When a cavity or crack in your tooth is left untreated, bacteria can spread deep inside your tooth and infect your pulp. An irritated nerve leads to swelling, pressure, pain, and sensitivity. To prevent the infection from worsening, spreading to other areas, or entering your bloodstream, Dr. Locke recommends root canal therapy to save your damaged tooth. Despite common beliefs, root canal therapy is a comfortable solution to relieve your dental discomfort.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
During root canal therapy, Dr. Locke will remove the infected area of your tooth and seal the nerve chamber. He will then place a durable porcelain crown over the top of the tooth to stabilize it and return full function and appearance to your mouth.
Does a Root Canal Hurt?
Modern tools and techniques have made root canal treatments more comfortable than ever before. In fact, a root canal will restore your tooth to alleviate your pain. A root canal is also not as extensive as many people believe. Dr. Locke can often complete root canals in one or two visits to our Waco dentist office. If you’re still concerned, Dr. Locke also offers sedation dentistry to help you feel relaxed and numb during your procedure.
Is Extraction Easier?
A root canal saves your infected tooth and allows you to keep your natural teeth and roots. An extraction, on the other hand, leaves a gap or empty hole that must be filled in with a dental implant. Tooth extraction and replacement generally require more appointments, expenses, and complications.
What Happens After a Root Canal?
Dr. Locke will give you special directions to promote a healthy healing and recovery following your procedure. After root canal therapy, your pain and swelling will cease. Furthermore, once Dr. Locke restores your teeth, you can then enhance your smile with cosmetic treatments to show off your new, healthy grin.
Dr. Locke recommends root canal therapy to help patients keep their natural teeth for a lifetime. Contact our Waco dentist office at (254) 776-4888 to schedule a root canal or oral examination. We welcome patients from Waco, Woodway, McGregor, Hewitt, and the surrounding Central Texas area.