Protect Your Smile Comfortably With Expert Endodontic Care
At Stonehaven Dental & Orthodontics in Waco, TX, we believe that saving your smile should never be a painful or stressful experience. Root canal therapy is often the best way to protect your natural teeth and avoid extraction, and we make sure the procedure is done in a way that our patients feel comfortable.
A root canal removes infection, relieves pain, and helps preserve your tooth for years with the right care. Our expert dentists use the latest tools and advanced endodontic techniques to ensure a smooth, stress-free procedure, so you can feel at ease throughout the entire treatment.
We know the idea of a root canal can sound intimidating, but rest assured, you’re in good hands. Our goal is simple: to preserve your natural teeth and provide quality root canal treatments that focus on comfort.
When Do You Need A Root Canal?
A root canal procedure is aimed at removing the damaged pulp from within a tooth. The pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, can become infected from untreated cavities or extensive dental work.
- Severe tooth pain, which may occur spontaneously or without a clear cause
- Discomfort while biting or chewing
- Extended sensitivity to hot or cold substances
- Swollen or sore gums
- Facial swelling
- Changes in tooth color
Early treatment can preserve your natural tooth and prevent additional issues. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment and visit to our dental office at 824 Hewitt Dr Suite 300, Waco, TX 76712.
Types of Root Canal Treatments We Offer
Conventional Root Canal Treatment
In this procedure, we address the infected or damaged pulp. We remove the infected pulp, clean and shape the tooth interior, and then fill the canals to preserve the tooth.
Re-treatment of a Root Canal
Sometimes, a tooth which previously had a root canal can become reinfected and other problems may arise. This procedure involves reopening the tooth, removing the existing filling material, and addressing the new infection to restore the tooth’s health.
Apicoectomy (Root-End Surgery)
An apicoectomy, or root-end surgery, is performed when a standard root canal does not fully resolve the infection. In this procedure, our dentists remove the tip of the tooth's root and any surrounding infected tissue, and place a root-end filling to seal the area and prevent further infection.
Children’s Pulpotomy
A pediatric pulpotomy is performed on a baby tooth with an infected pulp. Our dentists remove the infected pulp from the tooth’s pulp chamber while preserving the healthy pulp in the roots. A stainless steel crown is then placed to maintain the tooth until the permanent tooth comes in.
Our Pain-Free Root Canal Procedure
We understand that patients can feel anxious about the root canal procedure, but if you know our procedure, you can feel more at ease. Here’s what you can expect when you come to Stonehaven Dental & Orthodontics for your root canal in Waco:
1. Numb the Area
Before beginning the procedure, we administer local anesthesia to numb the affected tooth and surrounding area. You might feel a brief pinch from the injection, but the anesthesia will quickly take effect.
2. Isolate the Tooth
We use a rubber to prevent the flow of the saliva and keep the place around the tooth to dry. This helps create a sterile environment for the procedure.
3. Access the Pulp
Our dentist drills a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals. This allows the removal of the infected or damaged pulp.
4. Clean and Shape
We utilize advanced tools to clean out the infected pulp and shape the root canals. The area is flushed to clear out any debris and get it ready for the filling.
5. Fill the Canals
The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material, usually gutta-percha, and sealed with dental cement. This step helps prevent future infections and restores the tooth’s structure.
6. Apply a Temporary Filling
After the procedure is complete, a temporary filling is placed over the tooth to protect it until a permanent crown is placed. This temporary restoration maintains the tooth’s function and appearance until the final restoration is completed.
Post-Root Canal Care and Recovery
Following a root canal, you may feel some minor discomfort or sensitivity, but this can be manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. To protect the treated tooth from fractures, avoid chewing on it until a permanent crown is placed.
Receive Your Permanent Crown
A follow-up appointment is needed to place a custom-made permanent crown on the treated tooth. This crown restores both the strength and appearance of the tooth, ensuring it functions properly and is fully protected.
Why Waco Families Trust Us for Root Canal Therapy
At Stonehaven Dental & Orthodontics, we’re dedicated to providing the highest level of care with a focus on your comfort. Here’s why patients choose us:
- Experienced Professionals: Our skilled dentists have extensive experience in root canal procedures, ensuring expert care.
- Advanced Technology: We utilize cutting-edge techniques and equipment, such as dental microscopes and digital radiography, to ensure precise and efficient treatments.
- Patient-Centered Care: Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities. We focus on making your experience as painless and stress-free as possible.
- Comprehensive Follow-Up: We offer detailed aftercare instructions and follow-up visits to monitor your recovery and address any concerns.
Book Your Root Canal Appointment Today
If you're experiencing tooth pain or other symptoms that may require a root canal, contact us in Waco to schedule a consultation. Our dentists will perform a thorough evaluation and guide you through the root canal process, ensuring you receive the best care possible.