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."
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.
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.
"I love Dr. Tasch and this practice." Austin, TX, Appreciates Our Caring Team
M. Manley
2023
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.
View on GoogleDanilo Moreno
2022
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!
View on GoogleActing Quickly Can Improve Your Treatment Options
When you have a root canal infection, there are three potential outcomes for your tooth. They depend on your case, how soon you visit the dentist, and if the infection has spread beyond your tooth pulp.
If your X-rays reveal that the amount of infected pulp is minimal, then it's possible that your tooth's structure has not been compromised. It can also mean you won't need a dental crown or implant at all. Instead, the area will simply be cleared of infection and then sealed with a discreet-looking dental filling.
It's fairly common for patients to need a dental crown after a root canal. That's because the infection in your pulp can weaken the structure of your tooth, leaving it vulnerable to damage or decay. However, our Austin, TX, dentists can place both temporary and traditional crowns, giving you a strong and healthy smile again.
Even if your tooth cannot be saved, you can still have a functional, natural smile. Our dentists place biocompatible Nobel Biocare® implants in-house. Once the area has healed, we'll secure a crown to fully restore the tooth. If an implant isn't right for you, our dentists can also replace lost teeth with a traditional dental bridge.
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.
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.
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
John Zarr
2023
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.
View on GoogleVictoria Matthews
2022
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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