“Honest Care That Looks for the Best Outcome First”
Dr. Arthur calmed my nerves about having my tooth worked on. Everything went well. They explain everything and answer all your questions. Dr. Arthur and staff works with you and your insurance so you get good care.
~ Ashley C
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Millions of teeth are saved a year through root canal treatment. Also called endodontic therapy, this treatment is performed when the inner part of a tooth becomes infected from bacteria. During a root canal treatment, the inflamed and infected pulp of the tooth is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned. The tooth is then filled and sealed. A root canal can relieve your tooth pains and restore your smile.
How Do I Know If I Need One?
While a common sign of needing a root canal may be a lingering pain in the tooth, other symptoms can also alert you. You may need treatment if you experience:
- Swollen gums
- Darkening of the gums
- Intense pain while chewing
- A cracked tooth
If you think you may need a root canal, come into our office for a proper evaluation to determine the cause of your discomfort. It’s important not to leave any pulp inflammation or infection untreated, or else it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.
What to Expect
Dr. Arthur will provide you with anesthesia during the treatment to ensure you are comfortable throughout the entire procedure.
Most root canal treatments can usually be done in one or two appointments. During the first appointment, the infected pulp is removed. On the second appointment, the root canal will be cleaned. The tooth will then get filled and fitted with a crown.
After the procedure, the tooth may feel sensitive for a few days. You may feel a bit of discomfort following your treatment, but if you begin to feel intense pain, give our Houston office a call immediately to avoid any further problems.
Make an Appointment in Houston Today!
We want you to have a stress-free root canal experience. Our Houston dental office has even more tips on how to avoid any future problems with your root canal! If you are thinking about starting your journey to healthier teeth, don’t hesitate to come into our Houston dental office! Our staff would love to meet you and help you with the right course of action.
FAQs
You may need a root canal if the tooth pulp is infected or damaged. Common symptoms include:
- Severe tooth pain when chewing
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swollen or tender gums
- Tooth discoloration
- A pimple-like bump on the gums
- Deep decay or a cracked tooth
A dental exam and X-ray are required for diagnosis.
No. Modern root canal treatment is virtually painless. The tooth is fully numbed, and most patients compare the experience to getting a regular filling. Mild soreness afterward typically resolves within 1–2 days.
A root canal usually takes 45–90 minutes, depending on the tooth and severity of infection. Some cases may require two visits.
In most cases, saving the natural tooth with a root canal is the best option. It preserves chewing function, prevents shifting of teeth, and avoids the need for implants or bridges. Extraction is recommended only when the tooth cannot be restored.
After treatment:
- Numbness lasts a few hours
- Mild tenderness for 1–3 days is normal
- You can return to normal activities the same day
- Pain medication helps manage discomfort
- A crown or permanent filling is placed later
Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until final restoration is complete.
In Houston, root canal costs typically range from:
- $800–$1,800 for front teeth
- $900–$1,500 for premolars
- $1,000–$2,000 for molars
At OASIS Modern Dentistry & Orthodontics:
- Front tooth: $1,108
- Premolar: $1,255
- Molar: $1,500
Prices vary based on complexity, buildup needs, and crown placement.
In most cases, yes. Molars and premolars almost always require a crown to prevent fractures. Front teeth may only need a filling if sufficient tooth structure remains.
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