10475 Preston Rd, #200, Frisco, TX 75033
Restoring Oral Health and Saving Your Natural Tooth
Each tooth consists of two main parts: the crown, which is the visible portion above the gum line, and one or more roots that secure the tooth within the jawbone. Teeth are also made up of three layers: the hard outer enamel that protects the crown, cementum that covers the roots, a softer middle layer called dentin, and the pulp located at the center of the tooth.
The pulp is living tissue made up of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. It is located inside the pulp chamber in the crown and extends through the root canals down to the tip of each root.
When the pulp becomes infected or starts to die, it cannot heal on its own. Without timely treatment, the tooth may eventually need to be removed. Infections in the pulp can also spread to the gums, jawbone, and even other areas of the body. Root canal therapy helps save the tooth and stop the infection by removing the damaged pulp and restoring the tooth’s structure.
Book Online
What Causes the Need for Root Canal Treatment?
Even though the pulp is protected by several layers, it can still become injured or infected due to:
- Deep decay that reaches the pulp chamber, allowing bacteria to enter and cause infection
- Cracked or broken teeth that expose the pulp to bacteria
- Advanced gum disease that spreads infection into the roots
- Dental trauma that damages the tooth’s nerves or blood supply, leading to pulp death
The Root Canal Procedure
A root canal treatment is generally a simple procedure. If you feel nervous about treatment, your dentist may discuss sedation options to help you stay comfortable.
- The area around the tooth is numbed before treatment begins, and a dental dam may be used to isolate the tooth.
- An opening is created in the crown to reach the pulp chamber.
- Specialized instruments are used to remove infected or damaged pulp tissue and clean the root canals thoroughly.
- The inside of the tooth is disinfected and shaped to prepare it for filling.
- The canals and pulp chamber are sealed using gutta-percha or a dental filling material.
- In most cases, a dental crown is placed to strengthen and protect the treated tooth. A temporary filling or crown may be used until the permanent restoration is ready, which is typically placed during a follow-up appointment.
Most root canal treatments can be completed in one to three visits.
Signs of Pulp Infection
Sometimes a tooth needing root canal treatment may not show symptoms, but common warning signs include:
Ongoing tooth pain that may range from mild to severe
Pain when chewing or applying pressure to the tooth
Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
A tooth that is cracked, broken, darkened, or discolored
Red, swollen, or tender gums near the affected tooth
A recurring pimple-like bump on the gums, which may indicate an abscess or infection near the tooth root
Root canal treatment should be performed by an endodontist or a dentist trained in treating the inside of the tooth. If you notice any signs of infection or injury, contact your dentist promptly. Early treatment can relieve discomfort, prevent the infection from spreading, and help preserve your natural tooth for many years with proper dental care and regular checkups.