Minimal-Discomfort Care for Severely Damaged Teeth
Root canal treatments are an important restorative treatment that can save your damaged tooth and protect the esthetics of your smile. Although many people believe that root canals involve significant discomfort, our procedures are very gentle. For most patients, the overwhelming sensation is one of relief from their toothache.
What Happens during a Root Canal?
Before performing a root canal, Dr. Dooley will numb your tooth, so you will feel little more than a slight pressure throughout the process. Like many patients, you may still feel nervous about the procedure. We offer several dental sedation options that will help you relax during your treatment. After you receive local anesthesia and any additional sedation, Dr. Dooley will clean out your tooth and root canals. He will remove all bacteria, as well as any infected pulp or damaged dental material. When your tooth is bacteria-free, he will fill it with a soft rubber compound, and he will top your tooth with a custom-made dental crown.
Do You Need a Root Canal?
Most of the time, Dr. Dooley performs root canals to treat a dental infection, but in some cases, he may use the procedure to address a cracked tooth. Although a toothache is the most common symptom of dental infection, other symptoms include:
- Sensitivity to heat or cold
- Pain or sensitivity when biting down
- A gum abscess
- Internal discoloration on a single tooth
Note that not every toothache is an indication of dental infection. Dr. Dooley will conduct a complete exam, and he will typically take digital x-rays before recommending root canal therapy.
The Importance of Root Canals
In most cases, a root canal treatment is the only way to save an infected tooth. If you do not receive this treatment, the decay will spread. Not only will this cause significant discomfort; you may completely lose the tooth. The bacteria can also move to your other teeth, your gums, and even your jawbone. Fortunately, root canal therapy can protect your oral health, prevent further dental damage, and enhance the appearance of your infected tooth.
Find Out if Root Canal Treatment is Necessary
To find out if root canal treatment is necessary to save your tooth, schedule a consultation with your dentist by calling Scott Dooley Dentistry in Garland, TX, today at 972-495-8100. We also proudly serve the residents of Dallas, Richardson, Wylie, Sachse, and all surrounding communities.