Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is an endodontic treatment that addresses conditions that affect the internal structure of teeth. This procedure tends to have an unfair reputation among some folks, but it is likely due to misinformation being spread over the years.
Root Canals Save Teeth
The truth about root canal treatment is that it is the only procedure available to save an infected tooth. When the inside of teeth becomes infected, it will eventually abscess or need to be extracted if not treated with endodontic therapy.
By having root canal treatment, a patient can keep their tooth, avoid the need for extraction, and prevent painful and dangerous oral infections.
We understand that the procedure can be scary for Dallas, TX patients. We want you to know that we are here to make the procedure comfortable and stress-free.
Tooth Anatomy: The Root Canal
Underneath tooth enamel and dentin is a chamber called the root canal. This area inside the tooth is home to nerve endings and dental pulp, which contains cellular material. A healthy tooth’s root canal is sealed and therefore protected from harmful bacteria in the mouth.
However, a damaged tooth where the root canal is exposed to oral bacteria is at risk for developing an infection. When a root canal becomes infected, the dental pulp and nerve endings will become inflamed. Inflamed and infected nerve endings can produce incredible pain for patients.
Like the other tooth structures, a root canal cannot self-repair and, therefore, must be treated professionally, or the condition will progress. Untreated and infected root canals can also lead to a painful, systemic infection called an abscess, affecting the tooth's gums and root.
Endodontic Therapy to Maintain Your Oral Health
Endodontic therapy addresses two issues: the infection inside a tooth and impaired oral function caused by discomfort. Diagnostics like x-rays can reveal whether the inside of the tooth is infected. If the root canal is infected, our dentist may recommend endodontic therapy.
Treating an internal infection involves accessing the root canal through the top of the tooth with specialized instruments. Once the canal is accessed, the nerve endings and pulp are removed.
The root canal is then irrigated and sealed to prevent complications associated with infected root canals and allow patients to enjoy comfortable oral function.
Sometimes, restorations like crowns or fillings are needed after endodontic therapy if the tooth structure is compromised.
Our dentist performs root canal treatment as gently as possible. We administer anesthetics and sedatives (if necessary) to promote peace of mind and relaxation. After treatment, our patients overwhelmingly report a comfortable experience.
Don't Live in Pain and Discomfort
If you are in pain and think it might be an infected or abscessed tooth, please call our North Dallas dental office so we can provide the relief and treatment you need.
