Root Canal Treatment

At McKinney Dental, we understand that the thought of undergoing root canal treatment can be intimidating for many patients. However, root canal therapy is a safe and effective procedure designed to alleviate pain, save damaged teeth, and preserve your natural smile. Dr. Mary Zoe Collier DDS and our compassionate team are dedicated to providing gentle root canal treatment to help you maintain optimal oral health and restore your smile’s function and comfort.

What is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure performed to treat infection or damage within the pulp of a tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue located inside the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, trauma, or repeated dental procedures, root canal treatment may be necessary to save the tooth from extraction.

The Root Canal Procedure:

1.  Assessment and Diagnosis: Before performing root canal treatment, Dr. Collier will conduct a thorough examination of the affected tooth, including X-rays, to assess the extent of damage and determine if root canal therapy is the appropriate course of action.
2.  Anesthesia: To ensure your comfort throughout the procedure, local anesthesia will be administered to numb the tooth and surrounding tissues. In some cases, sedation options may be available for patients with dental anxiety or complex root canal cases.
3.  Access and Cleaning: Dr. Collier will create a small opening in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals. The infected or damaged pulp will be carefully removed, and the canals will be cleaned, shaped, and disinfected to remove bacteria and debris.
4.  Filling and Sealing: Once the root canals have been cleaned and shaped, they will be filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha to seal off the space and prevent reinfection. The access opening in the crown of the tooth will be sealed with a temporary or permanent filling to protect the tooth’s structure.
5.  Restoration: In most cases, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment will require a dental crown to strengthen and protect it from further damage. Dr. Collier will discuss your options for permanent restoration to restore the tooth’s function and aesthetics.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment:

•   Relieves dental pain and discomfort associated with infected or damaged teeth
•   Saves the natural tooth from extraction, preserving your smile’s appearance and function
•   Prevents the spread of infection to surrounding teeth and tissues
•   Restores oral health and allows you to chew, speak, and smile with confidence

Aftercare and Recovery:

After root canal treatment, it’s normal to experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications and cold compresses. Dr. Collier will provide specific instructions for caring for your tooth and may recommend a follow-up appointment to monitor your healing progress.

Schedule Your Consultation:

If you are experiencing dental pain or suspect you may need root canal treatment, don’t delay seeking care. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Mary Zoe Collier DDS at McKinney Dental today. Our team will assess your oral health needs, discuss your treatment options, and provide the compassionate care you deserve to restore your smile’s health and comfort.