Why There’s No Need to Fear Your Root Canal

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If the term “root canal” fills you with dread, yourdentist in Houston, TX, can set your mind at ease. Though it may sound foreboding, a root canal is a simple dental procedure that eliminates toothache pain while saving your natural tooth. After a root canal, the affected tooth is structurally stronger and less susceptible to infection, which is good news for your overall oral health. Learn more about root canals when you schedule an appointment with the experienced professionals at Chloe Dental.

What Happens During a Root Canal?
When your dental professional performs a root canal, they remove the infection from the tooth. They use special instruments to clean and sanitize the pulp chamber and the delicate canals that go down into the gums. After the tooth has been thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, it’s sealed with a rubbery dental material that helps prevent reinfection. Your dentist will then add a crown for added stability. At this point, the tooth will be as good as new.

Is a Root Canal Painful?
Your endodontist will use anesthesia to block any pain you might feel during your procedure. For this reason, it’s no more painful than having a filling. Afterward, you may experience some soreness or discomfort for a few days. Still, over-the-counter pain medications in the first few days following your procedure are usually all that’s needed to make you feel better.

Benefits of Having a Root Canal in Houston, TX
By opting to have aroot canal in Houston, TX, you can save your natural tooth. This eliminates the need for pricey implants. You may also find it easier to bite and chew after your root canal. At Chloe Dental, we’re happy to discuss the many benefits of root canals for those who need them. Call today to schedule your appointment.

What Happens If I Have a Vertical Root Fracture?

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A vertical root fracture refers to a major crack in the tooth, one that starts at the very root and then runs to the crown of the tooth. If you have one, it was likely caused by either dental work (e.g., root canal, large crown) or trauma to the tooth. Despite the severity of the description, they don’t always cause pain or symptoms, and they don’t always show up on X-rays. We’ll look at possible symptoms as well as what will happen if you have one.

Symptoms of a Vertical Root Fracture

If you’re concerned about a vertical root fracture in Houston, TX, you might experience pain when eating, sensitivity to hot and cold, swelling around the gums, or loose teeth. In the most obvious cases, you can see a crack running down the tooth.

What’s the Treatment for a Fracture?

Unlike a fractured bone, a fractured tooth can’t knit itself back together. Depending on the location of the fracture, it may be possible for the dentist to place a crown around the tooth, though this is not always the case. If the root fracture is in a central location of the tooth, the only option would be to extract it.

Dentists in Houston, TX

A vertical root fracture may not be an easy condition to face up to, but it’s better to take the next steps than to take chances. If you’re looking for a dentist who can recommend the safest course of treatment, Chloe Dental boasts an expert staff that is here to help. With dentists in Houston and Katy, TX, our team is available to get you the care you need to move on from a fracture — whether that means you need a crown or a dental implant.

How Will I Know If I Need a Root Canal?

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Does your tooth hurt? It’s possible that you need a root canal. Knowing the signs and symptoms of a possible infection in your tooth can help you decide when it’s time to see the dentist. A root canal is an emergency procedure, so if you’re in need of one, it’s important to see the dentist as soon as possible! In this article, we’ll discuss what a root canal is, the signs of an infection, and what to do when you need treatment.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a procedure that your dentist will use when you have an infected tooth. During the root canal, your dentist will clean out the infection, then seal up the tooth to prevent further infection. When this is done, your dentist will put a cap on the tooth, called a crown, to protect the remaining tooth enamel.

Symptoms of an Infection

You may be able to tell if you need a root canal in Katy and Houston, TX by the symptoms that you’re noticing. Here’s what to watch for:

  • Constant throbbing in the tooth or jaw
  • Pain when chewing and biting
  • Sensitivity to hot and cold
  • Tender lymph nodes
  • Swelling around the tooth
  • Bad breath

An infected tooth can become so severe that it needs to be pulled. If you’re seeing any of the signs above, you need quick help from the dentist! To avoid a tooth extraction, see the dentist as soon as possible.

Make An Appointment, See the Dentist

As your dentist in Katy and Houston, TX, the professionals at Chloe Dental can help you determine when it’s time to get a root canal. We can help! If you’re experiencing a toothache, call today to make an appointment.

Is There Any Way to Prevent a Root Canal? 

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 A root canal is an emergency dental procedure. A root canal is necessary for patients suffering from an infection in the pulpy part of the tooth. During the root canal, the dentist drills into the tooth and cleans out the infection, then the dentist seals the tooth and caps it with a crown.

An infection in the tooth is a problem that can be avoided, but only with good oral hygiene and good dental care. As your dentist in Katy and Houston, TX, the professionals at Chloe Dental can help you take care of your teeth and avoid a root canal procedure. Here’s what you need to know.

Take Good Care of Your Teeth

Brush your teeth twice per day, and floss your teeth once daily. Get a tutorial from your dentist at your next visit to find out how to best brush your teeth and floss.

Visit the Dentist Every 6 Months

Make a dental appointment every six months unless your dentist indicates you should do it differently.

Know the Signs of a Problem

Watch for signs that your tooth is infected or could become infected.

