What is a Root Canal?
At Meridian, we understand that the thought of a root canal can be unsettling. However, a root canal is a common, painlesss, efficient and effective procedure designted to relieve pain and save your natural tooth.
A root canal, also known as endodontic therapy or pulp treatment, involves removing infected or inflamed tissue from inside your tooth. Each tooth has a soft core called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes infected due to decay, injury, or cracks, it can cause significant pain and lead to more serious dental issues if left untested.
Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing gentle care to alleviate your discomfort and preserve your natural tooth, helping you maintain a healthy, confident, pain-free smile.
our endodontics TEAM
Dr. Marybeth Francis
Endodontist
Dr. Jared Frisbie
Endodontist
Dr. Thomas Jahnke
Endodontist
Dr. Michael Zielinski
Endodontist
Meet Our Team
Trusted Endodontic & Peridontist Specialist in the Greater Milwaukee Area
Why You Might Need a Root Canal
Recognizing the Symptoms
Common Signs you might need a root canal:
- Persistent toothache or throbbing pain
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers after the stimulus is removed
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums
- Discoloration of a tooth
- A pimple-like bump on the gums near a tooth, indicating an abscess
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seed dental care promptly to prevent more serious issues.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
- Preserves Your Natural Tooth: Avoids extraction and maintains your natural smile.
- Eliminates Pain: Relieves discomfort caused by infection or inflamation.
- Prevents Spread of Infection: Protects adjacent teeth and gums from bacteria.
- Restores Functionality: Allows you to chew and bite without pain.
- Efficient and Cost-Effective: Avoids the need for more extensive dental work.
By choosing root canal therapy, you’re making a proactive decision to safeguard your oral health and overall well-being.
Common Root Canal Concerns
How Long Does a Root Canal Take?
A typical root canal at Meridian by a specialist takes about 45 to 90 minutes. The duration depends on the complexity of the tooth’s structure and the extent of infection. Some cases may require an additional visit.
How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?
The cost varies based on the tooth’s location and complexity but typically ranges from $850 to $2150. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer flexible payment options, including financing plans, to make your treatment affordable. Molars in the back of the mouth tend to be more expensive to treat because they have more roots and are harder to access, require additional skillset and experience to manage them well. The root canal cost can also be affected by the severity of the infection. If the infection is severe, the dentist may need to perform additional procedures, such as draining the infection, a root canal retreatment or an apicoectomy, or treat the tooth through multiple visits, which all can increase the cost. Family dentists typically charge less for a root canal than an endodontist, who is a specialist in root canal therapy, and has gone through additional years of training to provide root canal therapy in the most efficient, comfortable and predictable manner.
Will the Procedure Hurt?
Your comfort is our top priority at Meridian Endodontics & Periodontics. We understand that dental procedures can cause anxiety, and we’re committed to making your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Thanks to modern anesthesia, a calming environment, and advanced techniques, most patients find a root canal procedure no more uncomfortable than getting a standard filling. We use The Wand®, a Computer Assisted Anesthetic Delivery System, which ensures the most comfortable and effective anesthesia experience by delivering precise numbing with minimal discomfort.
Overcoming Dental Anxiety
If you feel anxious about dental visits, you’re not alone—over 80% of Americans experience some level of dental anxiety or phobia. Delaying or avoiding dental care can lead to a cycle of pain and more complex treatments. At Meridian, we strive to break that cycle by offering:
- Sedation Options: We provide nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation (sleep dentistry), and IV sedation to help you relax. Our team will discuss these options to find the best fit for your needs.
- Calm Environment: Our office is designed to be a peaceful, spa-like space with soothing lavender scents, nature shows, and noise-canceling headphones. The tranquil non-clinical atmosphere helps reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
- Relaxation Techniques: We encourage techniques like focused breathing and meditation during your appointment. Feel free to bring stress-relief items like a stress ball if it helps you feel more at ease.
- Personal Comfort Items: Weighted blankets or our X-ray shield can provide a comforting, soothing effect during your procedure.
