Your Source for Root Canals
If your tooth is damaged or infected, root canal therapy may be able to save it. This highly effective dental procedure involves removing the infected pulp and nerves from the tooth's root canal, cleaning and disinfecting the area, and then sealing it to prevent further infection. Root canal therapy is often successful in preserving the natural tooth and alleviating pain and discomfort.
However, in some cases, extraction may be necessary if the tooth is severely damaged or if the infection is too extensive to be treated with a root canal. Our experienced and skilled dentists at Nederland Family Dental understand the importance of preserving your natural tooth whenever possible, as it plays a vital role in maintaining proper oral function and aesthetics.
Why save a tooth?
Opting to preserve your natural tooth may initially seem like a hassle, but it is actually the superior choice for a variety of reasons. Not only does it help maintain the integrity of your dental work, but it is also more cost-effective than opting for a tooth replacement. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in promoting good bone health.
Extracting a tooth presents its own set of challenges, including the need to determine the best method for replacing the missing tooth. While implants are a popular choice, they do require a longer healing time compared to undergoing a root canal and receiving a crown.
Furthermore, having a gap in your smile can have detrimental effects on your appearance and can potentially lead to other dental issues such as teeth shifting, a misaligned bite, and bone loss.
To ensure the long-term health of your mouth, it is always advisable to save your natural tooth whenever possible. However, if that is not an option, we provide various tooth replacement options such as dental bridges, partial dentures, and dental implants to help restore your smile.
What are the symptoms of a root infection?
If you are experiencing pain, swelling, pressure, sensitivity to hot and cold, or see a small pimple-like bump on your gums, it could be a sign that you need a root canal. Sometimes, in the early stages of infection, you may not have any symptoms or only mild tooth sensitivity. If you notice any changes in your oral health that don't get better, we recommend contacting our office. It's important to remember that other oral health issues can look like a root infection, so it's crucial for your dentist in Lumberton, TX to make an accurate diagnosis and start the right treatment.
Is root canal therapy painful?
Don't be fooled by the jokes about root canal pain. The true source of the pain is the infection in the root, and it is the root canal therapy that brings relief. During your root canal treatment, we will numb the affected area, providing you with immediate relief.
If you suffer from anxiety, we also offer sedation dentistry to help you through your root canal procedure. Your dentist will evaluate your situation to determine if oral sedation is a suitable option for you. Furthermore, we will give you thorough instructions before and after your root canal treatment with sedation.
What happens during root canal therapy?
In Lumberton, TX, our primary objective during a root canal procedure is to eradicate any infection and infected tissue within your tooth, providing relief from any pain or symptoms you may have been experiencing. Your comfort is our utmost concern throughout the entire process. Initially, a small hole is created in your tooth to access the root.
Under the expert care of Dr. Whitney Gomez, the root of your tooth will be meticulously cleaned, removing the nerve, pulp, and infection. The inside of your tooth will be sterilized to ensure no infection remains.
Once the cleaning process is finished, your tooth will be filled with an inert material and any necessary medication to prevent further infection. The access hole created for the root canal will also be filled. Our doctor will assist you with pain management during the healing process, and you should start feeling significantly better within a few days.
We give your body time to heal and schedule a follow-up examination. If everything looks good, we can finalize the root canal treatment by placing a crown or permanent filling.
Will I need a shot?
Some procedures can be done without the need for a shot, such as shallow cavities or dental bonding. However, for more extensive 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 necessary, rest assured that we are skilled at administering them. We have extensive experience in giving shots to both adults and children, and we have mastered the technique. We understand that the anticipation of receiving a shot can be worse than the actual shot itself, so we keep syringes and other intimidating instruments out of sight to prevent unnecessary anxiety.
Many patients have been surprised at not feeling the shot or not realizing they had already received one. Our doctor is highly skilled at ensuring a pain-free experience.
Furthermore, we work closely with a pharmacist who provides numbing gels and rinses to minimize any discomfort from the injection. In other words, we can numb you before we numb you, ensuring that you won't feel the injection or the procedure.
Will I need a tooth crown?
Taking out the material inside your tooth may make it weaker and more prone to cracks and damage. To protect your root canal tooth from the wear and tear of everyday activities like chewing and talking, we often recommend getting a dental crown. This is especially crucial for molars, as they bear a lot of force during chewing. A dental crown is a cap shaped like a tooth that covers your tooth, and it looks so natural that no one will even know you have one!
How can I lower my risk for a future root infection?
To avoid tooth damage or trauma, it is important to follow these guidelines. Regular dental exams and cleanings are crucial, as they can detect problems early and remove bacteria and tartar that can lead to decay and infections. Maintaining a good oral care routine at home is also essential. If you grind or clench your teeth, consider using a nightguard to protect your enamel. For those involved in sports, wearing a mouthguard and appropriate face gear is necessary to prevent mouth injuries. At Nederland Family Dental, we strive to prevent oral health issues and keep you smiling!
Call Our Dental Office – We Can Help
If you are experiencing symptoms that may indicate the need for root canal therapy, we recommend scheduling an appointment at our dental office in Lumberton, TX. Our skilled dentist will diagnose your condition and discuss the most suitable treatment options. It is crucial not to postpone seeking treatment, as delaying can lead to tooth loss. Contact us promptly so we can help restore your dental health.