  • Pain in the tooth
  • Sensitivity to heat and cold
  • Swelling around the tooth
  • Discoloration of the tooth
  • Tooth is loose
  • The tooth has a crack in it

If you notice any of the above symptoms, see a dentist as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment.

See the Dentist in Houston, TX 

Ultimately, it’s up to you to take care of your teeth and avoid a problem like a root canal in Katy and Houston TX. To have your next dentist appointment, contact Chloe Dental today to make an appointment.

Will My Root Canal Hurt? And Other Frequently Asked Questions

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Root canals are unpopular procedures. Many patients assume that root canals hurt! The truth is that a root canal is a procedure that many patients undergo when they’re already in pain because of an infection in their tooth. If you have questions about root canals, this FAQ will answer your questions and prepare you for this procedure.

Will My Root Canal Hurt?

When you go to the dentist needing a root canal, your tooth will likely hurt. The root canal stops the pain! In fact, the procedure itself shouldn’t hurt that much because the dentist in Katy & Houston TX will numb the area before beginning. Once the numbing agent wears off, you may experience some discomfort for a little while after the procedure is over. This should clear up quickly.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a procedure that dentists turn to when the pulp inside the tooth has become infected. To perform a root canal, your dentist will clean out the infected material inside the tooth.

Next, your dentist will destroy any remaining infection, then they’ll fill the tooth with sealant. Finally, your dentist will cover the remaining tooth with a crown. The crown will prevent the remaining tooth enamel from becoming cracked or damaged.

How Can I Tell If I Need a Root Canal?

Root canals are necessary when you have a tooth infection. The symptoms of a tooth infection are similar to other problems. The easiest way to know whether you need a root canal in Katy & Houston TX is to contact your dentist. If you’re in pain, don’t wait to see the dentist. Get help! Call Chloe Dental today to make an appointment.

Root Causes of Dental Sensitivity – Why do my teeth hurt?

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While common, when your teeth feel more sensitive than usual, the problem can be a little alarming. Thankfully, dental sensitivity is not usually a problem that has a major underlying cause. Here is a look at some of the most common causes of teeth sensitivity that you may want to speak to your Katy, TX family dentist about when you go in for a checkup.

Undiagnosed Decay

One of the first problems a dentist will look for when you visit with a complaint of teeth sensitivity is signs of decay. Even if you do not visually find decay, this does not always mean there are no problems present. Something as simple as a cavity between your teeth or just below the gum line can cause heightened sensitivity.

Acidic Food Exposure

Over-exposure to acidic foods and beverages can be behind teeth sensitivity issues. Acidic foods like citrus fruits, certain types of candy, and even tea can deteriorate tooth enamel over time.

Certain Whitening Products

Certain whitening products and agents can cause issues with dental sensitivity. However, these issues are usually temporary and can occur even with professional whitening treatments at the dentist.

Forceful Brushing

In some cases, forceful brushing can be the culprit behind dental sensitivity. When you get too aggressive with your toothbrush, you can actually wear away the protective enamel on your teeth and this can lead to sensitivity.

Talk to a Katy, TX Dentist for Help with Dental Sensitivity

Dental sensitivity is not always a sign of a major problem. However, this is an oral health issue that you should discuss with a dentist in Katy, TX. If you are experiencing ongoing dental sensitivity, be sure to reach out to us at Chloe Dental to schedule an appointment.

What is a Root Canal, Exactly? 

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When your dentist in Houston, TX tells you a root canal is needed, you may wonder what this means. A procedure that sounds painful and expensive, a root canal is an important dental procedure to keep your teeth in great shape. As for exactly what it is, here’s what you need to know.

Purpose of a Root Canal

When you have a root canal, your dentist is seeking to save your natural tooth by eliminating bacteria from an infected root canal area of your tooth and preventing reinfection. To do so, infected or inflamed pulp from your tooth is removed, then the inside of your tooth is cleaned and disinfected. Finally, your tooth is filled and sealed, keeping bacteria from reentering.

Is a Root Canal Painful?

Thanks to modern dental technology, getting a root canal in Houston, TX today is much the same as getting a tooth filled. Usually completed in no more than two appointments, it is a relatively painless procedure.

What are the Advantages of Getting a Root Canal?

When your dentist performs a root canal and is able to save your natural tooth, you will reap numerous advantages. These typically include a continued natural appearance of your teeth, normal and painless chewing, normal teeth sensation and biting force, and helping to protect your other teeth from excessive strain or wear.

Do I Really Need a Root Canal?

If you have a cracked tooth that is very sensitive to hot and cold sensations, have a tooth with a deep cavity, or have severe pain when chewing or biting, chances are a root canal is needed.

Since a root canal is relatively pain-free, usually covered by insurance, and will still let you resume your normal tasks shortly after leaving your dentist’s office, don’t delay getting this important procedure if recommended by your dentist.

How Do You Know if You Need a Root Canal? Here Are 7 Signs.

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Wondering how do you know if you need a root canal? Read our article and learn seven telltale signs that you might need to pay a visit to the dentist.

