What Is a Root Canal?
At Made Ya Smile Dental, our team of restorative dentists routinely screen for tooth decay and damage and seek to treat these conditions as early as possible with a filling or similar restoration. If bacteria spread into the internal portion, or pulp, of a tooth, infection results and a root canal is needed to save the tooth from requiring extraction. Root canal therapy is a type of endodontic treatments used to eliminate infected pulp tissue from within the tooth, sterilize the root canals, and seal off the area. This type of care can alleviate pain in an infected tooth while restoring function and oral health. Treating a tooth infection as soon as possible also minimizes the risk of infection entering your bloodstream and affecting your general health.
Some patients are fearful of having a root canal procedure due to concerns over their comfort during care. Our team routinely performs root canals for our patients and caters to those who have anxiety about visiting the dentist. We offer sedation dentistry options to place you right at ease during your appointment and effectively numb the tooth and surrounding areas so that you can experience your treatment without worrying about feeling pain. If you have a toothache or think you may need a root canal, please do not hesitate to contact our Houston, TX dental team to learn about this procedure, how long a root canal takes, and our sedation solutions. Treating your tooth now may save you from needing a tooth extraction or more extensive dental care to return health to your smile.
Root Canal Therapy Reviews
What Are the Benefits of Root Canal Therapy?
There are several instances where a root canal procedure may be recommended in order to preserve your oral health, such as an abscessed tooth. At Made Ya Smile, we understand that electing to have a root canal treatment can be daunting. However, there are several advantages to this dental therapy, such as:
- Alleviates pain
- Prevents further serious infections from developing
- Improves sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages
- Preserves your natural smile
- Minimal aftercare
- A quick and safe treatment option
- Prevents problems from shifting teeth
When Is a Root Canal Needed?
The need for root canal therapy may arise from a large cavity, decay that reaches the pulp (center) of the tooth, physical injury or trauma to a tooth, or a cracked or fractured tooth. Treating any of these conditions as early as possible can minimize the extent of the damage and, ultimately, your treatment needs. Infected pulp tissue that remains untreated can spread to the underlying bone and other parts of your mouth and may even threaten your general health. If you find yourself wondering, "Do I need a root canal?" or notice any of the signs and symptoms of an internally infected or damaged tooth, contact our team at Made Ya Smile Dental right away. Our gentle chairside approach, along with sedation dentistry services, can help you enjoy a comfortable and stress-free visit when undergoing root canal therapy.
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate the need for a root canal include:
• Jaw or toothache
• Dull or throbbing pain
• Discolored or swollen gums
• Pimple-like area on the gums
• Graying or discoloration of a tooth
What Is the Root Canal Process?
During your treatment consultation to determine if you need endodontics for an infected tooth, we will review the procedure and administer sedation if needed, such as nitrous oxide (laughing) gas or oral-conscious sedation. Our dentists will also numb your tooth and surrounding tissues to ensure a comfortable procedure. At Made Ya Smile Dental, we want you to get the care you need without having to worry about discomfort and cater to those who are dental averse.
Once you are numb and ready for your procedure, our dentists will create an opening in the tooth and thoroughly remove the infection from within the pulp chamber and canals of the tooth. We will add filling material to rebuild the internal structure and strengthen your tooth to restore function. A sedative filling will then be placed and will remain until your tooth fully heals. Post-op instructions will be given to you regarding how to care for your tooth during the recovery phase.
Recovery After Root Canal Therapy
If oral-conscious sedation was administered, you will need a responsible adult to drive you home after your root canal is complete. You may notice some minor swelling or discomfort in your gums and face for a few days following your procedure. Cold compresses and nonprescription pain relievers can help minimize these symptoms and keep you comfortable while you heal. We may give you a prescription for antibiotics to also help treat the infection and keep it from affecting other parts of your body. When the infection is fully resolved, our doctors will recommend a permanent restoration to seal off the tooth and ensure proper function and appearance. Teeth that receive root canal therapy are more susceptible to breaking as these teeth are no longer vital. In many cases, a dental crown is needed to strengthen and protect the tooth from further damage. Our team will continue to monitor the health of your treated tooth at each of your routine dental cleaning and exam visits.
Are Root Canals Covered by Insurance?
Root canal therapy may be a covered benefit, depending on your individual dental insurance provider and plan. Before starting your treatment, we will contact your provider and review your coverage limits. Our team will be sure to let you know of any estimated out-of-pocket costs prior to starting your root canal. At Made Ya Smile Dental, we are happy to work with you and help you find the best treatment and payment solutions to meet your needs. Our practice accepts several easy payment methods and can provide information on flexible options through special medical financing.
Root Canal Therapy FAQ
Are root canals painful?
Advancements in dental technology make root canal therapy a straightforward procedure. Root canals shouldn't cause more discomfort than a tooth filling. We numb the area beforehand to ensure you don't experience extreme pain.
How long is recovery after root canal therapy?
Recovery will take around 3 to 7 days. Aftercare instructions are provided to ensure you have everything needed to heal quickly and optimally. When you need treatment for a root canal in Houston, TX, contact our office to schedule a consultation.
Are there alternatives to a root canal?
The only alternative available is tooth extraction. When we're able to save a tooth, it is the sought after option because a missing tooth may cause significant dental issues down the line. Please get in touch with our team if you have additional questions or concerns about root canal treatment.
Modern Endodontic Treatment
Root canal therapy is now faster and more comfortable than ever, thanks to advancements in dental techniques and sedation dentistry solutions. Treating an infected tooth as early as possible can save your smile from further damage and the need for more extensive and costlier procedures. Our team at Made Ya Smile Dental is comprised of some of the most highly trained dentists in the field and places a high priority on your comfort during all procedures, including endodontics for an infected tooth. For more information on how a root canal can improve your oral health and function, contact one of our friendly Houston, TX practice locations today.
