Older man gripping mouth in pain from root canal infection

Root Canal Treatment

If you are experiencing pain when chewing, sensitivity to hot and cold, and swollen gums, you may be suffering from an infected tooth.

At 38th Street Dental in Austin, TX, Drs. Mike Meek and David J. Tasch can provide relief through gentle, precise root canal therapy.

Once the infection has been treated, we can place a lifelike dental crown to repair your tooth and restore natural aesthetics and function.

Understanding the Root Canals What You Should Know About the Anatomy of Your Teeth

"Root canal" is commonly used to refer to the treatment of an infected tooth, but it more accuratlely describes the anatomy of a tooth. Let's go over what the root canals are and what dentists and endodontists mean when they say "root canal infection."

Diorama of a tooth with a root canal infection

What Are the Root Canals?

Beneath the enamel and dentin layers of a tooth is a chamber filled with pulp. This dental pulp is comprised of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. The root canals (also known as pulp canals) lead from the pulp chamber into the jawbone.

What Is a Root Canal Infection?

A root canal infection occurs when bacteria reaches the dental pulp and spreads through the root canals. Bacteria can reach the inside of a tooth due to untreated cavities or oral trauma that leads to a major chip or crack in a tooth.

How Root Canal Treatment Works

Root canal treatment involves the removal of diseased pulp from an infected tooth and the sterilization of the pulp chamber and root canals. The pulp chamber is then filled with an inert material called gutta-percha. Lastly, a dental restoration such as a crown is used to cap the tooth and protect it from further harm.

Why You Should Seek Immediate Root Canal Treatment

Besides easing pain, early root canal treatment can prevent bacteria from spreading beyond the pulp chamber and root canals into the jawbone and bloodstream. In addition to preventing the spread of bacteria through the body, a root canal can also save the affected tooth from extraction.

Steps of treating a root canal infection, showing the infected tooth, making an opening, cleaning the pulp, and sealing the tooth

Does Root Canal Therapy Hurt?

Many patients are under the impression that root canal therapy is painful. However, it is typically a straightforward process that causes no more discomfort than a filling. Additionally, we offer sedation dentistry to help patients relax during treatment.

Making Top-Quality Care Accessible With Fair Financing Options

Dr. Tasch and Dr. Meek prioritize your wellbeing — and won't settle for lower-quality care. By not accepting dental insurance, we are free to offer superior materials, techniques, and technology. Of course, we still believe in making treatment as affordable as possible. That's why we accept low-interest or even no-interest financing from reputable lenders like CareCredit®.

Patient-Centered Treatment That Puts You at Ease Why Our Dentists Are Trusted in Austin, TX

38th Street Dental has been serving the oral health needs of the greater Austin area since 1997. Our private dental practice is led by David Tasch, DDS, and Mike Meek, DDS. When you visit our advanced dentistry practice, you can expect the individualized treatment and personalized care you and your family deserve.
38th Street Dental interior and staff members

"I love Dr. Tasch and this practice." Austin, TX, Appreciates Our Caring Team

1

M. Manley

2023

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I love Dr. Tasch and this practice. Dr. Tasch truly listens, and I'm so lucky to have found him. Everyone at 38th Street is so professional and kind. They always listen to my concerns, and give me the BEST treatment plan, that I can afford.

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1

Danilo Moreno

2022

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Great customer service at all times. They are always very nice and on top of what I need. I used to be terrified of going to the dentist when I was growing up, but the entire team at 38th Street Dental made me forget about that fear. They all are awesome!

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Experience Natural-Looking Crown Results From Trusted Austin, TX, Dentists

Patients undergoing a root canal often worry about needing a crown, but not all do. Even if that is the case, we offer temporary and traditional crowns, so you can get back to chewing and smiling with confidence. When your custom crown is ready, it will blend in with your exact smile — much like these front crowns we placed for another patient.
before crowns
​Before Dental Crowns
After dental crowns
After Dental Crowns
If you're curious about more results, visit our gallery. You can also contact us for a root canal infection diagnosis and crown placement or call us at (512) 458-6222.

