When it comes to dental procedures, you may find that you need a root canal at some point. Root canals are done in order to remove bacteria from an infected tooth root in order to prevent infection and save the tooth. During this procedure the infected root pulp is removed from the inside of the tooth and the area is cleaned, disinfected, and then filled and sealed. If you find yourself in need of a root canal, there are a few things that you should know. Here are three things to keep in mind.

How Long It Takes

The first thing that you should know when it comes to root canals is that they may require multiple appointments. During the first appointment, an access hole will be drilled into the tooth and the decayed pulp is removed. After this, the tooth may either be sealed that day or a week later depending on your tooth. During your next appointment, the filling will be added. In some cases, the tooth may be damaged enough to require a crown. The good news is that this procedure is 95 percent effective and can help preserve your natural tooth.

How Much It Costs

If you are in need of a root canal, the cost will vary depending on various factors. Mainly the extent of the damage to your tooth and whether or not you have dental insurance will play roles in the total cost. The location of the tooth will also have an impact on the total cost. On average a root canal on a front tooth will cost between $900 and $1,100. Root canals for a bicuspid or pre-molar tooth will also typically range between $900 and $1,100 while a root canal for a molar typically ranges between $1,000 and $1,300. Dental insurance typically covers somewhere between 40 and 80 percent of the costs.

Healing Time

How long it takes to get back to normal after a root canal will depend on how well you follow aftercare instructions and your overall health and healing ability. Typically you will experience mild to moderate pain for a few days after the procedure. This pain can be treated with over the counter pain medicines. During the time following your root canal, it's important to avoid hard foods that can lead to pain.

If you are getting a root canal, there are a few things to know. First, this procedure typically requires multiple appointments. Costs can vary depending on the tooth the root canal is being performed on and whether or not you have dental insurance. Healing time also varies but most feel back to normal within a few days.