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Root Canal Story

December 21st, 2012 at 10:19 pm

My root canal Wednesday went fine. I really don't have any fear of the dentist (or doctors) so I know that works in favor by keeping my stress level down a lot. I've never been through a root canal before; it was an interesting exerpienece. There was zero pain or feeling for the whole thing. The endodontist was really good with the Novocain injections, I didn't even feel the needle. It's a strange sensation to get your head jiggled around, know what they're doing to you and not feel anything. He was worried that the tooth had a deeper crack and that it would actually need extraction. But when he used a special stain and a fluoroscopic light to check it out and it was fine. I was very happy about that! Smile

They tell you that you'll have some sensitivity for several days afterward. The roots get inflamed from all that jiggling. I think they downplay the discomfort level, 'cause my tooth is very sore now. I can't chew on it or really bump it with my tongue. Which is a terrible irony because it didn't hurt before. Rolleyes

When I checked in at the front counter the office gal presented me with the written estimate and my expected portion of payment. $766. I told her I didn't think that amount was correct because back in August I was going to get the procedure and was told my portion, as I remembered, close to $250.

The office gal wasn't sure how the first estimate could've been that low because the numbers all jived on this estimate and set insurance benefit remaining etc..etc.. I said well I'm here and I'm going to get this done so if it's $766 then that's that.

As I was sitting in the chair letting the Novocain set in I got to thinking that if this endodontist was a "preferred provider" with my insurance than my benefit maximum is increased by $500. Meaning my portion *is* $266.

And afterward I asked the office gal if that was the case and it was, so major mystery solved. *Phew!* I was really getting concerned about how I was going to cover that unexpected $500. I will be looking at my statement from insurance very carefully when it comes to be sure that they increased the allowance by that $500.

Lots of rain today.
Okay, back to work.

4 Responses to “Root Canal Story”

  1. wowitsawonderfullife Says:
    1356143899

    Glad to hear the root canal went well. I'm dental phobic so I have to ensure I have about $700 for the anestesiologist. Sorry about the spelling.

  2. Swimgirl Says:
    1356155312

    Glad there was no pain!

    SO HAPPY FOR YOU!

  3. FrugalTexan75 Says:
    1356218952

    I'm glad you got the root canal done with no pain!

  4. Jerry Says:
    1356365149

    Root canals are no fun -- at least the aftermath. Glad that the dental insurance portion was a misunderstanding, and it doesn't lead to you having to pay the full $700+, although it would seem that it is something that the office manager should have known already! I wish you a speedy recovery...
    Jerry

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