Root Canal Therapy in Dallas, TX

When identified early, cracked and deteriorating teeth are often corrected with a filling or another type of treatment. However, as the damage reaches the middle of the tooth (also called the pulp), a root canal is sometimes needed to restore oral health and prevent removal. A root canal is an endodontic therapy performed by Drs. Hamlett and La Mastra to extract infected inner tooth tissue and fill the compromised tooth to enhance dental function. Our skilled physicians address abscessed or centrally decayed teeth using careful root canal treatment and employ sedation options to further boost patient relaxation. When you suffer from a severely decayed or infected tooth, contact our Dallas, TX office as soon as you can to find out about the benefits of gentle root canal therapy.

With multiple anesthetic and sedation options, root canal therapy at Hamlett & La Mastra, DDS, can be quick and easy while offering a number of great benefits like:

• Removes infection
• Relieves pain
• Allows you to keep your tooth
• Protects the health of neighboring teeth
• Enhances the tooth’s appearance
• Supports jaw health and prevents bone loss
• Improves oral and overall health

Damaged tooth pulp is often caused by extreme cavities, a deep crack, or some sort of trauma. At our practice, we will call for a digital scan and conduct an oral assessment to find out if a root canal or another therapy is needed to mitigate tooth discomfort and restore your dental health. Frequent signs that can indicate you need a root canal include:

• Sharp or throbbing dental aches
• Persistent oral discomforts
• Aching while biting
• Sensitivity to higher and mild temperatures
• Swelling focused on the lower face or gum tissues
• A noticeable boil near the gums
• Discoloration of a tooth after an injury

At our Dallas, TX facility, root canals are done using local anesthesia and are occasionally offered jointly with sedation substances to produce enhanced comfort. Once the tooth is numb, a screen is positioned to protect the patient's mouth. The infected pulp will then be exposed through a small opening created at the top of the tooth. The pulp, which holds the nerve tissues and blood storage inside of each tooth, will be taken out, and the region will be modified utilizing special endodontic tools before being completely disinfected. Dr. Hamlett or Dr. La Mastra will then close off the compromised tooth with a medical-grade substance and conclude with a sedative filling to promote the recovery period.

The dental discomfort you were feeling should start to subside once the root canal is over. Store-bought pain relievers can help lessen any aches or inflammation that develop after your visit. We will set up a check-in appointment a few weeks later so we can assess your healing. Teeth restored with root canal therapy are more susceptible to injury and generally need the security of a customized crown when they're entirely healed. A custom crown could then be crafted to restore the health and visual appeal to the tooth.

Does a root canal hurt?

Many people may get anxious at the idea of needing a root canal and wonder if it will be painful. While a root canal is an involved procedure, with the advanced anesthetic options at Hamlett & La Mastra, DDS, you don't have to worry about pain. We offer multiple anesthetic options, including traditional anesthetic injections, and advanced sedation options including, oral sedation, IV sedation, and nitrous oxide sedation, so your root canal can be completed with little to no pain or discomfort.

How long is recovery after a root canal?

Most patients will be able to get back to work and their normal routine the next day after their root canal therapy procedure. Some may experience mild soreness or discomfort for a few days after, but this is typically easy to control with over-the-counter pain relievers and usually goes away quickly.

Why does a tooth need a root canal?

The most common reasons that a tooth needs a root canal include:

• A broken tooth
• A tooth that has had multiple fillings
• A severely cracked tooth
• A serious, deep cavity or extensive tooth decay
• A tooth infection that has reached the root/nerves

How long does a root canal last?

Most root canal treatments will last between 8 — 10 years, and if fitted with a crown, like the ones offered by Drs. Hamlett and La Mastra can last even longer.

How long does it take to get a root canal?

Typically, a root canal takes only 30 — 60 minutes. If the root canal is more involved, it may take up to 90 minutes.

Cracked and abscessed teeth could result in a wide range of dental and general health conditions if neglected or left untreated. However, a root canal can be an efficient option to rescue your tooth, and ultimately, your oral wellness. Get in touch with one of our skilled dentists, Drs. Hamlett and La Mastra, at our practice in Dallas, TX to plan an appointment. Find out about our specialized endodontic therapy.