Root Canals

Root Canal Therapy in El Paso, TX

The need for a root canal can be a daunting idea to many patients. They might have negative preconceptions that sway them to avoid the dentist altogether, resulting in more serious problems or tooth extraction. At 915 Smile Studio, we provide approachable dental services that put your peace of mind first. You can get the treatment you need to save your natural teeth while we make sure that you are as comfortable as possible.

What is Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy is a procedure used to save the natural teeth of patients when there is too much damage to the tooth’s inner pulp or nerve. Beneath the hard outer enamel and dentin of each tooth is the dental pulp. The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue that keep the root structure healthy and nourished. When this area becomes damaged or infected through bacteria and decay, root canal therapy can remove the inflamed pulp and restore the health and structure of the tooth. Without this procedure, it may be necessary to extract the damaged tooth and replace it with an artificial one.

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When Do You Need a Root Canal?

Root canals are necessary when there’s deep decay that reaches the inner dental pulp. This can occur when decay is allowed to spread past the outer enamel, which is more likely to happen when a tooth is cracked or damaged. Although the only way to be certain a root canal is necessary is to visit a dentist, here are several symptoms that could indicate a tooth needs root canal treatment:

If you experience consistent and severe tooth pain, especially when biting or applying pressure, it could be a sign of infected pulp requiring a root canal.
Increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, even after the stimulus is removed, can indicate an infected pulp.
Infection in the pulp can cause swelling and tenderness in the surrounding gums, often accompanied by a small pimple-like bump near the affected tooth.
A tooth that has undergone changes in color, becoming darkened or discolored, may indicate pulp infection.
Infection in the pulp can lead to an unpleasant odor or taste in the mouth that persists even after maintaining good oral hygiene.
An infected tooth may feel loose or unstable due to damage to the supporting structures caused by the underlying infection.

Root Canal Procedure

The first step of a root canal procedure is to numb the affected area for maximum comfort. We then remove any infected tissue from the root canal system, disinfect it, and fill it with a special dental material to protect it from further damage. Finally, we will cap the tooth with either a crown or filling to restore its strength and function. Most patients will be able to immediately return to their daily activities after treatment is completed. Our goal is to make sure that you are as comfortable as possible during this entire process. So if you ever have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to let us know.

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Do Root Canals Hurt?

Root canal treatments, performed under local anesthesia, are no more uncomfortable than standard dental procedures like getting a filling. While numbness may linger for a few hours after the procedure, patients can resume their daily activities immediately after leaving the office. If you suffer from dental phobia or are nervous before treatment, rest assured that root canals can be a comfortable experience. We offer sedation dentistry options so you can receive the treatment you need pain and worry-free.

Better Tooth Health, Inside and Out

Root canal treatment doesn’t have to be intimidating. We’re available to provide gentle assurance while we preserve and strengthen your teeth. At 915 Smile Studio, we provide compassionate care to get you the care you need in comfort. To learn more about how we protect your natural teeth with root canal therapy or schedule your next appointment, contact our team today.