How soon can I get in for an appointment?

Endodontic Associates of Clear Lake offers several appointment types, depending on the urgency of your need. We are an emergency-based practice—patients in extreme pain will be seen as soon as possible. For those with less urgent endodontic needs, it is often better to schedule an evaluation appointment in advance. Oftentimes our doctors are able to complete your evaluation and start treatment in the same visit.

 

I just had x-rays taken at my dentist’s office—why do I need to have images taken at your office? Can you get my x-rays from my dentist?

We take very specific x-rays of teeth not typically taken at your dentist’s office. These images are necessary to determine what type of treatment you may need. In order to provide the highest quality of care, our doctors may also recommend a 3D image called a Cone Beam Computed Tomography image (CBCT).  You can read more about this technology, and how it can save you time and radiation exposure, on our technology tab.  Dental radiation exposure is minimal; however, our doctors always strive to take the fewest number of images necessary to provide you with the best possible treatment.

 

How long will recovery take? Is it painful?

Every patient and procedure is different, however, recovery from a root canal generally only takes a few days to a week. You may feel soreness in the teeth or surrounding gum tissues in the days following a root canal procedure, especially when biting or pressing on the treated area. Most patients find that their soreness responds well to over-the-counter pain medications. In some cases, a prescription for pain may be required. Be sure to carefully follow the directions on any medications you take to avoid potentially harmful side effects.

 

How many visits will my root canal take?

Every treatment plan is unique and each patient responds differently to procedures. Most root canals are very predictable and are completed in one appointment. Due to the complexity of some cases, your procedure may require multiple visits. The good news is that the fee is the same, regardless of the number of visits needed. Our doctors always have your best interest at heart and will make treatment decisions that give your tooth the best long-term prognosis. 

 

I just had a new crown (cap) placed on this tooth by my dentist. Will I need to get a new crown when you are done?

In most instances, we can make a small access opening in the biting surface, preserving the existing crown.   When your treatment is complete, you may leave with a filling in this opening and will return to your dentist to have that area repaired.  We use special equipment to avoid damage to crowns. However, in rare instances, crowns can chip or fracture during treatment.  We constantly communicate with your dentist so that they are aware of our progress and when they will be needed.

 

Can you place a permanent filling to repair the opening?

In certain instances your dentist may ask us to place a permanent restoration in the tooth after your procedure.  This is often done if the restoration is in an unaesthetic area, under a crown, or if a post will need to be placed.  This decision is ultimately up to your general dentist as they are more familiar with your overall dental treatment plan.

 

How much does a root canal cost?

Just like other types of dentistry, procedure costs vary based on the current condition of the tooth, the type of tooth requiring treatment, and previous treatment completed on the tooth.  We will do a thorough evaluation for you and determine your treatment options.  At this point, we will give you an estimate of your treatment costs. 

 

Do you accept my insurance?

We work with most insurance companies. Our team at the front desk will be happy to verify that we accept your specific plan.

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Can you tell me what my copay will be?

Our team will help you to understand your dental insurance plan and how to estimate your copay. We can also determine what may qualify as a covered benefit.

 

Do you offer payment plans?

We work with CareCredit to offer patients short-term financing options that often have no interest if paid in full by the due date.  Please feel free to ask one of our team members for more information about this great option.

 

Can I pay by credit card?

We accept payment by cash, check, and major credit cards. You can get more information about insurance and payment at our financial policy page.

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What restrictions do I have after the procedure? Can I drive myself home? Can I go back to work?

You will be numb when you leave our office and we advise that you do not eat or drink anything until that sensation is gone.  The temporary filling needs about 45 minutes to set up; this often correlates with the numbness subsiding.  After that, we ask that you do not chew anything hard or sticky on the treated side until you see your dentist for the permanent restoration. We do not perform sedation in the office, so most patients drive themselves home.  Some patients, such as those taking anti-anxiolytic medications prescribed by their physician, should have a driver with them. Most patients can go to work after a procedure.  Numbness can present some challenges, such as difficulty speaking. However, this normally subsides several hours after your treatment.

 

Is having a root canal normal?

Unfortunately, teeth do not live an easy life!  Our teeth touch when we eat, swallow, speak, and even when we smile!  In addition to direct wear and tear, acid from the foods we eat can contribute to the breakdown of enamel and dentin over the course of a tooth’s existence.  Many people will have at least one root canal in their life. In fact, the American Association of Endodontists estimates that over 41,000 root canals are performed every day in the United States!

 

If I have complications, what should I do?

Mild pain and discomfort are common after a root canal. However, it is possible you might experience a more serious concern. If you experience severe pain for more than a few days, even after taking the recommended medication, or if you have swelling or allergic reactions, please call our office for further instruction. If your temporary restoration becomes loose or falls out, you should call our office at 281-461-6700. If you are experiencing a true medical emergency, including severe allergic reaction or trouble swallowing or breathing, call 911 or head to your nearest emergency room.