- Support from Loved Ones: You’re welcome to bring a trusted family member or friend to your examination and care presentation appointment for additional support.
- Effective Communication: Please share your concerns with us before or during your visit. We’re here to listen and will tailor your experience to ensure maximum comfort.
Our goal is not only to provide excellent dental care but also to help you overcome any fears associated with dental treatment. By addressing dental anxiety head-on, we aim to improve your overall experience, promote faster healing, and achieve better outcomes.
Remember: Your comfort is our priority. No matter how long it’s been since your last visit, we’re here to support you without judgment and help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
What Is the Recovery Process Like?
Post-procedure discomfort is typically mild and temporary. You may experience slight sensitivity or soreness for a few days up to a week, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. We’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions to support a smooth recovery.
Will I Have Future Issues with This Tooth?
With proper care, a root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime. A crown by your family dentist is usually recommended after a root canal to strengthen and protect the tooth long term if the tooth has not previously had one. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are essential to prevent future issues.
The Root Canal Procedure: Step-by-Step
Pre-Procedure: What to Expect
- Comprehensive Examination: Includes digital X-rays, digital 3D scan, and diagnostic tests.
- Diagnosis: We’ll assess the extent of infection and inflammation.
- Treatment Plan: We explain the recommended procedure, any alternatives, and address any questions you may have.
During the Procedure
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is applied to ensure you’re comfortable.
- Accessing the Pulp Chamber: A small opening is made in the biting surface of the tooth.
- Removing Infected Tissue: The inflamed pulp is removed.
- Cleaning and Shaping: Canals are cleaned, disinfected with a series of rinses, and shaped.
- Filling the Canals: Filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha.
- Sealing the Tooth: A temporary or permanent filling is placed to seal the tooth.
Post-Procedure
- Aftercare Instructions: We’ll provide guidance on managing discomfort and caring for your tooth.
- Follow-Up: A restoration, such as a permanent onlay, filling or crown, is usually recommended by your family dentist to protect and strengthen the tooth.
Alternatives: Root Canal Vs Tooth Extraction
Choosing root canal treatment offers numerous advantages for preserving your dental health:
Pros:
- Preserves Your Natural Tooth: Saves your original tooth structure, which is ideal for natural function and appearance.
- Maintains Proper Alignment: Keeping your tooth prevents neighboring teeth from shifting, ensuring your bite remains correctly aligned.
- Avoids Additional Procedures: Eliminates the need for more invasive and costly replacements like implants or bridges.
- Reduces Future Pain: Addresses the source of discomfort, reducing the likelihood of increased pain in the future.
- Prevents Spread of Infection: Treating the infection stops it from spreading to other teeth or areas in your mouth.
Cons:
- Time Commitment: The procedure requires time for the appointment and may involve a follow-up visit for a crown to restore and strengthen the tooth.
Tooth Extraction
Tooth extraction involves removing a tooth entirely from its socket in the bone. While we always aim to save your natural teeth, there are situations where extraction might be the best option.
Pros:
- Necessary in Severe Cases: Extraction may be required if a tooth is severely damaged or infected beyond repair. In such cases, it’s the most effective way to eliminate pain and prevent the spread of infection.
- Prevents Uncertain Outcomes: If a tooth cannot be predictably saved with root canal therapy, extraction can prevent the possibility of needing to remove the tooth shortly after unsuccessful root canal healing, saving you time and discomfort.
Cons:
- Creates Gaps: Losing a tooth without replacing it can leave a gap that affects your ability to chew properly, speak clearly, and can impact the appearance of your smile.
- Potential for Misalignment: Adjacent teeth may shift into the empty space over time, leading to bite problems and alignment issues that can affect your overall oral health.
- Costly and Invasive Replacements: Replacing a missing tooth typically requires procedures like dental implants or bridges. These options can be more invasive and often more expensive than saving the natural tooth with a root canal.
Our goal is to help you make an informed decision that’s best for your health and well-being. We have specialists in both saving teeth (endodontists) and replacing teeth (periodontists) so we can offer an unbiased approach to options for your smile. We recommend discussing all available options with our team to determine the most suitable treatment for your specific situation.
