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Root Canal Therapy – Woodbridge, CT

Save a Damaged Tooth from Extraction

Model of the inside of a tooth

When a tooth develops an infection in its sensitive innermost layer (called the dental pulp), you may experience a severe, throbbing toothache. In the past, teeth with this kind of damage would simply be removed, but thanks to root canal therapy in Woodbridge, CT, the team at New Haven Dental Group may be able to save such damaged teeth and help them regain their function and appearance. Our modern techniques and technology enable us to perform this procedure in a way that is as comfortable and efficient as possible.

Why Choose New Haven Dental Group for Root Canals?

Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?

Smiling man and woman

Problems with the dental pulp may arise due to longstanding decay or significant physical trauma. Here are some signs that root canal therapy may be necessary in your case:

Additionally, keep in mind that root canal therapy might be needed even if you are experiencing no obvious symptoms. It is wise to listen to treatment recommendations from your dentist in Woodbridge.

The Root Canal Process

Smiling patient at appointment for root canal therapy

If, after an examination, we determine that you are in need of root canal therapy, our team will numb your tooth. Depending on the circumstances, we may also administer sedation. Next, we will access the tooth’s interior and remove all of the infected tissue. We will then fill in the tooth with a material called gutta-percha before we rebuild it with a restoration. At first, you may have a temporary crown, which should be replaced later on with a permanent one. Most patients say the root canal procedure feels like getting a small filling. After you heal, your toothache should be completely gone.

The Benefits of Getting a Root Canal

Happy senior couple, enjoying the benefits of root canal therapy

Here are a few benefits that you may experience as a result of undergoing root canal therapy:

Understanding the Cost of Root Canals

Tooth model gripping several hundred-dollar bills

There are a few different factors that can influence the cost of a root canal. During your appointment, we will be able to provide you with a personalized price estimate. We will also talk to you about provisions that may make your treatment more affordable, such as insurance, financing, and the Essential Dental Plan.

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Factors That Can Affect Root Canal Cost

Illustration of cracked tooth that may need root canal therapy and a crown

A few factors that can have a bearing on root canal cost for Woodbridge patients include:

  • The location and type of tooth being treated. Generally speaking, molars are more challenging to perform root canal therapy on than front teeth. Hence, they tend to incur higher fees.
  • The overall difficulty of the case. We can perform most root canal treatments right here in our office, but in some cases, we must refer patients to an outside specialist, whose pricing structure may be different from our own.
  • Additional services. You are likely to need a crown following your root canal. This can add significantly to the total cost of your care.

Is It Cheaper to Pull My Tooth?

Extracted tooth displayed next to dental forceps

Initially, a tooth extraction costs less than root canal therapy. However, in the long run, removing a tooth may actually be the pricier option. That is because it is important to replace a missing tooth as soon as possible. Otherwise, you could face complications like dental drift or future tooth loss. Tooth replacement — or addressing the problems caused by a lack thereof — can cost quite a bit.

Conversely, root canal therapy is usually a one-time expense that provides many years of benefits. It is an excellent value that can preserve your natural smile.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Root Canals?

Finger pressing “dental insurance” key on keyboard

Most dental insurance policies do cover root canal therapy. It might be classified as either a minor or major service, meaning that as little as 40% or as much as 80% of its total cost might be covered. You will need to look at the details of your policy to learn how it applies. You can rely on our team to help you navigate your benefits and use them in the most advantageous way. We accept over 200 dental insurance plans!

Other Options for Making Root Canal Therapy Affordable

Calculator next to two toothbrushes

As an experienced emergency dentist, we know that patients often need a little help to afford their care. That is why we offer the following provisions:

  • Essential Dental Plan. This convenient discount plan can provide you with reduced fees on virtually all the treatments available in our office. Signing up is easy, and you can start using your benefits right away!
  • Financing through CareCredit. CareCredit is a third-party lender that provides low-interest and no-interest payment plans for medical and dental services. Most patients are qualified for credit, and the application process takes just a few minutes.

Would you like to learn more about root canal therapy and its cost? Our team would love to answer your questions! Get in touch with us today.

Root Canal FAQs

Cross-section of tooth showing its root canals

A root canal can be one of the best ways for our Woodbridge dental team to end a toothache and get a patient’s oral health back on track. If you suspect you could benefit from this treatment, we are ready to assist you. In the meantime, you may want to learn more about root canal therapy and what to expect from it. Read on below to learn the answers to some commonly asked questions, and do not hesitate to get in touch with us if you would like further explanation on anything you discover.

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

Patients heal at different rates. Generally, though, people are able to return to school or work the day after their root canal appointment. If your job requires a lot of physical labor, you may need to take some extra time off; exercise can slow down your body’s ability to heal.

You can expect some soreness to linger in your mouth for several days. This is normal and is usually easy to manage with over-the-counter pain medications. If you experience any severe or unusual side effects during your recovery, reach out to your dentist right away.

How Much Pain Is Normal After a Root Canal?

Root canal therapy itself is not painful. During the procedure, anesthesia and sedation should ensure that you feel little to nothing. After your appointment, though, the anesthesia and sedation will wear off. You can expect to experience some oral pain and sensitivity. This should be temporary. For most people, the discomfort wears off within a week or so.

You can keep your pain to a minimum by:

  • Taking pain relievers as necessary
  • Avoiding hard and tough foods
  • Getting adequate rest

If your pain does not begin to subside within three days or so, call your dentist for guidance.

What Should I Do Before a Root Canal?

Here are a few practical steps you can take before your appointment:

  • Eat a nutritious meal. You may not feel like eating immediately after your procedure, so filling up beforehand may be wise. However, if you will be sedated, you may be required to fast prior to your appointment.
  • Do not drink alcohol. Alcohol can interfere with the numbing medication used in dental procedures.
  • Take a pain reliever. This may reduce posttreatment soreness.
  • Get a good night's rest. Being well-rested can reduce anxiety related to your procedure and help your body to function optimally.

How Long Do Root Canals Last?

It is common for the results of root canal therapy to last throughout a patient’s lifetime. You can reduce the risk of further damage to your treated tooth by adhering to a thorough oral hygiene routine, regularly visiting your dentist, and protecting your mouth from physical trauma (for example, by wearing a mouthguard during sports).

Rarely, root canal therapy fails. This can occur weeks, months, or even years after the initial procedure. If you find yourself in this situation, you may need a procedure known as endodontic retreatment.

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Contact Us
Woodbridge
(203) 389-7080 3 Research Drive
Woodbridge, CT
Office Hours

8:00am – 5:00pm
8:00am – 5:00pm
8:00am – 5:00pm
8:00am – 5:00pm
8:00am – 5:00pm
8:00am – 12:00pm
*1st Saturday of the Month