comfortable during the procedure.
- Access Opening: Your dentist will create a small opening in your tooth to access the infected pulp.
- Pulp Removal: The infected or damaged pulp is carefully removed using specialized instruments.
- Cleaning and Shaping: The inside of the tooth is cleaned, disinfected, and shaped to accommodate the filling material.
- Filling: The cleaned space is filled with a biocompatible material, usually a rubber-like substance called gutta-percha, to seal the tooth.
- Restoration: A dental filling or crown is placed in, or on top of, the treated tooth to protect it from further damage.
Why you may need a root canal
There are several reasons why you might need a root canal:
- Severe Toothache: A persistent, severe toothache can indicate an infected or damaged pulp.
- Sensitivity to Hot or Cold: If you experience extreme, lingering sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages, it may be a sign of pulp damage.
- Swelling or Pimple on Gums: Swelling or a pimple-like bump on your gums near a tooth can be a sign of an abscess, which often requires a root canal.
- Darkening of the Tooth: A tooth that has become discolored can indicate pulp damage.
- Injury or Trauma: Physical trauma to a tooth can damage the pulp and necessitate a root canal.
- Deep Decay: Extensive tooth decay that reaches the pulp can lead to infection and pain.
Does insurance cover root canals?
The coverage for root canals and other dental procedures varies depending on your dental insurance plan. In general, dental insurance often covers a portion of the cost of a root canal, but the exact coverage will depend on your plan and the severity of your dental condition.
Delta Dental of Washington's Root Canal Coverage
We offer six plans for individuals and families. They all cover at least some of the cost of a root canal except for our basic plan.
Find more information on our plans here here.
See plans
In conclusion, a root canal is a dental procedure designed to save a severely damaged or infected tooth, providing relief from pain, and preserving oral health. While it may be associated with fear and discomfort, advancements in dental technology and anesthesia have made the procedure far more manageable than in the past. If you suspect you may need a root canal, consult your dentist for a thorough examination and a personalized treatment plan. Additionally, check with your dental insurance provider to understand your coverage and explore options for making the procedure more affordable. Remember, taking care of your oral health is essential for your overall well-being, and a root canal can be a crucial step in preserving your natural teeth.
