What Is Root Canal Therapy?

A broken and decayed tooth is typically addressed using a tooth-colored filling or a different form of restoration if it is identified and managed in time. If the decay extends to the core of the tooth, also called the pulp, root canal therapy may be required to restore oral function and prevent the need for extraction. A root canal is an advanced therapy performed at Savannah Smiles Dental to take out diseased inner tooth tissue and fill the damaged tooth to enhance dental wellness. When you have an extremely decayed or abscessed tooth, get in touch with our Schertz, TX office as soon as you can to make an appointment with Dr. Cassandra Montemayor.

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What Are the Benefits of Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy is necessary when decay reaches the tooth’s pulp, threatening both the tooth and your overall oral health. At Savannah Smiles Dental, root canal treatment can save your tooth and help avoid further complications caused by an infected or abscessed tooth. Some benefits of receiving root canal therapy at our Schertz, TX office include:

  • Relieving pain
  • Preventing tooth loss
  • Halting the spread of infection to other teeth and tissues
  • Protecting the jawbone from deterioration
  • Enhancing overall oral health
  • Improving the appearance of your teeth and smile
  • Restoring normal function for speaking and eating

Are You a Candidate for a Root Canal?

Inflamed tooth pulp can result from extensive tooth decay, a severe crack, or an injury. Dr. Montemayor may perform a digital scan and an oral examination to assess whether a root canal or another treatment option could help address tooth pain and support your oral health.

Common symptoms that may suggest the need for a root canal include sharp or persistent toothaches, ongoing dental discomfort, pain when biting, or sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. You might also observe swelling around the face or gums, a tender bump near the gums, or discoloration of a tooth following an injury.

What Is the Root Canal Process?

To help enhance your comfort throughout your root canal treatment, Savannah Smiles Dental uses local anesthesia that is sometimes combined with other sedation techniques to help ease any anxiety you might have. As soon as the tooth is numbed, a covering is placed to shield the surrounding areas of your mouth. The infected area will then be reached through a tiny opening created on the top of the tooth. The pulp, which is the structure that holds the neural tissue and blood storage for the tooth, will be extracted, and the inner tooth will be cleaned with advanced endodontic instruments. Dr. Montemayor will then seal off the damaged tooth using an effective material, followed by a crown or tooth-colored filling to preserve the tooth and restore its function.