Root Canal Treatment – Norman, OK

Saving Your Teeth from Infection

Close up model of a tooth showing the root canals inside of it

When extensive damage compromises the internal structure of a tooth, root canal treatment in Norman can save the tooth from extraction. With modern tools and sedation dentistry, root canal treatment is more comfortable than in the past. At the dental office of Bobby J. Carmen, DDS, we are often able to perform root canal treatment in a single visit to our dental office. You can trust us with your smile. Call today to reserve your root canal consultation with Norman dentist Dr. Bobby J. Carmen. Patients from Norman, Moore, the University of Oklahoma, Central Oklahoma, and beyond visit us for quality dental care.

Why Choose Bobby J. Carmen, DDS for Root Canal Treatment?

  • Same-Day Emergency Dental Appointments
  • Highly Trained, Personable Dentist
  • State-of-the-Art Dental Technology

What Is a Root Canal?

Animated dental tool entering a tooth to perform root canal treatment in Norman

Root canals refer to the internal structures of the tooth that house the pulp or "nerve." When a tooth is growing, the canals bring nutrients to the tooth and carry away waste. Root canal treatment is necessary when a crack or break penetrates the inside of the tooth, and the canals fill with bacteria. During root canal treatment, Dr. Carmen cleans out the canals and replaces the diseased pulp with a biologically inert substance. He may also top the treated tooth with a crown to restore strength.

Why Are Root Canals Necessary?

Woman with toothache talking to her dentist

The most common reason patients need a root canal is decay that accesses the inner layers of the teeth, called the pulp. Within the pulp, the nerve system of the tooth runs through the tooth roots and into the gum tissue. When tooth decay, dental cracks, or facial trauma injure the pulp and nerve tissue, the result can be severe toothache or dental sensitivity.

In order to preserve healthy tooth structure and function, we may need to perform a root canal, removing the damaged pulp and nerve tissue and protecting the repaired tooth using a dental crown fitted over the top of the tooth. In most cases, root canals allow us to preserve a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted, ensuring you leave our dental office with a healthy, functional smile.

Do Root Canals Hurt?

Young woman grinning in dental chair after root canal treatment

The purpose of root canal treatment is to alleviate the pressure caused by the infection within the tooth. During the procedure, Dr. Carmen can provide sedation to minimize discomfort. Some patients experience mild swelling after root canal treatment, which can be treated with over-the-counter medication.

How Much Does Root Canal Treatment Cost?

Dental X ray showing a tooth that needs root canal treatment

The cost of your root canal treatment plan will depend on a number of factors, including all of the following:

  • The use of sedation dentistry to maintain comfort and relaxation throughout the treatment process.
  • The need for antibiotic treatment and other more advanced procedures to prepare and repair the tooth.
  • The materials used to craft the dental crown that protects and strengthens the root canal treated tooth.

Payment Options for Root Canal Treatment

Dental team member showing a form to a patient

For most people, dental insurance will cover a portion of the cost of root canal treatment. We can also partner with third party financiers to offer low or no interest payment plans to ensure your root canal treatment fits into your budget.