Are you afraid of the idea that you might need a root canal? It’s no surprise if you are, especially since many myths make this procedure seem like the absolute worst-case scenario. While no one wants to undergo this kind of invasive oral process, it’s certainly not something to be fearful of, as root canals don’t cause pain; they eliminate it! Even so, if you want to avoid needing this type of treatment, learn how you can use your dental insurance to safeguard your smile.
What Warrants a Root Canal?
Your dentist in Carrollton may suggest a root canal for several reasons, but one of the most common is severe dental decay.
When a cavity is left untreated and allowed to spread further into the tooth’s structure, the bacteria and infection can reach the inner pulp – an area that houses blood vessels and nerves. Once exposed, it can cause intense pain and sensitivity. Without timely treatment, the problem can lead to the formation of an abscess, which often requires tooth removal.
By performing a root canal, your dentist can remove the infection, alleviate the pain, and save your tooth so that it remains in place.
How Can Dental Insurance Help You Avoid It?
Allowing tooth decay to spread is never a good idea, so if you want to prevent it and avoid needing a root canal to save your smile, here are a few ways your dental insurance can help:
- Preventive Services: Regular six-month dental checkups and cleanings are pivotal in allowing your dentist to closely examine your smile and determine if any signs of decay exist. If so, immediate treatment can be administered, minimizing the severity of the problem. The best part is that these twice-annual visits often require you to pay little or nothing out of pocket. Why? Because your dental insurance plan may agree to cover 80-100% of the costs.
- Early Restorative Treatment: Most dental insurance companies offer up to 80% coverage for minor restorative services. This means that if your dentist discovers a cavity in its early stages, do not wait to get the necessary care. In this situation, a dental filling is often enough to address the problem and restore your tooth so that it functions well. Failing to receive treatment early on can quickly lead to more invasive solutions, like a dental crown or root canal.
You should also make sure you’re practicing good oral hygiene at home – something your dentist can go over with you during your regular checkup, which is unlikely to cost you much (if anything) because of your dental insurance. Learning the correct techniques and which products are best will improve your chances of avoiding serious decay and continuing to enjoy a healthier smile.
About the Author
Dr. Moji Chandy earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from NYU College of Dentistry. Opening Aegis Dental in 2012, she and her team emphasize preventive treatment to help patients avoid more invasive and complex restorative care, like root canals. If you want to take better care of your oral health, visit our website or call (972) 492-6700 to learn how you can take advantage of your dental insurance each time you stop by our office.