Tooth discomfort can disrupt your day, interfere with eating and sleeping, and make it difficult to focus on anything else. When decay or infection reaches the inner pulp of a tooth, root canal therapy may be the best way to save it. At Capital City Dentistry, we offer gentle, advanced root canal treatment designed to eliminate pain while preserving your natural tooth. Our goal is to make your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible while restoring your oral health and peace of mind.
Signs You May Need A Root Canal
A root canal becomes necessary when the soft inner tissue of the tooth—known as the pulp—becomes infected or inflamed. This can result from deep decay, repeated dental procedures, cracks, trauma, or untreated cavities. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent toothache: Continuous or throbbing discomfort.
- Lingering sensitivity: Reaction to hot or cold that doesn’t fade quickly.
- Swelling or tenderness: Discomfort in the gums near the affected tooth.
- Darkening of the tooth: Visible discoloration or change in shade.
- Gum abscess: Small pimple-like bump near the tooth.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek care right away. Early treatment can prevent further infection, pain, or tooth loss.
Step-By-Step Overview Of The Procedure
Root canal therapy may sound intimidating, but advancements in modern dentistry have made it a safe, efficient, and comfortable procedure. Here’s what to expect:
- Step 1: Examination and diagnosis: Digital x-rays or CBCT imaging determine the extent of infection and confirm if treatment is needed.
- Step 2: Local anesthesia: The tooth and surrounding area are numbed to ensure complete comfort.
- Step 3: Removing the infected pulp: A small opening is created to remove the damaged tissue.
- Step 4: Cleaning and shaping the canals: The inner canals are disinfected and shaped to remove bacteria and prepare for sealing.
- Step 5: Filling the canals: The space is filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha to prevent reinfection.
- Step 6: Sealing and temporary restoration: The tooth is sealed, and a temporary filling or crown is placed until the permanent restoration is ready.
How Root Canal Therapy Relieves Pain
Contrary to popular belief, root canal therapy doesn’t cause pain—it relieves it. Infection or inflammation inside the tooth is what causes discomfort. By removing the infected pulp and sealing the canals, this treatment eliminates the source of pain and prevents the spread of infection.
Patients often experience noticeable relief soon after treatment and can return to normal eating and speaking comfortably within a short period.
What To Expect During Recovery
Recovery from root canal therapy is typically quick and manageable. Mild soreness or sensitivity may occur for a few days, especially when chewing, but this can usually be relieved with over-the-counter pain medication. Tips for a smoother recovery:
- Avoid chewing on the treated tooth: Wait until the restoration is complete.
- Follow medication instructions: Take antibiotics or pain relievers as directed.
- Maintain daily oral hygiene: Continue brushing and flossing carefully.
- Report concerns promptly: Contact our office if swelling or severe discomfort occurs.
Most patients return to work or school the same day or the next.
Restoring Strength With A Custom Crown
After root canal therapy, the treated tooth may become more fragile over time. To restore durability, strength, and appearance, we often recommend placing a custom dental crown. Why a crown is important:
- Reinforces the structure of the tooth.
- Protects against cracks or fractures.
- Restores chewing ability and comfort.
- Blends naturally with surrounding teeth.
At Capital City Dentistry in Jefferson City, MO, we offer CEREC same-day crowns, allowing many patients to complete their entire treatment—from root canal to permanent crown—in just one visit.
Save Your Natural Tooth With Trusted Care In Jefferson City, MO
Root canal therapy is one of the most effective ways to relieve pain and save a tooth that might otherwise need to be removed. At Capital City Dentistry, we combine advanced technology, gentle techniques, and compassionate care to ensure your experience is comfortable from start to finish.
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Tooth Discomfort?
Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier, pain-free smile.