When infection develops, you may notice a rapid onset of acute pain. While a toothache alone does not directly indicate root canal treatment is necessary, it is important to have an evaluation immediately.
Root Canal Austin
If you are experiencing pain when chewing, sensitivity to hot and cold, and swollen gums, you may be suffering from an infected tooth.
Dr. Mike Meek and Dr. David Tasch in Austin, TX 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 accurately 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 is a dental procedure that 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?
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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.
What Are the Symptoms of a Root Canal Infection? Here Are the Problems Endodontic Care Can Treat
Cavities and dental trauma can cause the soft tissues within your tooth to become infected and inflamed. When this damaged pulp is left untreated, it can lead to significant discomfort as well as other serious health concerns. Symptoms can include:
Extreme Discomfort
Swollen Gums
As the soft tissues in your mouth become more irritated and inflamed, your gums may appear red, discolored, and swollen.
Drainage or Pus
The appearance of pus around the gum line can occur when there is an abscess present. Some patients develop a fistula, or “gum boil” that will allow the infection to drain.
Bad Taste or Odor
Active discharge of pus from an abscess can cause a bad taste in the mouth. This symptom, with or without bad breath, can indicate a root canal infection.
Think You Have a Root Canal Infection? Contact Our Austin Dental Practice for Help
If you notice pain, swelling, an abscess, or other symptoms of a dental infection, schedule a visit with one of our dentists as soon as possible. The team at our Austin, TX, dental office can diagnose root canal infections and perform treatment on the front teeth.
If your molars are affected, we may refer you to a trusted endodontist. An endodontist has specialized training in this area of dentistry. Afterwards, you can return to our friendly team for a crown personalized to your exact smile.
Request a consultation online at anytime or call our office at:
(512) 458-6222
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®.
"As a patient for almost 12 years I could not be happier with the service and people at 38th St. Dental!!" - Perry Fowler, 2023
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.
"This office is the best..." Austin, TX, Appreciates Our Caring Team
Lydia Palace
Austin, TX
2023
This has been my dental office since 2011 and my experience on every visit has always been outstanding. Whether it is communicating with front desk staff, treatments by the dental hygienist or exams and dental work by Doctors Meek and Tasch, I am always treated professionally and with expertise. I have had fillings replaced, crowns made (both dentists do beautiful work) and bi-annual cleanings. This office is the best and I highly recommend them!
View on GoogleAndrew Johnston
Austin, TX
2023
They’re the best. I have had such bad experiences with dentistry for a variety of reasons at other places. But at 38th St Dental Im always happy with how expert, respectful the team is. Above all, every single person is professional, and focused on high quality. I always leave happy and confident with a super treatment and being treated super to boot. Can’t believe I’m saying it but I’m not scared of the dentist anymore thanks to y’all!!
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.
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.