Root Canal Therapy
Kingwood TX
Serving the Kingwood community & surrounding areas since 1998
Root Canal Therapy Kingwood TX
Serving the Kingwood community & surrounding areas since 1998
Root Canals For Pulp Infection & Repair
Root canal therapy may be necessary when the pulp inside a tooth root becomes infected or severely damaged due to deep decay, a crack, trauma, or complications from a previous filling. Not every affected tooth causes noticeable symptoms, which is why dental exams and X-rays are important for identifying problems before pain develops. Without treatment, the infection can worsen and may eventually require the tooth to be extracted.
Although many patients feel apprehensive about root canal therapy, it is a common procedure that can relieve pain and preserve the natural tooth. Saving the tooth also helps maintain your smile, supports proper chewing, and prevents surrounding teeth from shifting or experiencing additional strain.
Although there is a common association with root canal therapy being an incredibly painful procedure, advancements in oral surgical techniques and improved anesthetic and sedation methods have made the pain associated with root canal therapy very moderate, and any discomfort that does occur is far outweighed by the relief patients will feel having the issue resolved. At Kingwood Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we are dedicated to creating an environment where open dialogue is encouraged, so we can ensure you have a thorough understanding of the procedure being performed, and confidence that you are receiving high-quality specialized care designed to meet your unique needs. To learn more about root canal therapy, or to schedule an appointment, contact us today at 281-359-9100, or visit our office, which is located at 1542 Green Oak Pl, Kingwood, TX 77339.
Symptoms Indicating the Need for Root Canal Therapy
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, these may be indications that the pulp of your tooth has become infected and root canal therapy is necessary.
- Severe toothache pain
- Pain that occurs when pressure is applied to your tooth
- Pain while chewing
- Change in color or shade of a tooth
- Swollen gums
- Extreme sensitivity to cold or hot foods or beverages
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment as quickly as possible.
The Root Canal Therapy Process
If your dentist has determined that the pulp of your tooth has become infected and a cavity will not be sufficient to address the issue, you will need to schedule an appointment for root canal therapy. Prior to beginning the procedure, your dentist will typically administer a local anesthetic to ensure the area being worked on is properly numbed. If necessary, dental sedation will also be provided.
Once you are properly numbed and/or sedated, the root canal therapy process will begin with the removal of the injured pulp. Once this pulp has been removed, the root canal system is disinfected and thoroughly cleaned. Once this area has been properly cleaned, a filling is placed in order to seal the tooth and prevent additional infection from developing. If the tooth has experienced significant decay, a dental crown may also be placed, which will help strengthen the tooth. The time involved in root canal therapy will vary from patient to patient, but in general, performing root canal therapy on an anterior tooth will typically take one hour, whereas molars and premolars can take around two hours to complete.
Aftercare Following Root Canal
Following root canal therapy, it will not be necessary to follow any modified self-care, although it is common to experience mild pain or discomfort. To continue enjoying good oral health and reduce the need for this type of procedure in the future, it is important to consistently follow good oral hygiene practices. In addition to brushing and flossing twice daily (at a minimum), be mindful of the types of food and beverages you consume, and avoid foods or substances that can negatively impact your oral health (chewing tobacco, staining foods, sugary drinks). It is equally important to schedule regular dental cleanings every six months, or more frequently, depending upon your unique oral health needs. If you follow these general guidelines, you will enjoy a healthy smile for many years to come!
Root Canal Cost & Insurance Coverage
The cost of root canal therapy will depend upon the location of the tooth (front teeth tend to be less expensive than molars), what type of sedation is used, and what insurance coverage from your dental plan can be applied. It is important to be aware that you are fully responsible for all fees of treatment, and payment is due at the time of service, regardless of your insurance coverage. Monthly payment plans can be arranged, but this will need to be accomplished prior to the procedure being performed. Although we may not have a contractual arrangement with your provider, our staff is happy to assist with processing your insurance claim to ensure that you maximize your benefits and receive the high-quality care you need and deserve. For your convenience, we accept Mastercard, Visa, and Discover.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Scheduling an appointment for root canal therapy is the first step towards improving and maintaining your ongoing oral health.
At Kingwood Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we provide personalized dental care focused on your oral health and comfort. Our team is committed to delivering high-quality treatment in a welcoming environment. We also take the time to explain your procedure and answer any questions so you feel informed and comfortable throughout your care.
To learn more about root canal therapy or to schedule an appointment, call us at 281-359-9100. You can also visit our office at 1542 Green Oak Pl, Kingwood, TX 77339. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthier smile.