Everything You Need to Know About Root Canal Therapy & Treatment

At Chris E. Perkins, DDS & Associates, a top rated dentist in Kingwood, TX, we understand the anxiety that the thought of root canal therapy and treatment can bring. With advanced technology and expert care, our goal is to make your root canal procedure as painless and straightforward as possible, debunking myths and setting the record straight on what you can really expect.

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure designed to save a tooth that has been severely damaged or infected. The treatment involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp from inside the tooth, then cleaning, disinfecting, and shaping the root canals, and placing a filling to seal the space.

Why You Might Need a Root Canal

Common reasons for needing a root canal include severe tooth decay that has reached the pulp, trauma to the tooth, infections, and repeated dental procedures on the same tooth. Symptoms indicating the need for a root canal can include severe pain, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, tenderness to touch and chewing, discoloration of the tooth, and swelling or tenderness in the nearby gums.

The Root Canal Procedure: Demystified

Our office offers many dental services in Kingwood Houston, TX. Here’s what happens during a root canal at our Kingwood clinic:

Diagnosis and X-rays: Initial dental examination and X-rays to determine the extent of the infection.
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to ensure a pain-free procedure.
Pulp Removal: Damaged pulp is removed, and the root canal is cleaned.
Filling and Sealing: After cleaning, the canal is sealed with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha.
Restoration: Finally, a crown is placed to restore the tooth to its full function and appearance.

Recovery and Aftercare

Post-procedure care is crucial for recovery. Most patients can resume normal activities the next day with minor sensitivity. Recommendations include:

Avoid chewing on the affected side until fully healed.
Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and using an antibacterial mouthwash.
Follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and function.

The Cost of Neglecting Root Canal Treatment

Delaying treatment can lead to increased pain, spread of infection, and even tooth loss. Early treatment is cost-effective and less complex than the alternatives, such as tooth extraction and replacement.

FAQs About Root Canal Therapy

Is it painful? With modern anesthesia, root canals are no more uncomfortable than a regular filling.
How long is the recovery? Most patients return to normal activities within a day, though some tenderness may persist.
Will I need additional treatments? In most cases, a crown is recommended after a root canal to restore the tooth’s strength and functionality.