Root Canal Therapy in Tupelo, MS

When detected soon enough, tooth decay is addressed with a dental filling or another type of restoration to restore the damage and strengthen the tooth. However, if the decay spreads into the deeper layers and affects the inner portion of a tooth, you will likely need a root canal. Also known as endodontic treatment, root canal therapy at Tupelo Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry removes the damaged pulp from the tooth, sanitizes the internal portions of the tooth and its roots, and then fills and seals the tooth. General dentists Doctors Richard Caron and John Kenney may recommend root canal therapy to Tupelo, MS individuals because it treats the infection and can help save the tooth from needing to be extracted.

If you believe you could benefit from a root canal, we understand that you may have reservations about undergoing the procedure. Though root canals are a common dental treatment, patients often put off going to the dentist for a toothache because of anxiety and fear. Doctors Caron, Kenney, and our caring team will do our very best to help you feel at ease and always put your comfort first, regardless of your treatment needs. We use advanced endodontic techniques, and we also offer sedation dentistry services to help you feel even more relaxed when needing a root canal. Call Tupelo Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry to set up a consult with our team for more information on root canal therapy and our sedation methods.

An infection in the pulp of your tooth might be the result of a deep crack or cavity in the tooth or physical trauma. Some of the most common signs that you could have a tooth infection are tooth or jaw pain, swelling or a pimple-like bump on the gums, and changes in the color of the tooth. If the infected pulp is not treated, the pain and swelling can increase as the infection spreads into the bone surrounding your tooth roots. Schedule an appointment at Tupelo Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry at your earliest convenience if you feel or notice something abnormal in your mouth. If you have reservations or fears about going to the dentist, please do not hesitate to ask us about sedation dentistry to keep you calm and comfortable during your dental appointments.

Before your root canal visit, doctors Caron or Kenney will talk with you about the procedure and discuss your sedation options with you. We never want you to feel anxious, nervous, or fearful during your appointments at our office. Many individuals opt for nitrous oxide sedation (laughing gas) or oral-conscious sedation to help them feel more relaxed and at ease throughout a root canal procedure. Our team is very understanding of dental phobias and will try to help you make the appropriate decision on how to enjoy the most positive experience possible.

During the endodontic procedure, doctors Caron or Kenney will numb the area using a comfortable Single Tooth Anesthesia approach and then access the inner chamber of your tooth. Decayed pulp and damaged tooth structure will be carefully removed with special endodontic instruments. Next, the inside of the empty pulp chamber and internal portions of the tooth roots will be carefully sterilized to eliminate any bacteria. Once it is cleaned, the tooth is filled with a special material to seal and protect its structure. Teeth that have been treated with a root canal often require a dental crown, once fully healed, to strengthen and protect the tooth structure and restore proper function.

Depending on the type of sedation that was chosen, you might need to have a responsible adult drive you home after your appointment. You may experience some minor tenderness in your jaw, but this is a normal symptom and can be reduced with anti-inflammatory medications. Our office will schedule you for a follow-up visit so that Doctors Caron or Kenney can check to determine if the infection has been eliminated. Keeping up with daily brushing and flossing along with routine cleanings and exams can help to maintain a healthy smile after your root canal therapy.

Is root canal therapy painful?

With modern dental techniques and anesthesia, root canal therapy is generally no more uncomfortable than getting a routine filling. Patients may experience mild discomfort during the procedure, but this is typically well-managed with local anesthesia. Post-procedure discomfort is usually minimal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

How long does a root canal procedure take?

The duration of a root canal procedure depends on factors such as the tooth's location, the number of canals, and the extent of infection. Typically, the procedure can be completed in 1 – 2 appointments, each lasting about 60 – 90 minutes.

Can all teeth be treated with root canal therapy?

Most teeth can be treated with root canal therapy. However, if a tooth has severe structural damage, insufficient bone support, or inaccessible canals, extraction may be considered. A thorough evaluation by our team at Tupelo Smiles will determine the best course of action.

Thanks to advances in the dental industry, root canals can be a simple, effective procedure to treat and save an infected tooth. In conjunction with different levels of sedation, your root canal at Tupelo Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry can be free from discomfort to avoid further tooth pain and more serious complications. Contact our staff in Tupelo, MS to schedule a consultation with doctors Caron or Kenney to learn more about root canal therapy and other ways to improve your dental health.