Endodontics & Root Canal Treatment
Our dentists are experts at root canals and can repair and save your tooth if it has become severely damaged or infected. Schedule an appointment now at New You Dental Center.
Root Canal Treatment
A root canal is the most common endodontic treatment designed to save a tooth that has become infected or damaged at its core—the pulp. The pulp is the innermost part of the tooth, containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When it becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay, trauma, or cracks in the tooth, a root canal is often the best solution to preserve the natural tooth and prevent further complications. During the procedure, the infected or dead pulp is carefully removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned, disinfected, and then sealed to prevent future infection.
If you notice one of the below symptoms, it’s important to consult with a dentist to determine the need for a root canal:
- Persistent tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers even after the source is removed
- Discoloration or darkening of the tooth
- Swelling, tenderness, or a small, pimple-like bump on the gums near the affected tooth
If you need a root canal treatment, our dentists will start by numbing the area with local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. A dental dam is placed around the tooth to keep it dry. We then carefully access the tooth, remove the infected pulp, and clean the canals to eliminate any bacteria. The cleaned canals are filled and sealed to prevent future infection. To protect your tooth, we’ll place a temporary filling, and within a few weeks, you’ll return to get a crown or permanent filling. This final step is crucial because it strengthens the tooth, which can become brittle after a root canal. Some discomfort is normal after the procedure, but most patients feel better within a few days, and full recovery, including getting the crown, typically takes about two weeks.
Schedule Your Root Canal Treatment
Auburn Hills
4139 Baldwin Rd
Auburn Hills, MI 48326
Flint
4307 Miller Rd
Flint Township, MI 48507
Lansing
3201 E. Grand River, Suite E.
Lansing, MI 48912
Livonia
29475 Plymouth Rd.
Livonia, MI 48150
Southfield
30555 Southfield Rd.
Suite 310, Southfield, MI 48076
Treatment Cost
The cost of root canal treatment varies depending on your insurance plan, as each plan has different rates for treatments and covers various costs based on deductibles and other factors. At New You Dental Center, we are committed to ensuring that you fully understand the costs associated with your treatment. Our team will assist you in navigating your insurance coverage, filing claims, and exploring other financing options to make your care as accessible as possible.
Insurance and Payment Options
We work with most dental insurance providers and offer flexible payment options, including CareCredit financing, to make quality dental care accessible. New You Dental Centers also offers discounts for patients who have lost, are losing, or have no insurance at all. Call us for more information or visit this page:
Patient Education
What Happens After Treatment?
After your root canal treatment, it’s normal to experience some tenderness or mild discomfort for a few days as your body heals and adjusts. Over-the-counter pain relievers are usually effective in managing this. It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene and avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored with a permanent crown or filling.
Root Canal Recovery Time
Most patients recover from a root canal in a few days, though mild discomfort may last up to a week. Full recovery, including the final restoration, typically takes about two weeks, depending on individual healing and the scheduling of follow-up appointments for the crown or filling.
What Causes Root Canal?
Root canals are most commonly caused by deep decay or cavities that have reached the pulp of the tooth. Other causes include trauma to the tooth (such as a crack or chip), repeated dental procedures on the same tooth, or an untreated cavity. In some cases, a severe infection or abscess at the root of the tooth can also necessitate a root canal.
Can a Root Canal Be Done Through a Crown?
Yes, a root canal can be performed through an existing crown. The dentist will create a small access hole in the crown to reach the pulp chamber and perform the necessary treatment. After the root canal is completed, the access hole is typically sealed with a filling material. In some cases, if the crown is older or damaged, it might need to be replaced. The success rate of performing a root canal through an existing crown is generally very high, often comparable to performing the procedure on a tooth without a crown. The key to success lies in the precision of the dentist and the condition of the crown. If the crown is in good shape and properly sealed after the procedure, the tooth can remain healthy and functional for many years.
Is a Root Canal Painful?
Contrary to popular belief, a root canal procedure is not painful. In fact, it’s designed to relieve the pain caused by an infected or inflamed tooth. With modern anesthetics and techniques, most patients report feeling no more discomfort during a root canal than they would with a standard filling. After the procedure, there might be some mild soreness, but this is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain medications.
What Our Patients Are Saying
Completely painless root canal, artistic crown! Professional staff at all levels. Thank you!
Everyone in this dental office is extremely nice and caring. I recently had a root canal done and didn’t feel a thing. The dentist is top notch! Very gentle and keeps you updated on what she’s doing. I would highly recommend New You Dental in Auburn Hills!
Had a root canal and the team there did an amazing job! They made sure I was aware of everything going on. Most importantly I didn’t feel any discomfort. The doctor really took her time and made me feel comfortable. I would definitely recommend for quality dental care!
The doc was so comforting. My 7 year old had to get a root canal and was very nervous as you can imagine. She was super sweet and made him feel comfortable. Would highly recommend this place.
It's hard to get anything done during this virus...but yesterday I needed a root canal done and the great people there were able to fit me in, got the job done quickly, and got me out...skilled doctor, staff, and very competent front office...I would recommend them to anyone...good people and friendly service.
Schedule Your Consultation
Schedule your appointment now at one of our five dental clinics in Michigan: Auburn Hills, Flint, Lansing, Livonia, and Southfield.