Making Difficult Dental Care As Easy as Possible

"I was able to get an appointment on short notice for dental emergency. Dr Meek as usual performed a thorough examination and diagnosed the problem. His assistant was very kind and performed XRAY’s which pointed the problem. I have to say that the entire office staff is very friendly and professional and that the phrase 'I hate to go to the dentist' doesn’t apply here." Francisco Rodriguez, 2023

Judith Found Help at 38th Street Dental And You Can Too

Many patients like Judith have avoided the dentist in fear of pain, stress, or judgment. When Judith made the decision to meet Dr. Tasch and the team at 38th Street Dental, she was treated with kindness and understanding. Our team is collaborative, making you a part of the treatment, from root canal therapy to crown placement. Experience the difference yourself at our Austin, TX, dentistry practice.

The Root Canal Therapy Process

​We offer both diagnosis and care for front teeth affected by root canals. For back teeth, we can diagnose your infection, refer you to a trusted local endodontist, and see you again for your new crown.
Our team can provide the timely, thorough care you need to protect your oral health and prevent the need for extraction.
Our team can provide the timely, thorough care you need to protect your oral health and prevent the need for extraction.

Root Canal Exam

When it comes to root canal infections, you don't want to waste a second. Our dentists can help you diagnose the problem with X-rays and an exam. 

Numbing Solution

To numb your teeth and gums, we will provide local anesthesia. Drs. Meek and Tasch are dedicated to your comfort and can provide sedation to ensure you are comfortable and relaxed throughout the entire procedure.

Accessing the Root Canals

Once you are comfortable, your dentist will gently access the affected root canals so we can remove the bacteria and pulp within these chambers. The pulp consists of soft tissues, nerves, and blood vessels.

Sterilizing the Root Canals

After the infected tissues have been removed, Dr. Meek or Dr. Tasch will sterilize and carefully widen the root canals of the tooth with specialized dental instruments.

Filling the Root Canals

This process allows us to fill the roots with a flexible, rubber-like dental material called gutta-percha that will maintain the internal structure of the tooth.

Dental Crown Placement

To rebuild the outside of the tooth, you may need a customized dental crown. We will provide a temporary while you heal from your procedure and wait for your final restoration to be created. Once your crown is complete, we can securely place it during your second visit to our Austin practice. This final stage will restore your full oral function and aesthetics.

Access Patient Forms For a Quicker Check-in

Your time is valuable, especially when it comes to root canal treatment. You can prepare for your visit ahead of time by filling out our patient forms in advance.

"I wouldn't consider going anywhere else!" Hear from Actual Patients in Austin, TX

1

John Zarr

2023

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Great dentistry! I have been a patient for over 20 years, and I wouldn't consider going anywhere else! Great dental chair side manner as well as a great view from window that I’m sure no other dental office has. I even referred my neighbor here for cleanings, and my neighbor now loves getting her teeth cleaned here after 20 years of avoiding other all other dental offices.

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1

Victoria Matthews

2022

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I am new to Austin and had severe tooth pain one night. They were able to get me in the next day! The doctor went through every step to figure out which one of my teeth was actually causing me pain. He didn’t quit after X-rays and one test to tell me “you’re fine” he believed me and found the root cause (pun intended)! If you’re looking for a new dentist look no further! 

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The team at 38th Street Dental

38th Street Dental

38th Street Dental in Austin, TX, utilizes the latest proven technology to provide you personalized dental care. Dr. Meek and Dr. Tasch are members of local and national dental associations, including:

  • The American Dental Association
  • The Texas Dental Association
  • The Academy of General Dentistry
  • The Capital Area Dental Society

To schedule an appointment, call us at (512) 458-6222 or contact us online today!

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