Dental Tips
What Is An Abscessed Tooth?
Bacterial infection can cause a lot of problems, especially when it comes to our teeth. A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus and infection that
September 26, 2023
Decades ago, if a tooth had a diseased nerve, it would need to be pulled. However, with the development of the root canal procedure, in most cases, especially those caught early enough, all or part of that tooth can now be saved. While the root canal procedure has often been associated with some negativity and discomfort, it is a vital procedure in saving a tooth. Importantly, as technology has progressed the modern day root canal is much different than one you could have gotten a few decades ago. Read on to learn more about root canals, when you need them, insurance coverage, and more. If you live in Greater Boston and would like to see a dentist, please give us a call.
The outermost layer of a tooth is the enamel, beneath it is dentin and then the pulp. Pulp runs like a thread down the tooth and provides nutrients to the tooth. Decay that originates here or spreads via a cavity can lead to infection and the pulp can die. The longer the infection goes untreated the worse the damage can be. This can eventually lead to severe toothaches, tooth loss, and other major complications. The process of a root canal involves removing the infected/diseased pulp, cleaning out the canal and then sealing the canal to protect the remaining tooth material. A dentist either will add a filling or a dental crown depending on the amount of tooth that was removed during the process.
Like with needing a dental filling, the best way to find out that you need a root canal is at your dental appointment. The earlier the signs of a root canal or cavity are found the better. However, if you haven’t been going to your routine dental exams and have been receiving dental x-rays, some common symptoms of a root canal include severe pain when biting or chewing, damage to the tooth (chips/cracks), lingering sensitivity to temperature, swollen gums, and deep decay of the gums. Again, we cannot stress this enough. The best way to both prevent a root canal from being necessary or to treat a root canal is to have these signs found out by a dentist at a preventative appointment before the problem is so severe you have to go to a dentist.
Insurance coverage varies from plan to plan. That said, a root canal is often considered a medically necessary appointment. Because of this, many oral plans provide full or partial coverage. That said, if you are unsure of your benefits, we recommend checking your plan details or giving our office a call. We can help you understand your bill by looking into your coverage. Masshealth does provide coverage for root canal treatments but not on the third molars (wisdom teeth). If you are worried about how to pay for necessary dental care, we would like to help. Even for people uninsured or with insurance that doesn’t cover the procedures they need, we provide payment options including financing.
All Pro Dental is a family dental practice located in Revere. We see patients from Boston, Lynn, Everett, and many of the other surrounding towns in the area. We work with patients of all ages on everything from the standard dental care to solving dental problems. We cannot stress enough how important it is that all patients see a dentist twice a year. Even with perfect diet, oral care, and genetics, nothing is ever going to beat seeing your dentist. On one side, your dentist can provide a cleaning and a variety of treatments that protect your teeth like sealants. On the other side, the exam and x-rays can ensure that any problems are found before symptoms even start to present.
That said we are here to help. If you already have a crown or dental bridge and need it repaired/replaced, or you are experiencing a toothache or another dental injury, please contact our office. Our team would be happy to help address any dental issues you might be facing.
You should visit the dentist twice a year for a teeth cleaning and examination to ensure your mouth is in good health. At All Pro Dental, our goal is to make sure you are comfortable throughout your routine appointment. We also believe that dental cleanings should be affordable for all, which is why we accept a variety of different payment methods. Ready to improve your oral health and work towards a happier, healthier smile? Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
At All Pro Dental we understand that for many children (and some adults) the dentist can bring on certain anxieties. That is why we work hard to provide a dental space that comforting and educational. We want you and your families to feel confident in your dental procedures and to learn more about dental health when you visit us.
No, whether or not you need a dental crown or dental filling after a root canal is determined based on the amount of tooth that has to be removed during the procedure. This can be impacted by a variety of factors including which tooth was affected, the size/shape of the tooth, etc.
Yes, root canals are a procedure that is covered under the MassHealth plans for patients above and below 21 years of age. We recommend visiting the MassHealth website for more information on dental services and coverage.
Modern root canal procedures are designed to limit discomfort during and after the procedure. In fact, if a tooth ache is what brought you into the dentist office, you will likely feel relief after a root canal procedure. That said it is common for a tooth to feel sensitive especially if there was pain or an infection prior to the. treatment. Over the counter medication is often recommended to treat pain. Otherwise, follow your dentist’s instructions and advice regarding post-care.
It is recommended that patients eat soft foods that don’t require chewing after a root canal. Decreasing pressure on the treated tooth can prevent discomfort. Foods like eggs, applesauce, smoothies, and other soft foods are often common choices. Immediately after the procedure your dentist might recommend a window of time where you don’t eat as the numbness wears off. This prevents you from accidentally biting your tongue or cheek which might be numb after the procedure.
Bacterial infection can cause a lot of problems, especially when it comes to our teeth. A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus and infection that
A dental bridge is a common solution for a lost tooth or a group of lost teeth. With good dental habits and dental visits, a bridge
One thing everyone wants to avoid when at the dentist’s office is hearing that they will need to have dental fillings. Cavities can be a serious
Each dental exam will asses your oral health and provide you with a thorough cleaning for an even better smile!
We’re able to diagnose and treat cavities quickly and with a range of options.
Our professionals are trained to take the utmost care of our most precious patients.
When gum disease occurs, we work tirelessly alongside our patients to fight it.
Monday: 10:30am – 6:30pm
Tuesday: 10:30am – 6:30pm
Wednesday: 10:30am – 6:30pm
Thursday: 10:30am – 6:30pm
Friday: 10:30am – 6:30pm
Sat-Sun: Closed
