FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
“Is a root canal painful?”
answer

Many endodontic procedures are performed to relieve the pain of toothaches caused by pulp inflammation or infection. With modern techniques and anesthetics, most patients report that they are comfortable during the procedure.


For the first few days after treatment, your tooth may feel sensitive, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. This discomfort can be relieved with over-the-counter or prescription medications. Follow your endodontist’s instructions carefully.


Your tooth may continue to feel slightly different from your other teeth for some time after your endodontic treatment is completed. However, if you have severe pain or pressure or pain that lasts more than a few days, call your endodontist.

“How much will my root canal cost me?”
answer

Our pricing varies depending on the type of root canal you are having. You can view our pricing list by visiting out fees page. Remember, our fees list only what we charge for each treatment, not necessarily the amount you'll pay. The amount you pay will be dependent on your insurance. Check with your insurance provider to see how much they will cover and ask if they'll give you an exact price.

“How long does the procedure take?”
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Generally it takes approximately an hour, but can vary depending on the difficulty of the case.

“How long will I be numb afterwards? ”
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Full sensation usually returns within 1-2 hours after your appointment.

“Will I have to miss work or school?”
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No, patients commonly resume their normal daily activities either the same day or the following day.

“If the tooth is dead why do I need a root canal?”
answer

The nerve inside the tooth may have necroses affording the patient relief from hot and cold sensitivity, but the bacterial byproducts from the dead nerve tissue leads to infection in the jaw which can lead to abscess, swelling, and severe discomfort.

“What should I expect after the procedure? ”
answer

It is normal for the tooth to be tender to touch or biting for up to 10 days.  In cases of an inflamed dental nerve, hot and cold sensitivity is immediately relieved.  Some swelling can occur which is managed with antibiotics and pain medication.  Patients are to promptly follow up with their general dentist after the procedure, usually within 30 days for a subsequent filling or crown. Avoid hard foods and candies until you have had the final restoration placed on the tooth.

“I have dental insurance, why do I have to pay anything?”
answer

We will file your claim for you, but the patient is responsible for the difference between what each individual insurer reimburses for a particular procedure.  For example, If the fee for a procedure is $1,000 and your dental insurance pays $700 for that procedure, the patient then has a co-pay of $300 when the procedure is performed.  Check with your dental insurance prior to the appointment date to confirm benefits.

“What forms of payment is accepted? ”
answer

We accept VISA, Mastercard, Discover, personal check, and cash.  We also participate with CareCredit, a financing organization that allows you to pay for your dental treatment over an interest free 12 month period.

NEED MORE INFO?

If you have more questions you can always email us here at the office. You can also follow the link to our source for more information on the field of endodontics.