What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a common dental procedure that removes infected or damaged pulp inside a tooth. This treatment is essential to prevent infection from spreading and helps save the tooth from extraction.
How Does a Root Canal Work?
- The dentist numbs the area to ensure a pain-free experience.
- The infected pulp inside the tooth is carefully removed.
- The canals are cleaned and disinfected to remove bacteria.
- The tooth is sealed with a filling to prevent reinfection.
- In most cases, a crown is placed for added protection and durability.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may need a root canal:
- Severe, persistent tooth pain that worsens over time.
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers even after the source is removed.
- Swollen or tender gums near a specific tooth.
- Darkening of the tooth, indicating potential damage inside.
- A pimple-like bump on the gums, which could be an abscess.
Ignoring these symptoms can lead to worsening infection, increased pain, and potential tooth loss. Seeking treatment early can save you time, discomfort, and money.
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
- Immediate pain relief—eliminate the infection and discomfort.
- Preserve your natural tooth instead of extracting it.
- Faster recovery compared to tooth removal and replacement.
- More cost-effective than an extraction and dental implant.
- Prevents further dental issues and protects your overall oral health.
Root canal treatment restores your tooth’s function and helps you chew, smile, and speak with confidence again.
What to Expect During a Root Canal Procedure
At Springs Dental Care, we make the process smooth and stress-free:
- Comprehensive consultation & X-rays to assess the extent of the infection.
- Pain-free procedure with local anesthesia or sedation if needed.
- Infected pulp removal & cleaning of the tooth’s inner canals.
- Sealing and filling to protect against future infections.
- A custom dental crown (if needed) to restore strength and function.
Recovery and Aftercare Tips
After your root canal, some mild discomfort is normal but easily manageable. Here’s how to ensure a smooth recovery:
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.
- Avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth for a few days.
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.
- Attend follow-up visits to ensure proper healing.
With proper care, your treated tooth can last a lifetime!
FAQs About Root Canal Therapy
A root canal usually takes 60-90 minutes. Some cases require two visits, especially if the infection is severe.
Yes! With a filling or crown, your tooth will function like a natural tooth.
The only alternative is tooth extraction, which may require an implant or bridge later. Saving your natural tooth is always the best option when possible.
At Springs Dental Care, we offer competitive pricing and accept most major insurance plans. We also provide flexible financing options to make root canal therapy affordable for all patients.
Schedule Your Root Canal Consultation
Near Fair Oaks Ranch, TX Today!
Don’t let tooth pain disrupt your life any longer. Get the expert care you need with gentle and effective root canal therapy at Springs Dental Care. Call (210) 939-1919 now to book your consultation with Dr. Anu Adhikari, DDS.