Root Canal Recovery and Aftercare
Tips for Managing Discomfort:
- Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers as directed.
- Eat soft foods and avoid chewing on the treated side until fully healed.
- Maintain good oral hygiene but be gentle around the treated area.
When to Contact Us
- If you experience severe or worsening pain.
- Noticeable swelling inside or outside your mouth.
- Signs of an allergic reaction to medication (e.g., rash, hives).
- If your temporary filling comes out.
Protecting Your Tooth
- Restoration: A crown by your family dentist is usually necessary to restore strength and function.
- Regular Check-Ups: Schedule follow-up visits with your family dentist to monitor healing and maintain oral health.
Common Myths About Root Canals
Myth 1: Root Canal Treatment Is Painful
Reality: Modern root canal treatments are virtually painless. Advanced anesthesia and techniques ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure. Most patients compare it to getting a routine filling.
Myth 2: It’s Better to Pull a Tooth Than Have a Root Canal
Reality: Saving your natural tooth is the best option for long-term oral health. Extractions can lead to alignment issues, bone loss, and the need for more complex dental work like implants or bridges.
Myth 3: Root Canals Cause Illness or Disease
Reality: There is no scientific evidence linking root canals to diseases elsewhere in the body. Root canal treatment is a safe and effective procedure to eliminate infection and save your tooth.
Myth 4: Root Canal Treatment Involves Removing the Roots
Reality: The procedure removes the infected pulp inside the tooth but leaves the roots intact. The roots are essential for tooth stability and function.
Myth 5: If My Tooth Doesn’t Hurt, I Don’t Need a Root Canal
Reality: Not all teeth requiring root canals are painful. Some teeth may be asymptomatic despite having infection or damage. Regular dental check-ups are vital for early detection and treatment.
Why Choose Meridian Endodontics for Your Root Canal?
- Expertise: Our specialists have extensive 2-year training after dental school in microscopic endodontic therapy and are dedicated to saving natural teeth.
- Advanced Technology: We utilize state-of-the-art equipment, including digital imaging and operating microscopes, for precise diagnosis and treatment.
- Patient-Centered Approach: We prioritize your comfort, offering personalized care and sedation options to ease dental anxiety.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Don’t let dental pain disrupt your life. Call us at (262) 327-6100 or schedule an appointment online to take the first step toward a healthier, pain-free smile.
Our compassionate team at Meridian is here to provide the expert care you deserve.
Patient Testimonials
James L
I went to Meridian for a root canal. I had never had a root canal before. Michaelye started me off with some x-rays. She was very patient and did a great job. She was also the assistant to the Dr. Zielinski. Dr, Zielinski was great. they both were very professional caring and considerate. I really appreciated the great service I received. I would highly recommend Meridian to other people needing dental service.
Sharon K
At my dental exam, my dentist discovered I needed a root canal and referred me to Meridian. I have severe dental anxiety, and as it turned out, all for nothing. Dr. Zielinski and his assistant, Milly, were so good, so calming and so intent on making a positive experience for me, and they succeeded 100%. Even the office staff was terrific. I greatly appreciated having nitrous oxide available (at a fee), but it did much to help me relax. I wholeheartedly recommend Meridian Endodontics.
Silvester S
After being told I needed my first root canal I was a bit hesitant to go in for my procedure, but wow! From my initial phone call down to my procedure it was evident why this is a five star operation. Meridian has a very warm atmosphere with very friendly doctors and staff. Dr. Zielinski handled my root canal and truly is a master at his craft. My root canal was a breeze. I received care instructions afterward along with a follow-up phone call the next day. I highly recommend Meridian Endodontics and Periodontics.
Thank you!!
Michelle G
Michaelye and Dr Zielinski did a great job with my root canal. They were very professional and they kept me informed of everything that they were doing. I was nervous but they made sure it was pain free and gave me post op instructions on how to care for the area. I would definitely recommend them if you are in need of a root canal.