Root Canal & Endodontic Treatment FAQs

What is a root canal?

A root canal is essentially a filling of the inside of your tooth. When a root canal is performed, a filling is placed within the tooth’s root. It is very important that the soft tissue in the root of a tooth be thoroughly removed and the canals disinfected prior to the root being filled.

Will endodontic treatment be painful?

Our doctors at Grimes Dentistry use very safe and effective anesthetics. We understand that making your root canal as perfect as possible is half the battle. We take pride in giving every patient an excellent experience. Before we begin your procedure, we will instruct you how to alert us if you feel anything. The comfort techniques we use are dependably effective.

How many visits will my root canal take?

Most root canals can be performed start to finish in one visit. Occasionally a tooth is exceptionally infected, and those teeth might require a second or third visit. You are not charged more if your root canal takes more than one visit.

Will my tooth need additional treatment?

Teeth that have received endodontic treatment lose more than just infected nerve tissue. They lose their blood supply. This makes them more brittle over time. Dr. Grimes, Dr. Mathur and Dr. Lewis usually recommend a porcelain crown over your root canaled tooth to protect it. Some dental offices offer only a root canal. Some offer only a crown. At Grimes Dentistry, we offer both services and often can perform everything in a single visit.

What do I do if I have an emergency?

If you have any dental emergency outside of normal office hours, please call our main number at 806-79-TEETH or Grimes Dentistry Phone Number 806-798-3384 and follow the prompts to reach your doctor.

I have heard a lot about viruses and other diseases. Will I be safe during treatment?

Grimes Dentistry has strict infection control protocols. We exceed the highest standards set forth by the American Dental Association (ADA), Center for Disease Control (CDC) and OSHA.

We are proud to offer you a tour of our brand-new, state-of-the-art instrument disinfection center. Our spacious waiting room allows for social distancing and our team of dental assistants and hygienists have more than 100 years of combined experience protecting patients at our practice. Our staff attends hours of continuing education courses every year to offer the latest in technology and safety protocols.

Do you accept my insurance?

Grimes Dentistry accepts most dental insurances. We have an insurance coordinator whose job is to maximize your insurance benefits. Our goal is to help you not only with the dental procedure, but with the cost as well.

What are my payment options?

Grimes Dentistry accepts cash, check, and all major credit cards. We also work with trusted financial service providers who lend you the money you need for your care. We pay the interest on your plan, so you do not have to. This saves you money!