Root canal treatment has come a long way. With modern technology, techniques and anesthetics, most root canals feel much like having a filling. At Main Street Dental Smiles, gentle, comfortable care is the goal.
Why a Tooth Needs a Root Canal
A root canal treats pulp inside the tooth that is infected or inflamed, usually from deep decay, a crack or chip, or an injury. Left untreated, pulp damage can cause pain, swelling or an abscess, lead to bone loss around the root, and let infection spread into the bloodstream.
A root canal is the way to save the tooth instead of extracting it. It removes the pain and infection and keeps your natural tooth working and looking right. With good care, a treated tooth can last a lifetime.
Signs of Pulp Damage
- A toothache that will not go away
- Sensitivity to heat or cold
- A tooth that turns darker
- Swollen, tender gums
- A pimple or bump on the gum
Pulp damage does not always cause symptoms, which is why regular exams and cleanings matter.
The Procedure
We numb the tooth and offer sedation if you need it. Through a small opening, we remove the infected pulp, clean, shape and disinfect the canals, fill them with a rubber-like, biocompatible material called gutta-percha, and seal the space.
Afterward, the tooth needs a custom crown to strengthen it. We shape the tooth, take impressions for the lab and place a temporary crown until the permanent one is ready.
Gentle Root Canals in Whitesboro, TX
Learn more about root canal treatment, call (903) 564-3451 or contact us to schedule an appointment.