Root canal treatment, also known as root canal therapy, is a dental procedure that involves the removal of infected or damaged tissue within the tooth’s root canal and the subsequent filling and sealing of the canal to prevent re-infection. This procedure is performed when a tooth’s pulp, which is the soft tissue within the root canal that contains nerves and blood vessels, becomes infected or inflamed due to injury or decay. If left untreated, an infected pulp can lead to tooth loss, which is why root canal treatment is so important.

When to Consider Root Canal Treatment

The most common symptoms of an infected tooth or inflamed pulp are severe tooth pain and sensitivity. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms of tooth infection, it is important to schedule an appointment with a dentist or root canal specialist as soon as possible. In some cases, a dentist may also recommend root canal treatment if they see signs of infection on a radiograph (x-ray).

How is Root Canal Treatment Performed

The Root Canal Procedure

Root canal treatment is typically performed in one or two visits to the dental office. During the procedure, the dentist performing root canal treatment will numb the affected tooth and surrounding area with a local anesthetic. Next, they will make a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the root canal.

The infected or inflamed tissue is then carefully removed from the root canal using special tools. The inside of the root canal is then cleaned and shaped to prepare it for filling. In most cases, a temporary filling is placed in the tooth to protect it until the next appointment.

During the second appointment, the root canal specialists will place a rubber-like material called gutta percha into the root canal to fill it. They will then seal the opening in the tooth with a filling or crown to protect it from further infection. In some cases, a post and core build-up may also be needed to provide additional support for the tooth.

Emergency Root Canal Treatment

In some cases, a tooth infection can progress rapidly and become very painful. If you are experiencing severe tooth pain or sensitivity, you may need emergency root canal treatment. This type of treatment is similar to regular root canal treatment but is performed on an emergency basis by root canal specialists to relieve the pain and prevent further damage to the tooth.

Cost of Root Canal Treatment

The cost of root canal treatment will vary depending on several factors, including the type of tooth that requires treatment, the extent of the damage, and your dental insurance coverage. In general, root canal treatment is less expensive than the cost of an endodontic surgery or a dental implant. Most dental insurance plans will cover a portion of the cost of root canal treatment, so it is important to check with your insurance provider to determine your specific coverage.

Advantages of Root Canal Treatment

There are several advantages of root canal treatment that make it a preferred option over other dental procedures. Here are some of the benefits of this procedure:

  1. Saves the Natural Tooth: Root canal treatment allows the dentist to remove the infected or damaged tissue from the tooth’s root canal and preserve the natural tooth. This is a much better option than extracting the tooth, which can cause additional problems with the surrounding teeth.
  2. Relieves Pain: Root canal therapy is performed to relieve the pain caused by an infected or inflamed pulp. Most patients experience a significant reduction in tooth pain after the procedure.
  3. Prevents Tooth Loss: If left untreated, an infected pulp can lead to tooth loss. Root canal therapy prevents this from happening by removing the infected tissue and preserving the natural tooth.
  4. Maintains Bite: When a tooth is lost, it can cause changes in the bite, which can lead to further problems. By preserving the natural tooth, root canal procedure helps maintain the bite and prevent additional dental problems.
  5. Cost-effective: Root canal therapy is typically less expensive than other options, such as dental implants or endodontic surgery. Additionally, most insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of root canal therapy.

Root canal procedure is a safe, effective, and cost-efficient way to save a damaged or infected tooth. If you are experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, it is important to schedule an appointment with a dentist or root canal specialist to determine if this procedure is right for you.

Choosing a Root Canal Specialist

When it comes to choosing a root canal specialist, you have several options. Some general dentists have the skills and training to perform root canal treatment in their own office, while others may refer you to an endodontist, who is a specialist in root canal procedures. Endodontists have completed additional training in root canals and perform these procedures on a regular basis.

If you are in need of root canal treatment, it is important to choose a specialist who has experience and expertise in this area. You can ask your regular dentist for a referral to a root canal specialist, or you can search online for root canals to find a specialist in your area.

URBN Dental Houston: Visit Our Root Canal Dentist

If you are looking for top-notch root canals in Houston, look no further than URBN Dental. Our experienced and highly trained root canal dentist and specialists are dedicated to providing the best dental care to our patients. Our state-of-the-art dental office is equipped with the latest technology and equipment to ensure a comfortable and efficient experience. With a focus on patient comfort and satisfaction, our team will provide personalized care to meet your individual needs. So why wait? Book an appointment today and experience root canal treatment in Houston.