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Root Canal Therapy - Sugar Land, TX

Save Your Tooth with a Root Canal

woman with dental painDo you have a severely decayed or infected tooth? Do not have it removed! We can save it with a root canal. We can rehabilitate it using an effective endodontic procedure to allow your tooth to stay in place for several years to come. Although they have a bad reputation for being painful, you have nothing to fear. New advancements in dentistry now make them no worse than a traditional dental filling.

What is a Root Canal?

root canal procedureA root canal is the most common endodontic procedure used to restore a decayed or infected tooth. Although it is widely used, it is only recommended when there are no other viable treatments to save it from an extraction.

The procedure involves removing the areas of decay and extracting the inner layer of the tooth, known as the pulp. The tooth is sterilized and sealed with a special material called gutta-percha. To reinstate its appearance and function, a custom-made dental crown is placed over it. Now, they are crafted to look like a real tooth, so no one will tell it is not your own.

Why is One Needed?

man in dental chairWhen a cavity has been left untreated or a severe fracture occurs, the pulp can become compromised. Both can lead to significant pain and infection. To resolve the issue, the simple solution may appear to be to have the tooth removed; however, this is never the best option.

Every tooth in your mouth has an important role to promote your oral health and functions. When even one is missing, it negatively impacts your quality of life and your dental health. To fill the empty space, you will need a dental prosthetic.

Instead of having the tooth pulled, it is best to save it with a root canal whenever possible. After performing an initial consultation to evaluate your tooth, we create an individualized treatment plan to save your smile.

How Does Decay Start?

Although it can be prevented, tooth decay is the most prevalent oral health issue. It occurs when sugars combine with saliva to form an acid. As it sits on your tooth, it slowly eats away at your enamel until a hole develops. At this stage, it is easily treatable with a simple dental filling. Unfortunately, if it is not treated right away, it will extend beyond the enamel to affect the dentin. Over time, it can eventually reach the pulp, causing an infection and inflammation.

Do I Need a Root Canal?

There are some pretty obvious signs that a root canal may be in your best interest, which can include:

  • Serious pain when eating or placing pressure on a tooth.
  • Pain or sensitivity that lingers when eating or drinking something that is hot or cold.
  • Small, pimple-like bump near the gum.
  • Darkening of the tooth.
  • Tenderness or swelling of the gums near the tooth.

Root Canal FAQs

Model showing steps in procedure for root canal

No one ever expects to need a root canal, but it’s more common than you might realize. If we recommend root canal therapy to save your tooth, you’ll likely have several questions before you’re ready to agree to the treatment. We’ll take the time to explain the procedure and address any concerns. While you wait for your appointment, here are the answers to a few of the most common questions you’re asked to help ease any apprehensions.

Is a root canal painful?

Root canals have a bad reputation for being painful. This might have been true in the past, but several improvements to the procedure now make it less invasive. Not to mention, we’ll also use a local anesthetic, and we offer sedation dentistry to ensure your comfort. While you recover, there might be some tenderness, but you can manage it using an over-the-counter pain reliever.

Is it better to have my tooth extracted?

Extracting a problematic tooth might seem like the right solution because it eliminates the issue at the source. Unfortunately, this creates a new list of complications. You’ll slowly lose bone density because your jaw isn’t being stimulated by the root. As you lose bone, your remaining teeth will drift out of alignment because they won’t have adequate support. This increases your risk of several concerns, including cavities, gum disease, and additional tooth loss.

You can stop the complications of missing teeth and preserve your smile with the help of your emergency dentist. Root canal therapy will restore the health of your tooth, allowing it to thrive for many years with the right aftercare.

Can I wait to have a root canal?

No one has time in their day for a dental appointment, but you shouldn’t wait to get the care you need. If you delay your root canal too long, the damage might be too extensive, and we won’t be able to save your tooth. As a result, an extraction will be the only remaining solution. Instead, you can keep your tooth and rehabilitate your smile by scheduling your appointment. Our office uses the latest technologies to streamline your treatment, so you spend less time in the dental chair.

Will I need a dental crown?

Often, a dental crown is needed after a root canal. The custom-made cap is bonded over the entire visible surface of a tooth down to the gum line. It provides an added layer of protection while also improving the function and health of the tooth. Our crowns are made of all-ceramic material to look natural.

How much does a root canal cost?

There isn’t a set cost for root canal therapy because the fees are determined by your specific treatment plan. We’ll provide you with an estimate during your consultation and discuss your payment options, like using your dental insurance or third-party financing. We will help you find the solutions you need to save your tooth without breaking the bank.

Save Your Tooth with a Root Canal

Do not have your tooth pulled. Eco Dental Group can save your smile with a root canal. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.