Frequently Asked Endodontic Questions – Reno, NV

We’re Ready to Address Your Concerns

Root canal therapy and other endodontic treatments are often misunderstood, and our team at Summit Endodontics is here to clear things up. Below, you can find the answers to some of the most common questions that our team members hear from our patients. If you don’t see the answer you’re looking for, don’t be afraid to contact us directly.

What Exactly Does “Endodontics” Mean?

Endodontics is a specific branch of dentistry that focuses on treating the pulp and other tissues inside of the teeth and around their roots. It primarily involves root canal therapy, but it can extend to other procedures as well. The term comes from two Greek words: “endo,” meaning “inside,” and “odont,” meaning “teeth.”

Do Root Canals Hurt?

We assure you that thanks to the state-of-the-art technology that we use, root canals are nothing to worry about, despite the rumors you may have heard. Before your procedure, we’ll completely numb your mouth with local anesthetic, and we also offer multiple forms of sedation to further reduce discomfort and anxiety. Not to mention, getting a root canal often permanently relieves a toothache that was caused by infection or decay.

How Do I Know If I Need a Root Canal?

Severe, persistent pain in a tooth is by far the most common sign that a root canal is necessary, but it’s not the only one. If a tooth is extremely sensitive to hot and cold stimuli, or the tooth or its nearby gums are discolored, you might need a root canal. Of course, the only way to know for sure is to come in and have Dr. Adams examine the tooth himself.

Do You Offer Sedation?

Yes! Dr. Adams can provide several IV sedation to make your anxieties about your treatment melt away. In fact, Dr. Adams is currently the only doctor in all of northern Nevada who offers IV sedation for root canals.

What Happens If I Don’t Get a Root Canal?

Unfortunately, damaged or infected teeth cannot heal on their own. Without treatment, the tooth will only get worse as time goes on. Delaying a root canal could leave the tooth so irreparably damaged that it must be extracted instead. That’s why we highly recommend getting a root canal taken care of as soon as you learn that you need one.

How Successful Are Root Canals?

The vast majority of patients who have undergone root canal therapy have gone on to keep the natural tooth in question for many years to come, or possibly even for the rest of their lives! The procedure is quite safe and successful. With our advanced cone beam / CT scanning technology, we’re able to plan the treatment in even greater detail, ensuring a higher success rate.

Do You Accept Dental Insurance?

Yes, we’re proud to be an insurance-friendly practice. We accept many of the leading dental plans, and our team can even file your claims on your behalf. That way, you won’t have to worry about paperwork; instead, you can just relax and enjoy the savings!