Let’s be honest… Root canals have a scary reputation! As a result, it remains one of the most feared
procedures. However, there’s really nothing to be scared of (and we aren’t just saying that as your
dental team). The truth is that this restorative dental treatment is
designed to alleviate pain by eliminating the infection, and many patients find the process to be no more
cumbersome than a standard filling. So, if you’re struggling with a persistent toothache or any other abnormal
dental symptoms, don’t wait – schedule a consultation with us today!
Do You Need Root Canal Treatment?
Although there are some cases where patients don’t experience any pain, it’s more common for the
following abnormal symptoms to arise:
- Tender, red, or bleeding gums
- Persistent dental sensitivity
- Pain when biting down
- A pimple-like bump on the gums
- Dark discoloration on the tooth in question
If you begin to experience one or more of these warning signs of trouble, don’t wait – call us ASAP
to
schedule an emergency exam.
The Root Canal Process
Whether we’re treating one tooth or several teeth, the first step of the treatment process is always the
same:
numbing your mouth. Then, we will isolate the tooth and drill a small hole in the enamel so we can access the
inner
layers. Next, we will carefully and meticulously remove the diseased and damaged tissue before sanitizing the
area
and sealing it with a biocompatible dental material. The final step is to secure a dental crown over the tooth
to
restore its strength while also protecting it from further harm.
The Benefits of Getting a Root Canal
As we mentioned above, root canals are nothing like their scary reputation. In fact, there are several benefits
that
come with this emergency dental treatment, including:
- The procedure is painless thanks to powerful numbing agents
- Eliminating the infection can save your tooth from needing to be extracted
- The results will look and feel lifelike due to custom restorations
- The entire treatment process can usually be completed in just two appointments
So, if you suspect that you need a root canal, don’t take the “wait and see” approach. Instead,
give us a call and schedule an appointment. The sooner you do, the sooner one of our talented dentists can
determine
if that’s the case.
Understanding the Cost of Root Canals

We cannot determine the cost of root canal treatment in Baltimore without conducting an initial consultation. Since each case is different, we must examine the severity of the situation and determine how extensive the procedure will be. After compiling our findings and crafting a proposed treatment plan to review with you, we will then deliver a more reliable estimate so that you can begin to prepare your budget.
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Factors That Can Affect Root Canal Cost
No two root canals cost the same; the reason is that many factors must be considered, including:
- The type of injured tooth and its location – Those located toward the back (molars) have more roots, so they often take longer to treat.
- Additional restorative treatments – Most root canals require customized dental crowns to help protect vulnerable teeth. This will be factored into the total amount.
- The severity of your case – It’s unlikely that we will need to refer you outside our office for extensive treatment; however, if it’s necessary, the cost may be higher.
Is It Cheaper to Pull My Tooth?
Many patients assume that removing a diseased tooth is the better and more cost-effective option; however, this is not always the case. At Baltimore Dental Arts, we will do everything we can to save your natural teeth, so if a root canal can be performed, you can expect this will be the route we take. The only time we might recommend tooth extraction is if all other forms of treatment are not considered suitable for your situation.
Removing a tooth requires replacing it, which means additional costs. Not only will you need to pay for the restoration or prosthetic you receive (i.e., dental bridge, denture, or dental implant), but you’ll also be responsible for maintaining it over the years. This includes any relining, replacement, adjustment, or adhesive that is needed to extend its lifespan.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Root Canals?
When you are reviewing your dental insurance plan, you will notice that most companies do include root canal treatment as part of their available coverage. Depending on the plan, it may be considered a major or minor restorative service, which means your insurer will likely pay 40-80% of the total costs. Knowing what to expect before agreeing to start treatment is smart, though, especially since you will be required to pay the full amount upfront before receiving a reimbursement from your insurance company. You can count on our team at Baltimore Dental Arts to work on your behalf, filing all necessary claims to make sure you get the maximum amount in the end.