Got Deep Dental Decay? Here’s How a Root Canal Can Save Your Tooth

Tooth decay requires treatment, and when a tooth becomes infected, you may need a root canal.

A root canal is a procedure to remove infected pulp — the nerves, connective tissues, and other soft tissues in the center of each tooth. If infected pulp isn't treated, the infection can spread to the rest of the tooth, other teeth, the jawbone, and beyond.

At the practice of Heather M. Wilmore, DDS, we specialize in providing root canal treatments to save damaged teeth. Under Dr. Wilmore’s expert leadership, our highly trained general dentistry team provides compassionate, quality care to patients in Houston, Texas. This blog explores how a root canal can save your tooth. 

The root canal process

During a root canal, Dr. Wilmore numbs the area with a local anesthetic. Some patients are worried about pain, but it's important to know that most rumors about root canals are completely false. 

The American Association of Endodontists explains that a root canal experience is about the same as getting a cavity filling: minimal discomfort, thanks to anesthesia and modern treatment techniques. However, to help you relax if you're anxious about the procedure, we also offer sedation dentistry.

Once you're comfortable, Dr. Wilmore creates a small hole in the tooth to access the infected pulp. She removes the infection using special dental tools and disinfects the inner tooth canals. Dr. Wilmore then fills the tooth with a biocompatible (body-safe) material that helps prevent reinfection and places a filling in the access hole to seal the tooth.

Most patients need a custom crown that covers the entire tooth after a root canal. This adds another layer of protection to help prevent reinfection while reinforcing tooth strength.

Signs that you may need a root canal

If you have an infection or dental decay deep inside a tooth, your tooth usually lets you know through symptoms such as:

• Intense or lingering tooth pain
• Swollen or tender gums
• Increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods
• A darkened tooth

If you're experiencing any of these issues, it's important to reach out to our office for help before the situation worsens. Acting fast allows us to save your natural tooth with a root canal versus requiring an extraction.

Dr. Wilmore conducts a thorough exam and uses dental X-rays to determine if a root canal is the best solution for you.

If you have deep dental decay and live near the Galleria area in Houston, a root canal can restore your tooth and relieve your pain. Call Heather M. Wilmore, DDS, at 713-266-4222 to schedule an appointment.