Root Canal Therapy

Root Canal Therapy in Pearland, TX

Restoring Dental Health with Root Canal Therapy

Are severe tooth decay, or infection compromising your teeth? At Pearland Dental Group, we prioritize your dental health and provide exceptional root canal therapy to save and restore your natural teeth. Led by our skilled Pearland, TX dentists, our experienced team understands the value of preserving your natural smile. Explore the transformative benefits of root canal therapy by dialing (281)993-9900 or read the helpful guide below.

What is Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy is a dental procedure performed to treat the infected or inflamed dental pulp inside the tooth. The pulp, consisting of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, can become damaged due to:

Deep decay
Cracks
Trauma
Repeated dental procedures

Root canal therapy involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and sealing them to prevent further infection.

Surgical vs Non-Surgical Root Canal Therapy

While root canal therapy is considered routine and requires no incisions, surgical root canal therapy is for complex cases or when treatment fails. It requires making an incision, removing the infected portion of the already infected root canal, and sealing it. Sutures are used to close the incision. The choice of surgical vs non-surgical root canal depends on factors such as the severity of the infection. Your Pearland dentist will assess your case and recommend the appropriate treatment to preserve your tooth and oral health.

Signs You May Need Root Canal Treatment

Persistent or Severe Tooth Pain: If you experience ongoing or intense tooth pain, especially when biting or applying pressure, it could be a sign of infected or inflamed dental pulp that may require root canal treatment.
Sensitivity to Temperature: Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers even after the stimulus is removed can indicate the need for root canal treatment. This sensitivity may be accompanied by discomfort or pain.
Gum Swelling or Tenderness: Swollen or tender gums near the affected tooth can indicate an underlying infection. In some cases, a pimple-like bump called a dental abscess may also develop on the gum.
Tooth Discoloration: A tooth that darkens or changes color compared to the surrounding teeth may be a sign of internal damage or infection, warranting root canal treatment.
Persistent Bad Breath: If you have persistent bad breath that is not resolved with oral hygiene practices, it could be a result of an infected tooth that may require root canal therapy to eliminate the infection.
Loose Tooth: A tooth that feels loose or shifts out of its normal position may indicate an underlying problem with the tooth’s root or supporting structures, which may require root canal treatment for stabilization.

The Benefits of Root Canal Therapy

Pain Relief

Root canal therapy relieves toothache pain caused by infection or inflammation within the tooth. By removing the source of the pain, the procedure provides long-lasting relief and improves your dental comfort.

Preserving Natural Teeth

Rather than extracting the tooth, root canal treatment aims to save the natural tooth structure. This allows you to maintain a complete smile, avoid the need for a dental bridge or implant, and enjoy improved oral function.

Infection Elimination

Root canal therapy effectively eliminates infection within the tooth, preventing it from spreading to surrounding tissues or causing more severe oral health issues. It promotes a healthier oral environment and prevents the need for more extensive dental treatments.

Aesthetic Restoration

After the root canal procedure, a dental crown is often placed on the treated tooth to restore its strength, function, and aesthetics. The crown is custom-made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, providing a seamless and beautiful result.

Improved Oral Health

By treating tooth infections and saving the natural tooth, a root canal supports better long-term oral health. This allows you to eat, speak, and smile confidently knowing your teeth are healthy and functional. The procedure may also prevent future dental disease or tooth loss.

Prevents Jawbone Deterioration

Root canal therapy helps maintain the integrity of the jawbone by preserving the natural tooth. Extraction can lead to bone loss over time, but saving the tooth through root canal treatment helps retain the bone structure.

Cost-Effective Solution

In the long run, root canal therapy can be a cost-effective solution compared to tooth extraction followed by the need for a dental bridge, implant, or denture. It addresses the underlying issue, reducing the likelihood of future complications and expenses.

Efficient and Quick Procedure

Root canal therapy is typically a straightforward and efficient procedure. In many cases, it can be completed in a single or a few appointments, providing a quicker resolution to the dental problem compared to other treatment options.

Maintains Natural Tooth Sensation

Unlike tooth replacements such as dentures or bridges, root canal therapy preserves the natural sensation of biting and chewing. This contributes to a more comfortable and familiar oral experience.

Avoids Shifting of Adjacent Teeth

Preserving the natural tooth through root canal treatment helps prevent neighboring teeth from shifting into the space left by an extracted tooth. This helps maintain the proper alignment of your teeth and bite.

Less Invasive Than Extraction

Root canal therapy is generally less invasive than tooth extraction. It allows for the preservation of the surrounding healthy tooth structure and minimizes the trauma to the oral tissues.

