Root Canals Specialist

2222 Dental -  - General Dentist

2222 Dental

General Dentists & Comprehensive, Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry located in Austin, TX

An infected nerve root can cause unbearable pain and lingering sensitivity after you eat. At 2222 Dental in Austin, Texas, the expert dental team performs root canals to alleviate pain and prevent new infections. For more information about the root canal procedure, call 2222 Dental or book an appointment online today.

Root Canals Q & A

What are root canals?

Root canals are a type of dental treatment for infected or inflamed nerve roots within your teeth. To begin the treatment, the team at 2222 Dental numbs the area around the tooth with local anesthesia. 

Root canals have an outdated reputation for being painful, but local anesthesia can keep you comfortable during the treatment. In fact, you’ll probably feel less pain after your root canal than you did before with the infection!

Your dentist creates a hole in the tooth and uses tools called files to remove the infected soft tissue through the hole. Then, they clean and disinfect the empty inside of your tooth, fill the canal to seal it off, and prevent another infection. In most cases, you need a crown over your tooth after a root canal. The team prepares the tooth and takes impressions for your crown before placing it on at a later appointment. 

When do I need a root canal?

The signs and symptoms of a nerve root infection inside your tooth can easily be mistaken for tooth decay. That’s why it’s important for you to report your symptoms to the team at 2222 Dental and have them examine your teeth for a diagnosis. If you need a root canal, you might experience:

  • Pain upon biting down
  • Sensitivity to certain temperatures and tastes
  • Tooth darkening and discoloration
  • Swollen gums
  • Pimples on your gums
  • Tooth loosening

Getting your root canal treatment as soon as possible can save the tooth and help you avoid complications. Even if you don’t notice any symptoms, you should attend all of your six-month exams and cleanings at 2222 Dental to make sure your mouth is healthy.

What happens if my root canal isn’t successful?

Root canals have an extremely high success rate. In fact, there’s a 95% chance that your treatment will go smoothly and that it will fully alleviate your pain. If you still feel tooth pain, sensitivity, or discomfort after you heal from your root canal, you might need a second treatment. 

During a root canal retreatment, the team at 2222 Dental opens your tooth and removes any remaining part of the nerve. They might need to perform oral surgery to seal the canal. If this is the case, they may refer you to an oral surgeon for your second procedure. 

To find out if your symptoms indicate the need for a root canal, call 2222 Dental or book an appointment online today.