Many people fear this common dental procedure, but it is no worse than getting a run-of-the-mill filling—and it can prevent the need for extraction.

Root canal therapy in New Orleans, LA

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Root Canal Treatment in New Orleans

There are plenty of jokes surrounding the much-maligned root canal, but in reality, this dental procedure is no worse than getting a cavity filled, thanks to modern dentistry.

root canal | new orleans If you are in pain from a toothache and suspect you may need a root canal, please call Dr. Richard Rathke at Downtown Dental as soon as possible. We will get you in quickly so we can alleviate your pain. Our caring professionals have a lot of experience performing root canals, and we will be sensitive to your needs as well as any anxiety you might have.

Root Canals in New Orleans Save Teeth

Years ago, when a tooth was infected, there wasn’t much that could be done about it—other than pulling the tooth. But root canal therapy can save your tooth.

You might be wondering why not just pull the infected tooth, especially if it is a tooth in the back of your mouth. But losing even one tooth will cause your healthy teeth to begin to shift in an attempt to fill in the space left behind. This can have ramifications on your ability to bite down properly—and it can lead to even more tooth loss in the future.

Why You Might Need a Root Canal in New Orleans

The main reason people need a root canal is that they have an infected tooth. You will likely know you have an infected tooth because you will be in a lot of pain, and it will continue to get worse. It’s always best to get an infected tooth treated sooner rather than later, so don’t let fear get in the way of seeking treatment.

When you come to our office, we will take an x-ray and perform other tests to determine that you do indeed need a root canal.

The Root Canal Procedure at Downtown Dental

Before the root canal procedure starts, the area around the tooth to be treated will be completely numbed so you don’t feel any pain during the process.

Using special dental tools, Dr. Rathke will drill a tiny hole in the affected tooth. This will enable him to remove the infected material from the root canal in the tooth. Once the tooth root is completely cleaned of any bacteria, he will rinse it with an antibacterial medicine before filling and sealing the root.

root canal treatment | new orleans Without any pulp in the root, the remaining tooth will become brittle and prone to breakage, so a dental crown is usually placed over the tooth to protect it. You will be able to chew normally again and regain full function of your tooth. Best of all—your tooth pain will be gone.

Call Us if You Are Experiencing a Toothache in New Orleans

It is never normal to have dental pain, so if you have a toothache, be sure to give us a call right away. The sooner you call, the sooner we can get rid of your pain!

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

Hearing the words “root canal” might make you nervous, but this treatment is actually one of the best ways to relieve pain and save your natural tooth. When decay or infection reaches deep inside a tooth, a root canal removes the damage, stops the pain, and allows your tooth to function normally again. Here’s why root canals are a smile-saving solution.

Saves Natural Tooth

Instead of an extraction, a root canal removes infection while preserving your tooth’s structure.

Relieves Pain

Say goodbye to toothache, swelling, and sensitivity. A root canal eliminates the source of discomfort.

Restores Function

After treatment, your tooth will be strong, stable, and pain-free, allowing you to chew and speak normally again.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do root canals cost in New Orleans?

The cost of root canals in New Orleans varies, depending on the tooth's location and the severity of your condition. Overall, root canals are considered a bit pricey, especially if you don’t have dental insurance.

But don’t panic! The good news is that Downtown Dental offers a convenient membership plan to help you afford the quality dental care you deserve.

Save Your Smile Without Breaking the Bank

Our membership plan includes discounts on preventive dentistry, examinations, radiographs, and, last but certainly not least, root canals. Root canal treatment is a procedure that shouldn’t be put off, especially if you’re experiencing extreme pain or discomfort. Without the proper dental care, a damaged or diseased tooth in need of a root canal can cause dangerous medical issues in the long term.

Affordable, Gentle Root Canals in New Orleans

As a top dentist in New Orleans, Dr. Rathke performs gentle root canal treatment to relieve tooth pain and preserve your oral health. Whether you have severe decay or suffered from an injury, Dr. Rathke carefully removes damaged tooth pulp and restores your tooth to its normal look and function. Also, a root canal may be better for your oral health and wallet than waiting and needing an extraction sometime down the road.

Contact Downtown Dental today to learn more about affordable root canals in New Orleans.

Do root canals hurt?

No, root canals do not hurt!

If you’re like many people, you might be under the impression that root canals are extremely painful. Unfortunately, many people have grown up believing that root canal treatment is something to be feared and avoided at all costs—but this belief is far from the truth!

What is a Root Canal Procedure Like at Downtown Dental?

Because root canals are usually necessary when a patient has a dental infection and is already in a significant amount of pain, root canals have a bad reputation. Truthfully, however, a root canal treatment is not what causes the pain—it’s what relieves it.

We designed our New Orleans root canal experience to feel similar to getting a dental filling. Root canals require anesthesia to numb the affected area, and you can expect to feel pressure and hear the sounds of our dental instruments.

While your root canal may feel slightly uncomfortable, it should not ever be painful! If you ever feel pain during your treatment, you should let Dr. Rathke know right away so we can make any necessary adjustments to your anesthesia and address the problem.

Contact Our Dental Team with Any Questions

Root canal therapy should provide immediate pain relief and ensure long-term comfort for your tooth. At Downtown Dental, we are committed to making your treatment experience pain-free and stress-free. If you're experiencing severe tooth pain or have been told you need a root canal, don't hesitate to contact us.

Our skilled dental team is here to help you with root canals in New Orleans and guide you every step of the way. Schedule your appointment today to start feeling better!

Meet Our Doctor:

Dr. Richard Rathke DDS

Dr. Richard M. Rathke, Jr., grew up in Lacombe, Louisiana, and attended Slidell High School. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Louisiana State University (2006) and a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from LSU School of Dentistry (2012). Dr. Rathke takes pride in providing dental services as he would for himself and his family while ensuring that every patient is comfortable throughout the procedure.

Some of the continuing education courses Dr. Rathke has taken include the following:

Sports Dentistry Trauma
Advanced Dentoalveolar Surgery for the General Practitioner
Maxillary Implant Prosthetics
Insights into Prosthodontic ...

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We can help stop your toothache pain with treatment!