Dentistry is the known evaluation, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders and conditions of the soft and hard tissues of the jaw (mandible), the oral cavity, maxillofacial area and the adjacent.
An Interview with Dr. Edmund L. Rapp on Root Canal
Dr. Edmund L. Rapp is a dentist and has answered some common questions Bizymoms visitors have about Root Canal.
Q. What is root canal treatment?
A. Root canal treatment usually involves the removal of the tooth’s pulp, which is the soft tissue containing the blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue of a tooth. The pulp is responsible for the development of the tooth. Once fully developed, the pulp can be removed without affecting the longevity of the tooth.
Q. What does treatment involve?
A. Treatment involves anesthetizing the tooth with a local anesthetic followed by placement of a rubber barrier (rubber dam) over the tooth. An opening is made through the crown of the tooth to gain access to the root canals. The pulp is then removed from inside the root canals, and the canals are cleaned and shaped to accommodate the placement of a root canal filling material. A temporary filling is placed to close the opening made in the crown. Treatment may be completed in one appointment or in multiple appointments depending on the circumstances.
Q. What are the signs of needing endodontic treatment?
A. There are many reasons why a tooth may require root canal treatment. Tooth pain is a major reason but is not the only reason for why a root canal may be necessary. Your dentist will diagnose based upon patient complaint, a clinical examination and review of pertinent xrays.
Q. Are pain pills and antibiotics an acceptable substitute for root canal?
A. Pain pills and antibiotics are not an acceptable substitute for root canal treatment. Pain pills and antibiotics help alleviate the symptoms but do nothing to address the cause of the problem; which is either diseased or damaged pulp tissue.
Q. Are there alternative treatments for root canal?
A. By the time a root canal has been recommended, the only alternative is extraction of the tooth.
Q. How much will the procedure cost?
A. Cost of a root canal will vary depending on how many canals are involved and if the procedure is surgical or non-surgical. A general range to expect is $800-$1300.
Q. Will the tooth need any special care or additional treatment?
A. Following root canal treatment, a permanent restoration will be necessary. This usually involves a filling or a crown depending on the situation. A root canal treated tooth is not maintenance free as it is still susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease. Proper brushing and flossing are still very important.
Q. How can we contact Dr. Rapp if we have further questions?
A. Call: 317-247-9512 or visit our website: www.West10thDentalGroup.com
