Root Canal Solutions
If your tooth is damaged or infected, there is a possibility of saving it through root canal therapy. In certain cases, teeth can become severely infected or abscessed, and you may have to choose between extracting the tooth or attempting to save it with a root canal. At Nederland Family Dental, we prioritize the preservation of your natural tooth whenever possible.
However, if saving the tooth is not feasible, our dentist in Port Neches can offer tooth replacement options to restore your smile and oral health.
If you are experiencing increasing tooth sensitivity or a persistent toothache, we recommend contacting our team immediately to schedule an examination. It is always better to address oral health issues and root infections sooner rather than later.
For more information regarding root infections and root canals, please continue reading.
What is the importance of saving a tooth?
Saving your natural tooth may seem inconvenient, but it is actually the superior choice for several reasons. Not only does it preserve the integrity of your dental work, but it is also more cost-effective than getting a tooth replacement. Additionally, it promotes good bone health.
Extracting a tooth comes with its own set of challenges, including the need to find the best way to replace the missing tooth. While implants are a preferred method, they require a longer healing time compared to a root canal and crown.
Moreover, having a gap in your smile can have negative effects on your appearance and can lead to other dental problems such as teeth shifting, a misaligned bite, and bone loss.
To ensure the long-term health of your mouth, it is always best to save your natural tooth. However, if that is not possible, we offer tooth replacement options such as dental bridges, partial dentures, and dental implants to restore your smile.
What are the symptoms of a root infection?
If you have pain, swelling, pressure, sensitivity to hot and cold, or see a small pimple-like bump on your gums, it could mean you need a root canal. However, in the early stages of infection, symptoms may be mild or even absent, with only slight tooth sensitivity. If you notice any persistent changes in your oral health, we advise contacting our office.
It's important to remember that other oral health problems can mimic a root infection, so it's crucial for your dentist in Port Neches to make an accurate diagnosis and start the appropriate treatment.
Is root canal therapy painful?
Don't let the jokes about root canal pain fool you. The true source of the pain is the root infection, and it is the root canal therapy that brings relief. Throughout your root canal treatment, we take measures to numb the area causing you discomfort, providing immediate relief.
If you feel anxious, we also offer sedation dentistry to help you during your root canal procedure. Your dentist will assess your situation to determine if oral sedation is a suitable choice for you. Furthermore, we will give you thorough instructions before and after your root canal treatment with sedation.
What happens during root canal therapy?
When we perform a root canal in Port Neches, TX for you, we will remove the infection and infected tissue inside your tooth, providing relief from any pain and symptoms you may have experienced. Our main priority is to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. To gain access to the root, we will create a small hole in your tooth.
Dr. Gomez will thoroughly clean out the root of your tooth, eliminating the nerve, pulp, and infection. To prevent any remaining infection, the inside of your tooth will be sterilized.
After the cleaning process, we will fill your tooth with an inert material and any necessary medication to prevent future infections. The access hole will also be filled. Our doctor will assist with managing any pain during your healing process. You should start feeling significantly better within a few days.
We will allow your body time to heal and schedule a follow-up exam. If everything looks good, we can complete the root canal treatment by placing a crown or permanent filling.
Do I need to get vaccinated?
We can perform certain procedures without the need for a shot. For shallow cavities or dental bonding, an anesthetic may not be necessary. However, for procedures like dental crowns, deep decay, or root canal treatment, it is recommended to numb you for a more comfortable experience.
If a shot is required, please know that we are skilled at administering them. We have mastered the technique for both adults and children, and often the anticipation of the shot is worse than the actual injection. To reduce any unnecessary anxiety, we keep syringes and other intimidating instruments out of sight.
Many of our patients are pleasantly surprised by how painless the injection is. Our doctor ensures that the experience is as pain-free as possible. Additionally, we work with a pharmacist who provides numbing gels and rinses to minimize any stinging sensation from the injection. In other words, we can numb you before the procedure so that you won't feel the injection or the treatment.
Do I need a tooth crown?
Taking out the substance inside your tooth may make it weaker and more prone to cracks and harm. To protect your root canal tooth from regular wear caused by chewing and speaking, we often recommend getting a dental crown.
This is especially crucial for molars, as they experience substantial force while chewing. A dental crown is a cap shaped like a tooth that covers your tooth, and it looks so realistic that nobody will suspect you have one!
How can I minimize the chances of getting a root infection in the future?
To ensure the safety and health of your teeth, it is crucial to adhere to the following guidelines. Firstly, it is important to regularly visit your dentist for dental exams and teeth cleanings. Additionally, maintaining a proper oral care routine at home is essential.
Dental exams play a vital role in detecting potential problems at an early stage, while teeth cleanings effectively remove bacteria and tartar that can lead to tooth decay, root infections, and periodontal disease.
By combining these practices with excellent at-home care, you can significantly reduce the risk of oral health complications. If you experience teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), it is advisable to consult your dentist about using a nightguard to protect your enamel and prevent infections or fractures.
For individuals involved in sports, it is crucial to wear a mouthguard and appropriate face gear to prevent mouth injuries. At Nederland Family Dental, our primary goal is to prevent oral health issues and keep you smiling!
Please reach out to our dental office for any help you may need.
If you are having symptoms that may indicate the need for root canal therapy, we urge you to make an appointment at our dental office in Port Neches, TX. Our skilled dentist will diagnose your condition and discuss the most suitable treatment choices for you. It is crucial not to postpone, as delaying can lead to tooth loss. Contact us immediately and allow us to help you restore your dental well-being.
