Save Your Natural Tooth
When a tooth becomes infected, prompt treatment can often save it from extraction. At the Alexandria Smile Center, Dr. John Moylan provides gentle root canal therapy designed to eliminate infection, relieve discomfort, and preserve your natural smile.
Root canal treatment is one of the most effective ways to stop tooth pain and protect a tooth that might otherwise be lost. Our team focuses on making treatment as comfortable and stress-free as possible while helping you return to normal function and comfort.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
An infected tooth can cause a variety of symptoms. If you are experiencing any of the following, it is important to schedule an evaluation as soon as possible:
- Toothache pain that extends to the face, neck, or ears
- Pain while biting and chewing
- Pain in a chipped or cracked tooth
- Swelling of the face or gums
- Darkening of the tooth or surrounding gum tissue
- Painful sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
Don’t try to ignore or wait out these symptoms. An infected tooth will not resolve on its own and may lead to other complications if left untreated. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Moylan as soon as possible to get the care you need.
How Root Canal Therapy Works
Root canal therapy removes infection from inside a tooth while preserving the healthy outer structure. Once the infection is removed, the tooth is cleaned, sealed, and protected to prevent future problems.
Saving a natural tooth is almost always preferable to removing it. Root canal therapy allows many patients to keep a tooth that would otherwise require extraction while restoring comfort and function.
What to Expect During Treatment
Many patients are surprised to learn that modern root canal therapy is similar in comfort to receiving a routine filling. Local anesthesia is used to keep treatment comfortable, and sedation options may be available for patients who experience dental anxiety.
- First, we’ll use an anesthetic to completely numb the affected area for the duration of the procedure. If you suffer from dental anxiety, we can provide dental sedation to help you feel relaxed and comfortable.
- With specialized tools, Dr. Moylan will create a small entryway in the crown of your infected tooth. He’ll gently remove the infected pulp of your tooth.
- Then Dr. Moylan will seal the root canal with a dental composite to preserve the structure of your tooth.
- To complete the procedure, he’ll cap your tooth with a natural-looking dental crown to prevent reinfection.
Root canal therapy is an extremely effective method for treating an infected tooth. A successful root canal will resolve your painful symptoms and avoid the need for an extraction. After treatment, you’ll be able to eat and smile comfortably with your tooth protected from harm.
Comfortable Care for Anxious Patients
We understand that many people feel nervous when they hear the words “root canal.” Our team takes time to explain your treatment, answer questions, and ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. At the Alexandria Smile Center, patient comfort is always a priority.
Ready to Find Relief?
If you are experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity, swelling, or other symptoms of infection, Alexandria Smile Center is here to help.
Early treatment can often prevent more serious complications and help save your natural tooth.
Call (318) 545-7606 to schedule an evaluation and learn whether root canal therapy is right for you.