Root Treatment in Geneva: Procedure and Price
Root treatment is scary. It is one of the most feared dental procedures. Yet with modern techniques, it is painless and saves teeth that would otherwise be lost.
In Geneva, root treatment (endodontics) is a common procedure. Studio Smile in Chêne-Bougeries carries it out using cutting-edge technology for a reliable and comfortable result.
What is a root treatment?
Root canal treatment, also called root canal or endodontic treatment, involves removing the infected or inflamed nerve from inside the tooth. The root canal system is cleaned, disinfected and filled.
The tooth stays in place. It continues to function normally. But she no longer feels anything: she is devitalized.
Why is a root treatment necessary?
Root canal treatment is necessary when the dental pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth) is irreversibly damaged.
Deep decay. The decay has penetrated the enamel, then the dentin, then reached the pulp. The infection causes irreversible pulpitis. The pain is intense, spontaneous, often worse at night.
Trauma. An impact on the tooth (accident, sport) can damage the pulp, even without visible fracture. The pulp gradually dies. The tooth changes color (grayish).
Tooth fracture. A deep crack exposes the pulp to bacteria. The infection takes hold.
Recovery of decay under an old restoration. An old filling or an old crown can allow bacteria to pass through. The decay progresses silently towards the pulp.
Tooth abscess. Pulp infection has spread beyond the root. An abscess forms at the tip of the root (periapical abscess). Root treatment is essential to eliminate the infectious source.
Root processing flow
Step 1: Diagnosis
Periapical x-ray and/or CBCT scan. The dentist assesses the extent of the infection, the number and shape of root canals, and the condition of the bone around the root.
Step 2: Anesthesia
Complete local anesthesia. You don’t feel anything during the treatment. Even a very painful tooth is perfectly anesthetized before the procedure begins.
Step 3: Insulation
The tooth is isolated with a rubber dam (dental dam). This prevents saliva bacteria from contaminating the ducts. This is an essential step for the success of the treatment.
Step 4: Access to the pulp
The dentist makes an opening in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber.
Step 5: Cleaning and shaping the channels
The canals are cleaned with ultra-fine rotary instruments (nickel-titanium endodontic files). Infected pulp debris, bacteria and toxins are eliminated. The canals are irrigated with a disinfectant solution (sodium hypochlorite).
At Studio Smile, an electronic apex locator determines the exact length of each canal. The precision is millimetric.
Step 6: Closing the channels
The cleaned and disinfected canals are closed with gutta-percha (a biocompatible material) and endodontic cement. The goal is to seal the canals tightly to prevent reinfection.
Step 7: Restoring the tooth
The devitalized tooth is weakened. In most cases, a crown is necessary to protect it. An inlay-core (pivot) is sometimes placed to reinforce the structure before the crown.
Does root treatment hurt?
No. With modern local anesthesia, root canal treatment is painless. The treatment is comparable to a filling (filling) in terms of sensation.
After the treatment, slight sensitivity may persist for 2 to 5 days. A simple painkiller (ibuprofen or paracetamol) is sufficient. The intense pain that existed before the treatment disappears immediately.
How many sessions?
Most root treatments are done in a single session of 60 to 90 minutes. Complex cases (multi-rooted teeth, calcified canals, retreatment of an old treatment) may require two sessions.
The anterior teeth (incisors, canines) have 1 canal. Premolars have 1 to 2. Molars have 3 to 4. The more canals there are, the longer and more complex the treatment.
Success rate
Root treatment has a success rate of 85 to 95% depending on studies. Success depends on: - The quality of cleaning and filling - The tightness of the final restoration (crown) - The initial state of the tooth and bone
Failure is manifested by the persistence of an infection. Endodontic retreatment or apical surgery (resection) can then be considered.
Price of root treatment in Geneva
| Tooth | Number of channels | Indicative price |
|---|---|---|
| Incisor / Canine | 1 channel | 500 - 800 CHF |
| Premolar | 1-2 channels | 700 - 1,000 CHF |
| Molar | 3-4 channels | 1,000 - 1,500 CHF |
| Reprocessing (resumption of an old treatment) | Varies | 800 - 1,800 CHF |
To these costs is added the cost of catering: - Composite (direct obturation): 150 - 400 CHF - Crown: 900 - 1,800 CHF - Inlay-core + crown: 1,200 - 2,500 CHF
Total for root treatment + crown on molar: approximately 2,000 - 3,300 CHF.
Basic LAMal insurance does not cover routine dental care. Supplementary dental insurance covers part of the costs.
Root treatment or extraction?
The question legitimately arises. Extraction is faster and cheaper. But it creates an empty space that must be filled (implant, bridge or prosthesis). The total cost of an extraction + implant + crown (4,000-6,000 CHF) far exceeds that of a root + crown treatment.
The golden rule in dentistry: preserve the natural tooth whenever possible. An endodontically treated tooth can last for decades with good restoration and rigorous hygiene.
FAQ
Is a root treatment dangerous? No. It is a routine treatment with an excellent success rate. Serious complications are exceptional. The main risk is treatment failure (5-15%), which requires retreatment or apical surgery.
Does the tooth become fragile after root canal treatment? Yes, relatively. The tooth loses its blood supply. It becomes drier and more brittle over time. This is why a crown is almost always recommended for devitalized posterior teeth.
Can we do a root treatment during pregnancy? Yes, if necessary. The second trimester is the ideal period. Local anesthesia is safe for the pregnant woman and the fetus. X-rays should be limited but possible with a lead apron.
Can a root treatment fail? Yes, in 5 to 15% of cases. The causes: undetected canal, incomplete obturation, root fracture, reinfection. Reprocessing is then possible. If retreatment fails, apical resection or extraction is considered.
How long does a root treatment last? A session of 60 to 90 minutes for most cases. Complex molars may require two 60-minute sessions.
Need a root treatment? Make an appointment at Studio Smile in Chêne-Bougeries. Modern, painless endodontics in one session. Accurate diagnosis, reliable treatment, lasting restoration. Book online or call us.