Endodontics (Root Canal Therapy) and Canker Sores

Do you have questions about endodontics or post-op care after a root canal procedure? The answers to the following questions are answered in this post.

1. What is Endodontics?
2. Why would I need root canal therapy?
3. How much do root canal therapy/endodontic treatments cost?
4. I have canker sores after my root canal procedure (or tooth extraction), now what?
5. What care is needed after a root canal procedure or dental work?

For more information on endodontics, roots canals therapy, and other dental procedures, please check out: American Association of Endodontists or watch a video about the root canal from Show Your Grin Dental's page about Endodontics.

1. What is Endodontics?

In straightforward terms, Endodontics is a brand of dentistry that focuses on the soft tissues, or pulp, found inside your tooth. These soft tissues are inside the enamel and dentin (the hard exterior of a tooth) and contain nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues.

An endodontist is a dentist with training and expertise in treating this area of the tooth.

2. Why would I need root canal therapy?

When the soft tissues, or pulp, becomes inflamed, infected, or generally irritated, treatment in the root canal area may be required. The pulp of your tooth is susceptible to irritation or infection when teeth are chipped, cracked, or weakened. Even without visible signs, the pulp can become damaged from a variety of injuries.

The procedure often called a ‘root canal' is actually one of many endodontic procedures but has become the common name for these types of treatments. So if you're experiencing pain, discomfort, sensitivity, discoloration, tenderness, or other abnormal symptoms, you may need endodontic treatment.

For a ‘root canal', Dr. Sjogren, will remove the affected pulp, clean the inside of your tooth, and fill the space. There will be no negative effect on your tooth's long-term health from removing infected or damaged pulp and filling the space. In fact, it will only improve it!

Ultimately, the filled canal will have a crown or restoration placed on top for protection and comfort.

3. How much does root canal therapy/endodontic treatment cost?

The cost for root canal therapy and endodontic treatment depend on the condition of your tooth and what will be required to return it to a healthy state.

In general, root canal treatments on molars are more expensive than when performed on other teeth. However, treating a natural tooth is often less expensive than extracting the entire tooth and replacing it with a dental implant or bridge. So with endodontics it's a win-win!

Many insurance providers offer some coverage for endodontic treatments. The amount covered by your insurance depends on your individual insurance plan. We offer further Financial & Insurance information here and by calling your Olathe dentist for consultation, cost estimation, and explanation of insurance benefits, Show Your Grin Dental will help you receive the proper and affordable treatment you need.

4. I have canker sores after my root canal procedure (or tooth extraction), now what?

If you visited a dentist recently and a canker sore, or a smallish open sore, appears on your gums, you are not alone. These sores are a common condition that many people experience after a dental visit and usually disappear in 7-10 days.

During your dentist visit, your gums were rubbed and irritated, this may be the cause. Show Your Grin Dental works to make sure your visits are stress-free as possible. But, because these sores are not entirely understood medically, or why they appear, becoming familiar with some simple treatments available may be helpful.

To speed up healing and numb the irritation of those annoying (and possibly painful) sores, here are some options. A homemade solution of half water, half hydrogen peroxide as an oral rinse (and spit!) can be very soothing. Also, by applying Vitamin E oil to the sore, many people found relief and quicker healing times.

A variety of over-the-counter pain relievers are also available. These products may alleviate some of your discomfort from a canker sore. Please call Show Your Grin Dental in Olathe, KS if you have any questions regarding these products or about using them.

However you choose to treat canker sores, remember a few things:

• As much as 25% of the population experience canker sores.
• They are not contagious.
• The slight trauma to your gums after a dentist office visit may trigger them.
• The true cause of canker sores is unknown.
• Most canker sores heal within 7-10 days.
• Show Your Grin Dental is your favorite dentist in Olathe, KS.

5. What care is needed after a root canal procedure or dental work.

If your endodontic treatment goes smoothly, all that's needed is to keep up good oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and regular checkups/cleanings to keep your oral health in peak condition.

For more answers about endodontic treatments, insurance coverages, costs, and post-op care that hasn't been covered above, Show Your Grin Dental, your dentist in Olathe, KS, may be reached at (913) 469-8019, Monday - Thursday from 8:30am - 5:00pm. Happy Smiling!