Do you have a severe toothache that keeps you up at night? Does the thought of a root canal make your heart race? You’re not alone, but you may be surprised to learn just how comfortable modern root canal therapy can be.
At Montgomery Dental Associates & Implantology Center, Dr. Mark Hagigi provides gentle, efficient root canal treatment designed to save your natural tooth and relieve your pain. We keep you comfortable every step of the way.
Why Patients Trust Dr. Hagigi for Their Root Canal
- NYU-Trained Expertise. Dr. Hagigi is a graduate of New York University College of Dentistry, one of the nation’s most prestigious dental programs. His advanced training in restorative dentistry and implantology means he understands the intricate anatomy of your tooth and how to preserve it.
- Anxiety-Free Approach. Dr. Hagigi built his practice around nervous patients. He’s known for his calm, conversational approach and takes the time to explain every step before he begins. You’ll never feel rushed or like “just a set of teeth.”
- Sedation Options Available. For patients with significant dental anxiety or those undergoing longer procedures, we offer sedation options to help you relax completely.
- Gentle Numbing Techniques. Dr. Hagigi uses a topical gel before injections and goes at your pace. Patients consistently tell us they barely felt a thing.
- Same-Day Emergency Appointments. If you’re in severe pain, call us immediately. We prioritize emergency cases to relieve your discomfort as quickly as possible.
What Is a Root Canal?
Root canal therapy is an endodontic treatment that focuses on healing and restoring the damaged or infected pulp of a tooth. This treatment is typically for patients who have severe toothaches caused by inflamed or infected tissue.
Infected root pulp is the result of dental decay that reaches past the outer protective layers of the tooth. When bacteria penetrate the pulp that contains nerves and blood vessels, the tissue becomes irritated, inflamed, and eventually destroyed.
Common signs you may need a root canal include:
- Severe tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Discoloration or darkening of the tooth
- Swollen or tender gums near the affected tooth
- A persistent pimple on the gums
The benefits of root canal therapy include:
- Save Your Natural Tooth. The primary goal of root canal therapy is to save the life of your natural tooth. If left untreated, the infection can spread, the pulp may die, and the tooth may need to be extracted. Nothing, not even the best implant, functions as well as your natural tooth.
- Relieve Pain Immediately. Root canal treatment removes the infected tissue that’s causing your pain. Most patients experience immediate relief after the procedure.
- Prevent Further Complications. An untreated infection can spread to surrounding teeth, your jawbone, and even enter your bloodstream.
- Restore Full Function. After your root canal, we’ll place a custom crown that restores your tooth’s strength, appearance, and chewing ability.
Your Root Canal Appointment: What to Expect
Step 1: Examination and Diagnosis
Dr. Hagigi will examine your tooth, take digital X-rays, and review your symptoms. Unlike general dentists who treat a wide range of conditions, Dr. Hagigi brings advanced restorative training to every root canal he performs.
Step 2: Numbing the Area
We use a topical numbing gel before the local anesthetic injection. Most patients tell us they barely felt the needle. If you’re particularly anxious, we offer sedation options.
Step 3: Removing the Infected Pulp
Dr. Hagigi creates a small opening in your tooth and carefully removes the infected or damaged pulp from the root canals. The procedure is no more uncomfortable than getting a routine filling. You’ll feel pressure but not sharp pain.
Step 4: Cleaning and Sealing
Once the canals are cleaned and disinfected, Dr. Hagigi fills them with a biocompatible material and seals the tooth. This prevents bacteria from re-entering.
Step 5: Follow-Up Crown Placement
After your root canal, your tooth may become more brittle. To protect it, we’ll recommend a custom dental crown. The crown restores your tooth’s strength and appearance, allowing you to chew normally without worrying about fracture.
Throughout the procedure, Dr. Hagigi checks in on you regularly. Need a break? Just raise your hand, and we’ll stop immediately.
Pain & Recovery: What to Expect After a Root Canal
Your mouth will be numb for several hours immediately after the procedure. Most patients experience significant relief from their pre-procedure pain immediately.
During the first few days, you may feel mild soreness or tenderness in the area, similar to getting a filling. Over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) typically manage this effectively.
Once your crown is placed (usually 2-3 weeks after the root canal), your tooth will be fully restored. You can chew normally without restriction. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your crown is placed to prevent fracture.
Patient Review
How Much Does a Root Canal Cost in Rockville, MD?
The cost of a root canal varies based on which tooth is affected (front teeth are generally less complex than molars) and whether you need a crown afterward.
Here is the estimated range (before insurance):
- Root Canal (Front Tooth): $800 – $1,500
- Root Canal (Premolar): $900 – $1,800
- Root Canal (Molar): $1,200 – $2,500
- Dental Crown (after root canal): $800 – $1,800
Note: These are estimated ranges. We will provide a clear treatment plan during your consultation.
Most dental insurance plans cover a significant portion of the cost of root canal treatment (typically 50-80% after the deductible). Our team will verify your benefits and explain your out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins.
We offer CareCredit, LendingClub, and LendingPoint financing with low monthly payment options. We also accept cash, credit/debit cards, and most major PPO insurance plans, including Aetna, Cigna, Delta Dental, MetLife, and UnitedHealthcare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a root canal hurt?
Modern root canals are no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. We use local anesthesia to numb the area completely. Most patients report that the procedure itself is painless, and the relief from their pre-treatment toothache is immediate.
Why do I need a crown after a root canal?
Root canal-treated teeth become more brittle because the blood supply that kept the tooth moist is removed. A crown protects the tooth from fracturing under normal chewing pressure. Without a crown, your tooth is at high risk of cracking.
How long does a root canal appointment take?
Most root canals take 60 to 90 minutes. Molars with multiple canals may take longer. We’re efficient but thorough, and we never rush.
Can I drive myself home after a root canal?
Yes, if you only have local anesthesia. If you choose sedation, you will need a driver because you will be too drowsy to safely drive yourself.
What happens if I don’t get a root canal?
The infection will continue to spread. It can destroy the bone around your tooth, cause a dental abscess, and eventually lead to tooth loss. The infection can also enter your bloodstream, potentially affecting your overall health.
How do I know if I need a root canal?
Common signs include severe tooth pain (especially when chewing), prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, gum swelling or tenderness, and tooth discoloration. However, some infected teeth show no symptoms at all. This is why regular checkups are so important.
Is a general dentist or an endodontist better for root canals?
Both can perform root canals effectively. Endodontists are specialists who focus exclusively on root canals. However, many dentists, like Dr. Hagigi, have advanced training in restorative dentistry and routinely perform root canals with excellent outcomes. The most important factor is the dentist’s experience and commitment to patient comfort.
Same-Day Emergency Root Canals in Rockville, MD
Dental pain doesn’t wait for a convenient appointment time. If you’re in severe pain, we offer same-day emergency root canal appointments. Call us immediately at (301) 679-7786, and we’ll get you in as quickly as possible.
Schedule Your Root Canal Consultation Today
Don’t let tooth pain control your life. A root canal can save your tooth, relieve your pain, and protect your oral health.
Call Montgomery Dental Associates & Implantology Center today at (301) 679-7786 or request your appointment online.
We proudly serve patients from Rockville, Potomac, North Bethesda, Gaithersburg, Bethesda, and all across Montgomery County.
