Hearing the words “root canal” might make you anxious, but modern root canal therapy is nothing to fear. At Siena Dental in Leander, Dr. Bruce Beheshtin and his compassionate team are dedicated to making your root canal experience as comfortable and pain-free as possible. In fact, root canals are one of the most effective ways to save an infected or damaged tooth—and with today’s advanced techniques, they’re much more comfortable than you may think.
Let’s explore what root canal therapy really involves and why there’s no need to dread this common procedure.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a treatment designed to save a tooth that is badly infected or damaged due to decay, trauma, or deep cavities. During the procedure, the infected pulp (soft tissue inside the tooth) is removed, and the inside of the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and sealed to prevent future infections.
Root canals can prevent the need for tooth extraction, helping you keep your natural tooth and avoid more extensive dental work down the road.
1. Debunking the Root Canal Myths
Let’s clear up some common myths about root canals:
- Myth 1: Root Canals Are Painful Modern root canal therapy is no more painful than getting a routine filling. With local anesthesia and advanced dental technology, you can expect a comfortable experience with minimal discomfort.
- Myth 2: It’s Better to Pull the Tooth Saving your natural tooth through a root canal is always preferable to extraction. Losing a tooth can lead to other dental issues, like shifting teeth, difficulty chewing, and the need for more expensive restorations like implants or bridges.
- Myth 3: Root Canals Take a Long Time to Heal The recovery time for a root canal is typically short. Most patients return to their normal routine within a day or two after the procedure, and discomfort is usually mild.
At Siena Dental, we prioritize your comfort, using advanced techniques to ensure a stress-free experience.
2. What Happens During a Root Canal?
If you’ve been told you need a root canal, you might be wondering what to expect. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process at Siena Dental:
- Step 1: Numbing the Area
Dr. Beheshtin will apply local anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding area, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. - Step 2: Cleaning Out the Infection
After your tooth is numbed, Dr. Beheshtin will create a small opening in the top of your tooth to access the infected or damaged pulp. Using specialized instruments, he will carefully remove the infected tissue and thoroughly clean the inside of the tooth. - Step 3: Sealing the Tooth
Once the tooth is cleaned, the space inside is filled with a biocompatible material to seal it and prevent future infections. In most cases, a crown is placed over the tooth to restore its shape and function. - Step 4: Recovery
After the procedure, you may experience mild discomfort, but this typically subsides within a day or two. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any soreness.
3. Signs You May Need a Root Canal
How do you know if you might need a root canal? Some signs to watch out for include:
- Severe tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, even after the source is removed
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums around the tooth
- A darkening or discoloration of the tooth
- A persistent pimple on the gums
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to see Dr. Beheshtin as soon as possible. Ignoring these signs could lead to more severe problems, including tooth loss or the spread of infection.
4. How Siena Dental Ensures Your Comfort
At Siena Dental, we understand that dental procedures can be stressful for some patients. That’s why Dr. Beheshtin and his team go above and beyond to ensure your comfort throughout your visit. We use the latest dental technology and gentle techniques to make your root canal experience as smooth and painless as possible.
We also offer relaxing amenities, a welcoming environment, and compassionate care to help you feel at ease from the moment you walk through our doors.
5. Why Root Canals Are Worth It
Choosing root canal therapy can save you time, money, and discomfort in the long run. By keeping your natural tooth, you preserve your ability to chew and speak naturally, maintain your bite alignment, and prevent the need for more invasive and expensive treatments like implants or bridges.
With proper care, a tooth restored through root canal therapy can last a lifetime, making it a wise investment in your oral health.
Schedule Your Root Canal Consultation at Siena Dental
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or other symptoms of infection, don’t wait to get the care you need. Dr. Bruce Beheshtin and the team at Siena Dental in Leander are here to provide expert root canal therapy and ensure your dental health is restored comfortably and effectively.