Root Canal
What Is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment, commonly known as a root canal, is an endodontic treatment option that allows your dentist to remove infected pulp and decay from the dental pulp chamber and tooth roots. Infection in the tooth roots occurs when bacterium enters the tooth through cracks and cavities. Once the pulp becomes infected, antibiotics are often not enough to eliminate the infection, and a root canal is needed.
See How a Root Canal is Performed
When bacteria enters the tooth through untreated cracks or cavities, a root canal may be necessary to remove the infected pulp and decay. A small opening is created in the tooth to allow your doctor to remove the infection. The root canals are then reshaped, and the tooth is filled and sealed.
Patient-Centered and Personalized Care Contact our Aiken dentists today
If you are experiencing signs of an infection, root canal treatment may seem scary. At the Center for Dentistry in Aiken, SC, there's nothing to fear—we are here to help every step of the way.
Our highly trained dentists, Talmadge D. Wilkins and Leah B. Wilkins, as well as our skilled staff, will go the extra mile to ensure you are completely comfortable in our care. While many dental offices treat patients on a tooth-by-tooth basis, we realize that each individual is unique, each with their own set of goals, life circumstances, values, opinions, and different wants and needs from their dental care. We get to know our patients' personal histories, expectations, present conditions, and future needs in order to develop personalized treatment plans together.
If you are experiencing symptoms of a root canal infection and want to find out if root canal treatment is right for you, contact us using our online form or call us today.
"I was so impressed with the professional service I received. For the first time ever, the procedure was completely painless - and it was a root canal! I appreciated Dr Wilkens explaining what he was doing and why. I would recommend this practice without hesitation. My second visit was just as professional as the first. Crowns are made in house and the fit was perfect. Thanks Dr. Wilkens and staff!" Connie Scholz, 2021
Aren't Root Canals Painful?
Many patients believe that root canals are one of the more painful dental treatments, but this is a misconception. In reality, root canal treatment can actually relieve any pain or discomfort you may have because of infection. A root canal can also restore your oral function, as some patients report pain when chewing and eating. Before your root canal treatment begins, your dentist will thoroughly numb the area. If you are uncomfortable at any point, let your dentist know so they can address your discomfort quickly. Our Aiken dental practice strives to ensure your complete comfort during treatment.
The Root Canal Treatment Timeline
Contrary to popular belief, a root canal is not a painful procedure. In fact, root canals aim to relieve pain and discomfort associated with infected teeth.
Have questions about the root canal treatment process? Don't hesitate to send us a message.
Can't I Just Get the Tooth Pulled?
When you are missing teeth, your jaw can quickly begin to deteriorate due to a lack of stimulation the tooth roots once provided. Even a single missing tooth can cause this. A root canal allows your dentist to preserve the tooth structure and restore your oral health by eliminating the infection. An extraction is only recommended if the tooth is severely decayed or damaged and there is no option to save it. Thankfully, if your tooth does require extraction, dental implants and restorations are available to restore your oral health, function, and appearance.
You Can Keep Your Root Canal Affordable Through Insurance, Financing, and Our VIP Club
Because root canals are medically necessary, it's likely that your insurance will cover at least part of your treatment. We work with most insurance providers to help reduce or even eliminate the out-of-pocket costs associated with your root canal.
Don't have dental insurance? We accept CareCredit®, a financing option that lets you split your costs into manageable monthly payments.
You can also consider becoming a member of our VIP Club. This is a monthly subscription plan that allows patients to get preventative care such as cleanings, dental exams, and X-rays, as well as discounts on other dental treatments they may need. Adult members save an average of approximately $300 each year.
Call us to learn more about this valuable plan or to discuss insurance and financing. You can also join our VIP Club online today.
Hear From Satisfied Aiken Patients Who Left Us 5-Star Reviews
Mike Cissell
Aiken, SC
2023
Center for Dentistry is an excellent group! I've been a patient here since moving to Aiken, and have been absolutely impressed at the high quality care during each visit. The staff are all amazing, and both Dr Tal and Dr Leah are wonderful! I recommend them to anyone seeking a high quality caring dental practice!
View on GoogleLarry Verburg
Aiken, SC
2023
Five stars: The dentists at the Center are perfectionists. My family and I have used them for our dental needs since they opened, and we have always been quite pleased with the results.
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