Root Canal Therapy – Fairfax, VA

Factors That Can Affect Root Canal Cost

So, how much is a root canal? Well, it depends. There are several factors that can affect the price of a root canal treatment and every patient is unique. Here are some of the cost factors you should be aware of:

• Which Tooth Needs Treatment: This is the biggest factor when determining the price of your root canal treatment. In general, front teeth are much easier to reach and have fewer roots to treat, making them less expensive.
• The Cost of Restoration: After your root canal, you’ll most likely need a crown over the affected tooth to protect it.
• Whether You Need Multiple Treatments: If you need more than one treatment during your visit, it will also add to the cost of your procedure.

Is it Cheaper to Pull My Tooth?

In general, yes. And it can be tempting to ask for an extraction instead of going through with a root canal, especially if you’re in pain. However, saving your tooth offers more advantages for your oral health than removing it. Missing teeth make it harder to chew, speak, and socialize freely.

In addition, once you lose a healthy tooth your jawbone in the area begins to deteriorate, causing your teeth to move out of alignment. Over time, without replacement, your bite may become negatively affected, causing jaw pain and more dental problems. This is why our team firmly believes in saving a tooth with a root canal whenever possible.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Root Canals?

Under most dental plans, root canal treatment is considered a major procedure which is normally covered from 50 to 80 percent. However, not all dental plans have the same coverage options, and you’ll need to meet your yearly deductible before your insurance will begin to pay out for your treatment. If you’re unsure where you stand as far as coverage, don’t worry. Our team will help you go over your information before your procedure begins.

Other Options for Making Root Canal Treatment Affordable

If you don’t have insurance coverage, there’s no need to worry. Our team understands that it can be difficult for many to afford it, especially if it’s not offered as a workplace perk. So, for qualifying patients, we accept CareCredit financing that will allow you to get the treatment you need now. With CareCredit, you can finance all your procedures up front and pay off the balance each month in small, low-to-no-interest installments.

So, don’t let your finances come between you and receiving treatment that can vastly improve your oral health and save your tooth. If you need help, call our team and schedule a consultation. We’re more than happy to work with you to keep your mouth healthy and your smile intact!

How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Root Canal?

While the recovery time after a root canal varies, many individuals can expect to resume work or school the day following the procedure. For those with physically demanding jobs, taking the next two or three days off is recommended to aid healing. Avoid vigorous exercise during this time as it may prolong recovery by diverting blood from the treated site.

Expect some soreness in your mouth for a few days. Make sure you follow your dentist's instructions for prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications. Stick to soft foods and chew on the opposite side of the treated tooth. Maintain regular oral hygiene practices but be gentle around the treated area. If your pain persists or worsens after about three days, or if there are signs of infection (i.e., fever or swelling) contact us right away!

Can I Take Antibiotics Instead of Getting a Root Canal?

No, taking antibiotics alone is not a substitute for getting a root canal. Antibiotics are effective in treating bacterial infections in various parts of the body, but cannot reach the pulp of a tooth. The bloodstream, through which antibiotics travel, does not extend to the tooth pulp. As such, antibiotics alone cannot eliminate an infection within the tooth.

If the pulp of a tooth is infected, the ideal solution is root canal treatment. This procedure directly addresses the infected pulp, eliminating the need for antibiotics. Attending a consultation with your dentist is incredibly important to determine the best course of action for addressing a tooth infection.

What Happens If You Wait Too Long for a Root Canal?

If you wait too long for a root canal, the consequences can be serious. Unlike other parts of the body, teeth cannot heal themselves. A tooth infection will not improve without proper intervention like root canal treatment. It's crucial to schedule a root canal as soon as recommended by your dentist.

Delaying treatment may lead to temporary pain relief, which is often misunderstood as improvement, but it actually indicates nerve damage. Waiting too long increases the risk of the infection spreading to the jaw, gums, neighboring teeth, or even to the rest of your body, causing systemic issues. Prompt root canal treatment is essential to prevent further complications and ensure the health of your smile.

Are Root Canals Safe During Pregnancy?

Absolutely! There are rumors that may suggest otherwise, but these have been debunked by the American Association of Endodontists (AAE). The safety concerns are mainly due to faulty research conducted nearly a century ago.

Root canals have an impressive success rate of around 95 percent, with teeth often lasting a lifetime after the procedure. Of course, like any medical intervention, there is a very small chance of some bacteria remaining in the tooth post-treatment and potentially causing reinfection. Though the odds are minimal, it's important to communicate any unexpected symptoms like intense swelling, pain, or fever to your dentist.