
Preserve Your Tooth With a Root Canal
The Importance of Root Canals
Our teeth consist of three layers: enamel, dentin, and pulp. Enamel is the outer layer, dentin is a softer layer beneath, and the pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, lies under the dentin. Under normal conditions, the pulp is protected by the enamel and dentin. However, if bacteria enter through a deep cavity, a fracture, or dental trauma, an infection can occur.
An infected tooth can be very painful, and if left untreated, the pain will worsen. In severe cases, tooth extraction may become necessary, but this is not our first choice. Missing teeth can lead to complications such as bone loss and shifting of nearby teeth. Root canal treatment offers a solution by removing the infection, preserving the tooth, and restoring oral health. It’s less painful than extraction and typically has a faster recovery time.
Signs You May Need Root Canal Treatment
- Severe toothache that won’t go away
- Jaw discomfort or swelling
- Extreme tooth sensitivity to hot or cold
- A gum bump that looks like a pimple
- Puffy, red, or swollen gums
- An unpleasant taste or odor in your mouth
What Happens During a Root Canal?
Root canal procedures often cause anxiety, but there's no need to worry—it's not as intimidating as it may seem. At our office, we use advanced 3D cone-beam (CBCT) imaging to carefully plan your treatment, offering a detailed, three-dimensional view of the affected tooth.
This state-of-the-art technology allows our Euless Dentist to assess the tooth's structure with accuracy, enabling a customized approach to your treatment. With the use of anesthesia and modern techniques, the procedure is comfortable, and most patients experience significant relief immediately after the treatment.
We Prioritize Your Comfort
First, we numb the area of your mouth where the filling will be placed to ensure you're comfortable throughout the procedure. Next, we remove the decay from the affected tooth completely. After that, we prepare the tooth for the new composite filling by applying an etching gel to the cavity, rinsing it away, and then filling the space with resin. The resin is then hardened and set using a special dental light. We can place multiple fillings in the same area if necessary. It’s important to address cavities as soon as they’re discovered to prevent further damage.
If you think you might need a dental filling or want more details about the process, call our office today. Our friendly team is here to assist you!