Root Canal

A root canal is a dental procedure designed to treat infection or damage inside the pulp (the soft tissue) of a tooth. The pulp houses the nerve and blood vessels that nourish the tooth. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed due to decay, cracks, or trauma, it can lead to severe pain and potentially cause further damage to the tooth.

During a root canal procedure, the infected pulp is carefully removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed to prevent further infection. The goal of the treatment is to preserve the tooth and avoid the need for extraction, which would require a more invasive procedure like a dental implant.

Why You Shouldn’t Fear a Root Canal

Many people associate root canal treatments with pain and discomfort, but the truth is, modern dentistry has made the procedure much more comfortable than it was in the past. Thanks to advances in dental techniques and anesthesia, root canals are performed with minimal discomfort and a high success rate.

Dr. Krell’s gentle approach, combined with state-of-the-art technology, ensures that the treatment is as painless as possible while maintaining the highest standards of care.

When Do You Need a Root Canal in Houston, TX?

A root canal is typically required when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected, inflamed, or damaged. This can happen for several reasons, including:

• Severe tooth decay: If a cavity is left untreated, it can penetrate deep into the tooth, reaching the pulp and causing infection.
• Cracked or fractured tooth: A crack in the tooth can expose the pulp to bacteria, leading to infection and inflammation.
• Trauma or injury: An accident or injury to the tooth can damage the pulp, leading to pain and infection.
• Repeated dental procedures: Extensive dental work on a single tooth can sometimes cause damage to the pulp.

If left untreated, an infected tooth can lead to severe pain, abscesses, and the eventual loss of the tooth. The symptoms that may indicate the need for a root canal include:

• Persistent tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure
• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers even after the source of heat or cold is removed
• Swollen or tender gums around the affected tooth
• Discoloration of the tooth (often appearing darkened)
• The presence of a pimple or abscess on the gums near the tooth

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek dental care promptly. Dr. Krell will perform a thorough examination and may take an X-ray to determine the extent of the damage and confirm whether a root canal is necessary. Contact us to learn more.

The Root Canal Procedure in Houston, TX

A root canal is typically completed in one or two visits to the dentist’s office. Dr. Krell will take steps to ensure your comfort throughout the entire procedure, using local anesthesia to numb the area and minimize any discomfort. Here’s an overview of what to expect during a root canal:

Initial Examination and X-rays

Before starting the procedure, Dr. Krell will examine your tooth and may take an X-ray to assess the extent of the infection and damage. This helps him determine the best course of treatment and the precise location of the infection within the tooth.

Anesthesia and Preparation

Once Dr. Krell has evaluated your case, he will administer a local anesthetic to numb the affected area. This ensures that you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. The dentist will then place a rubber dam around the tooth to keep it dry and free from saliva.

Accessing the Pulp

After the area is numbed, Dr. Krell will create a small opening in the crown (top) of the tooth to access the pulp chamber. Using specialized tools, he will carefully remove the infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth. This process eliminates the bacteria and any debris within the tooth’s roots.

Cleaning and Shaping the Root Canals

Once the pulp is removed, the dentist will clean and shape the root canals to remove any remaining infected tissue. This step is crucial to ensure that the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and free from infection. Our dentist in Houston, TX uses advanced instruments and techniques to ensure precision and thoroughness during this stage.

Sealing the Tooth

After cleaning, Dr. Krell will fill the empty root canals with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. This material helps seal the canals and prevents future infection. The tooth is then sealed with a temporary filling until a permanent restoration (such as a crown) can be placed.

Placing a Final Restoration

In many cases, a tooth that has undergone a root canal may need a crown to restore its strength and function. Since a tooth treated with a root canal is often weaker than a healthy tooth, a crown is placed to protect the tooth from fractures and restore its appearance. Dr. Krell will take impressions of the tooth to create a custom crown that fits perfectly and matches the color of your natural teeth.

In some cases, if the tooth is in the back of the mouth and not subjected to heavy chewing forces, a filling may be used instead of a crown.

Follow-Up Care

After the procedure, Dr. Krell will schedule a follow-up visit to ensure that the tooth is healing properly and the restoration is functioning as expected. Any discomfort or swelling should subside within a few days, and over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to manage any residual soreness.

Recovery After a Root Canal

One of the most common concerns patients have about root canals is the recovery process. Fortunately, most people experience minimal discomfort after the procedure. Here’s what you can expect during the recovery process:

Post-Treatment Sensitivity

After the procedure, it’s normal to experience some mild sensitivity or discomfort, especially when chewing or touching the tooth. This is usually due to the natural healing process and should subside within a few days. If you experience significant pain or swelling, contact Dr. Krell for guidance.

Oral Care Instructions

To ensure a smooth recovery, Dr. Krell will provide detailed aftercare instructions. It’s important to avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the permanent restoration is placed. You should also maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing and flossing carefully around the treated area.

Avoid Hard or Chewy Foods

To protect the treated tooth during the healing process, avoid eating hard, sticky, or chewy foods on the side of your mouth where the root canal was performed. Once the final restoration is placed, you can resume normal eating habits.

Pain Management

Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help alleviate any discomfort. If necessary, Dr. Krell may prescribe stronger pain medications to help manage pain during the initial recovery period.

Success Rates of Root Canals

Root canals have an extremely high success rate, with over 95% of treated teeth healing successfully. With proper care, a tooth that has undergone a root canal can last for many years or even a lifetime.

It’s important to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions and maintain good oral hygiene to ensure the long-term success of your root canal. Regular dental checkups will also help ensure that the treated tooth remains healthy.

Conclusion

A root canal can save your natural tooth, relieve pain, and restore function to your smile. Dr. John H. Krell in Houston, TX, is dedicated to providing gentle and effective root canal treatments that help you maintain a healthy, pain-free smile. If you're experiencing symptoms of an infected tooth, don’t wait—contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help preserve your tooth with a root canal. With Dr. Krell’s expertise and advanced dental care, you can smile confidently once again.