Root Canal

What is a root canal?

A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures performed, well over 14 million every year. This simple treatment can save your natural teeth and prevent the need of dental implants or bridges. Dr. Smart offers the latest technology in root canal therapy. In a small number of cases, Dr. Smart may refer you to an endodontist.

At the center of your tooth is pulp. Pulp is a collection of blood vessels that helps to build the surrounding tooth. Infection of the pulp can be caused by trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks and chips, or repeated dental procedures. Symptoms of the infection can be identified as visible injury or swelling of the tooth, sensitivity to temperature or pain in the tooth and gums.

Are You Suffering Tooth Pain or Sensitivity

Pain in your tooth or gums may be a symptom of infected pulp. We can perform a Root Canal to treat the infected pulp, relieve pain, and save your natural teeth!

Call us: 325-677-2778

How is a root canal performed?

If you experience any of these symptoms, your dentist will most likely recommend non-surgical treatment to eliminate the diseased pulp. This injured pulp is removed and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. This therapy usually involves local anesthesia and may be completed in one or more visits depending on the treatment required. Success for this type of treatment occurs in about 90% of cases. If your tooth is not amenable to endodontic treatment or the chance of success is unfavorable, you will be informed at the time of consultation or when a complication becomes evident during or after treatment. We use local anesthesia to eliminate discomfort. In addition, we will provide nitrous oxide analgesia if indicated. You will be able to drive home after your treatment, and you probably will be comfortable returning to your normal routine.

What happens after Root Canal treatment?

When your root canal therapy has been completed in our office, we have the capability to restore the tooth with a build-up and crown the very same day. This technology eliminates the need for multiple visits to different offices.

In cases where Dr. Smart refers out, once your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent back to Dr. Smart. You should contact the office for a follow-up restoration within a few weeks of completion at our office. Dr. Smart will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, however, we are available at all times to respond. To prevent further decay, continue to practice good dental hygiene.

How much will A Root Canal cost?

The cost associated with this procedure can vary depending on factors such as the severity of damage to the affected tooth and which tooth is affected. In general, endodontic treatment is much less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth.

Smart Family Dentistry

5 out of 5 stars based on 5 Root Canal reviews.

Patient Review by Lisa M

Dr. Smart and her staff were amazing. She makes you feel comfortable and at ease. Great dentist.

- Lisa M

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Justin H

I was very nervous after not seeing a dentist for many years but they made me feel at ease and put my fears to rest.

- Justin H

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Isaac T

Dr Smart knows her dentistry very well and takes her time explaining the procedures and situations instead of trying to shove you out the door asap.

- Isaac T

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Steve F

The staff and Dr Smart always do a very professional job with a very friendly attitude. They make sure I am comfortable and at easy while they work on my teeth. Would recommend them to anyone who like me is very apprehensive about going to the dentist.

- Steve F

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Lola G

Being afraid of the dentist all my life, I came into Dr. Smarts office with the complaint of a tooth ache and I didn't know what to expect! When I got the diagnoses of a root canal needing to done to save my tooth, I was a nervous wreck! But Dr. Smart and her wonderful team took extremely good care of me! All the fears and anxiety I had went away and now I am pain free with a wonderfully done root canal! I didn't mention the best part, they were able to put a crown on the very same day! Such a convenience! Thank You Smart Family Dentistry!

- Lola G

5 out of 5 stars on