Minimal Discomfort

With advancements in dental technology and anesthesia, root canal procedures are now more comfortable than ever. Patients often experience minimal discomfort during and after the treatment, especially when compared to the pain associated with untreated tooth infections.

Contributes to Overall Well-Being

Good oral health is linked to well-being. By addressing and resolving tooth infections through root canal therapy, you contribute to your health and reduce the risk of systemic health issues associated with untreated dental infections.

Root Canal Therapy: What To Expect

Initial Consultation

Before you’re approved for a root canal, you’ll attend an initial consultation with one of our experienced Pearland dentists. During your consultation, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination, including digital X-rays, to assess the condition of the tooth and determine if a root canal is necessary. Your visit is a good time to ask any questions and voice any concerns you may have.

Preparation

If you’ve been approved for root canal therapy, we’ll apply a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Once we’re sure you’re numb, your dentist will continue with the next step.

Your dentist will create a small access opening in the tooth to reach the infected pulp. The infected pulp will be carefully removed, and the root canals will be cleaned and shaped to prepare them for filling. The cleaned root canals will be filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. Finally, the canals will then be sealed to prevent reinfection.

Dental Crown Placement

In most cases, a dental crown will be placed over the treated tooth to provide strength, protection, and a natural-looking appearance. You’ll leave our Pearland dental office with a new pain-free smile!

Root Canal Therapy Aftercare

Following a root canal procedure, proper aftercare plays a vital role in ensuring the success of the treatment and promoting a swift recovery. Adhering to your Pearland dentist’s recommendations can help minimize discomfort and prevent complications. Here are some key guidelines for root canal aftercare.

Pain Management: It’s normal to experience some discomfort after a root canal. Over-the-counter pain relievers, as recommended by your dentist, can help manage any post-treatment pain. Follow your dentist’s instructions on dosage and frequency to ensure effective pain relief.
Avoid Chewing on the Treated Tooth: While the tooth is healing, avoid putting excessive pressure on it. Refrain from chewing on hard or crunchy foods on the treated side until your dentist gives the green light.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Continue with your regular oral hygiene routine, but be gentle around the treated area. Brush and floss carefully to avoid any irritation. Use a mild, non-alcoholic mouthwash as recommended by your dentist to help keep the area clean.
Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments with your dentist. These visits allow the dentist to monitor the healing process and address any concerns promptly.
Watch for Signs of Infection: Keep an eye out for signs of infection, such as increased pain, swelling, or discharge from the treated tooth. If you notice any unusual symptoms, contact your dentist promptly.
Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can impede the healing process. It’s advisable to avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake during the initial stages of recovery.
Stay Hydrated and Eat a Balanced Diet: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, which aids in healing. Consume a well-balanced diet rich in nutrients to support your body’s recovery.
Be Mindful of Sensitivity: It’s common to experience sensitivity in the treated tooth for a short period. However, if sensitivity persists or worsens, contact our Pearland dental office immediately.
Report Any Unusual Symptoms: If you experience persistent pain, swelling, or any other unusual symptoms beyond the expected healing period, contact your Pearland dentist promptly. Early intervention can prevent potential complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does root canal therapy hurt?

Root canal therapy is performed under local anesthesia, ensuring minimal discomfort during the procedure. Afterward, you may experience some mild soreness or sensitivity, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and usually subsides within a few days.

How long does a root canal procedure take?

Generally, a single non-surgical root canal treatment can be completed in one to two visits, each lasting around 60-90 minutes. However, the exact duration of a root canal procedure can vary depending on the complexity of the case. Additionally, multiple visits may be required for more complex cases.

Are there any alternative treatments to root canal therapy?

Alternatives to root canal therapy include tooth extraction and replacement options like dental implants or bridges. However, preserving the natural tooth through a root canal is generally preferred for maintaining oral health and function.

Is root canal therapy covered by insurance?

Because root canal treatment is usually a medical necessity, insurance may cover some or all of the procedure. However, patients must confirm their coverage with their insurance providers beforehand to learn what costs will or won’t be covered.

Trust Pearland Dental Group for Painless Root Canal Therapy

At Pearland Dental Group, our skilled dental team is dedicated to providing gentle and effective root canal therapy. If you think you need root canal treatment, contact our office today at (281) 993-9900 to schedule a visit and take the first step towards saving your natural tooth and restoring your dental health. We serve new and returning patients from Pearland and surrounding areas such as Fresno, Houston, Alvin, and League City, TX.