Gentle Root Canal Therapy

in San Antonio, TX

Beautiful young woman happy after root canal therapy

Despite the misconception that root canal therapy is excruciatingly painful, the procedure is relatively comfortable and relieves pain rather than causing it. Your trusted team at Calm Spring Dental will do everything possible to ensure you are relaxed and comfortable throughout treatment. Our modern techniques and sedation dentistry options will leave you with a positive and stress-free experience.

What Is Root Canal Therapy?

A tooth's "root canal" is the space in its center that contains the pulp chamber with its soft tissues and nerves. If the area becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay, a chip or crack in the tooth, damaged restorations, or trauma, root canal therapy may be necessary. Root canal therapy is an endodontic treatment that involves removing the inflamed or infected tooth pulp, then filling the space with a material designed to maintain the tooth's root's structural integrity.

Why Is Root Canal Therapy Necessary?

Inflammation or infection of a tooth's pulp left untreated can lead to complications, including severe pain and swelling, an abscess, or bone deterioration around the tooth's root, potentially leading to tooth loss. Root canal therapy helps preserve a natural tooth, allowing you to enjoy the foods you love and protecting the neighboring teeth from shifting or wear. You'll also maintain your natural appearance without worrying about tooth replacement options such as bridges or dental implants. A tooth that has undergone a root canal treatment can last a lifetime with proper care.

How Do You Know if You Have a Root Canal Problem?

Symptoms of root canal problems include pain when biting or chewing, lingering sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, a discolored tooth, swollen or tender gums, and a recurring pimple forming on the gums. In some cases, root canal problems may not show any symptoms. That's why it's important to schedule your periodic dental exams and cleanings. If we detect a problem through digital x-rays or a physical exam, we will address it promptly to prevent its progression.

What Happens During a Root Canal Procedure?

After numbing the area, we will make a small opening to access and remove the diseased pulp. Next, we will reshape the canal chambers, clean and medicate them, then fill your root canals with a rubbery material called gutta-percha. We will conclude the procedure by sealing the space to prevent any further infection.

After root canal therapy, the treated tooth is weak and prone to fracture. We will prepare a dental crown to protect and strengthen the affected tooth and restore its appearance and function.

How We Help You Relax During Root Canal Therapy?

At Calm Spring Dental, we understand that an upcoming root canal appointment may have you worried. We want to reassure you that we will spare no effort to make your time with us comfortable, pleasant, and free of stress. If you're anxious about a root canal procedure, we encourage you to contact our team to discuss our sedation dentistry options for an anxiety-free appointment.

How Can You Prevent the Need for Root Canal Therapy?

The best way to prevent damage to a tooth's pulp is to maintain your oral health through regular brushing and flossing. Moreover, it's best to avoid consuming hard foods that can crack your teeth and allow bacteria to enter your root system. If you habitually grind or clench your teeth or if you are involved in sports activities, a mouthguard will help protect your teeth from damage. Don't forget to visit Calm Spring Dental for your twice-a-year dental exams and cleanings to prevent the onset or progression of dental disease.