Root Canal Therapy

Fort Worth, Texas

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Save Your Damaged Tooth with a Root Canal Treatment!

At Barr Family Dentistry, we understand that the idea of an upcoming root canal treatment can be intimidating to the bravest of patients. Despite the stigma, the endodontic procedure is typically quick and relatively comfortable. In fact, it helps relieve severe pain rather than causing it and prevents many complications down the road. Contact our Fort Worth practice to get your smile back on track!

What Is Root Canal Therapy?

A root canal is a term that's used to describe the natural cavity in the core of a tooth. This area contains the pulp chamber with its connective tissues, nerves, and blood vessels. If this inner pulp becomes infected or irritated due to deep decay, trauma, a chip, or a fracture, root canal therapy is the only option to save the damaged tooth. The procedure involves removing the diseased pulp tissues to prevent further damage or complications.

If not treated, the infection can spread and cause severe pain and an abscess, which can lead to facial swelling and bone loss around the tooth's roots. The infection can also enter your bloodstream, posing a serious risk to your health. Root canal therapy not only restores your oral health but also safeguards your overall well-being.

What Are Signs of Tooth Pulp Damage Requiring Root Canal Therapy?

The following are signs you may need a root canal treatment:

A toothache that doesn't go away and is worse when you eat or touch the tooth
Sensitivity to cold and hot temperatures that persists for some time
A tooth that suddenly turns black or gray in color
Swelling around the affected tooth, the gums, jaw, face, or neck
A pimple-like bump on your gums that indicates an abscess has developed
Lingering bad breath that persists even after brushing or using mouthwash

The above symptoms do not necessarily mean you require root canal therapy, but it's important to have them evaluated. Dr. Barr will recommend the most conservative treatment option to restore your smile.

Debunking the Myths About Root Canal Therapy

Here's a look at some root canal myths debunked:

Myth - Root Canal Therapy Is Painful: This may have been a fair statement in the past. However, with advances in modern dental technology, techniques, and anesthetics, the procedure is relatively comfortable, comparable to having a cavity filled.
Myth - Recovery Is Excruciating: Some people worry about having to deal with severe pain after treatment, but in reality, the procedure relieves pain resulting from tooth pulp damage. Most people resume their daily routine the same day or the very next day, and if you have some discomfort, the prescribed pain relief medication can help.
Myth - Only Painful Teeth Need Root Canal Therapy: While severe pain is often a sign you need root canal therapy, there are times when tooth pulp damage does not produce any symptoms. Visiting Barr Family Dentistry for your twice-yearly dental exams will help uncover any oral health problems, ensuring prompt treatment.
Myth - It's Better to Extract the Tooth: At Barr Family Dentistry, we are proponents of saving natural teeth, and root canal therapy can do just that. If you opt for extraction, it's important to replace your missing tooth with a dental implant or bridge to prevent the oral health complications and alignment concerns that usually follow tooth loss.
Myth - Root Canals Often Fail: Endodontic procedures have come a long way, with an over 95% success rate. With proper care and maintenance, your root canal-treated tooth can last for a lifetime!

What Is the Root Canal Procedure?

We will start by numbing the area for your comfort and are happy to administer nitrous oxide, if needed, to help you relax during treatment. When you are ready, Dr. Barr will make a tiny opening in your tooth to access and remove the diseased pulp tissues. Next, she will shape your root canals and place a biocompatible material to prevent further infection, seal the area, and place a temporary filling. We typically recommend placing a dental crown to protect the treated tooth and restore it to its strength, function, and natural appearance.