Toothaches are as excruciatingly painful as they are common. An outstanding 90% of adults in the US have tooth decay that causes toothaches.

Many people throw around the term root canal in the event of the slightest sign of a toothache. It’s highly unlikely for the average person to determine when they need a root canal. That said, your best bet in knowing whether you need one is seeing the dentist.

So how do you know if you need a root canal? A root canal is way different from a dental filling. While you can easily tell you need a filling, a root canal is a very different case.

It’s not easy to tell whether you need a root canal. There are, however, some telltale signs that you need a root canal. Read on to find out seven indicators that you made need a root canal.

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure that eliminates bacteria from the root of the tooth. The procedure is very delicate, and only a professional can undertake it.

That said, the procedure is very straightforward and won’t take more than half an hour. The dentist carefully removes the pulp of the infected tooth. Next, the dentist cleans and disinfects the tooth.

A root canal ensures the tooth doesn’t get reinfected. It also saves the natural tooth from requiring replacement or removal.

What Takes Place During a Root Canal?

The procedure is virtually painless and doesn’t take long. After the procedure, you’ll have relief from the pain and a healthy tooth. The procedure usually requires two sessions to be complete.

  • First, the dentist administers local anesthesia using a needle. The needle is pretty small, so you don’t have to worry. You’ll feel a slight pinch before the area around the tooth numbs.
  • The doctor then places a dental dam on the infected tooth. This procedure is not mandatory.
  • Next, the dentist creates a small opening on the top of the tooth. The dentist uses a very small drill to do so. In doing so, he gets access to the inner parts of the tooth.
  • The dentist then clears the damaged pulp and debris from inside the tooth with a small file. This step is the basis of a root canal.
  • With the same file, the doctor may also shape your tooth’s inner chamber. They’ll then use pressurized water to irrigate the chamber and remove any remaining pulp.
  • The dentist might also wash the chamber with an anti-bacterial solution to disinfect the inner tooth.
  • After the dentist thoroughly cleans the tooth. They proceed to fill the now disinfected tooth. The dentist uses a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. A temporary filling is then used to close the opening.
  • After a few weeks, you come back to the dentist for a permanent crown. This permanently seals the opening on top of your tooth.
  • The dentist may place a post to support the crown in the chamber. This step happens for badly damaged teeth.

After the procedure, it is important to take good care of your teeth. Maintain a good oral hygiene routine and visit your doctor at least once every six months. Even without a root canal, it’s very important to visit your dentist regularly.

How Do You Know If You Need a Root Canal: Here Are Seven Signs

Getting a root canal is a scary prospect for some people. With the right dentists, however, the procedure is painless and fast.
Telling when you need a root canal isn’t as easy as you think. Wrong diagnoses are pretty common without help from a professional. On the flip side, it’s also easy to overlook subtle signs that you need a root canal.

Not every toothache needs a tooth canal procedure. That said, it remains important to schedule regular dentist visits. Some signs aren’t too obvious and only show up at advanced stages of a tooth infection.

Here are seven things that tell you it’s time for a root canal.

1. Persistent Pain

Among the most pronounced root canal symptoms is a persistent toothache. Hold your horses. Though, pain doesn’t necessarily mean you need a root canal. Pain does, however, warrant a dentist visit.

Most toothaches are unbearable, and you can’t ignore them. Most OTC painkillers barely work and aren’t too good for your liver too. You are better off having a dentist check it out once and for all.

Pain is your body’s way of telling you that something is wrong. If you feel sharp, intense pain while eating, then see your dentist asap. If eating becomes difficult because of pain, then do the same.

2. Temperature Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity isn’t uncommon to even people with healthy teeth. While tooth sensitivity is normal, there are some exceptional cases.

When sensitivity gradually increases with time, then something’s wrong. Sensitivity may morph into sharp, acute pain, which is a cause for alarm.

Infected teeth have sensitive nerves. This nerve sensitivity makes consuming even slightly hot or cold food very painful. When your teeth are overly sensitive, you may need a root canal.

Teeth sensitivity also shouldn’t last for weeks or months without improving. If it does, you may have a nerve infection beneath.

Sensitivity from a damaged tooth never goes away with brushing. For a permanent solution, consider a root canal.

3. Tooth Discoloration

Don’t you hate it when your pearly whites aren’t so white? Teeth stains may permeate to the nerve of your tooth.
Tooth discoloration may be an indicator of nerve damage. So when your teeth get stained, you could be heading for a tooth canal.

Luckily, there are plenty of ways to fix teeth discoloration. You can have a root canal while you’re at it. You’re, however, better off getting the root canal first before fixing the discoloration.

4. Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is common with children and teenagers. Decay is common because kids love to indulge in sugary treats. They also aren’t very keen about their oral hygiene.

Decay is still somewhat common with adults. Neglecting oral hygiene and habits like smoking and drinking are common causes. Some adults also have a penchant for the sugary stuff, hence the tooth decay.

No amount of brushing can salvage a badly decayed tooth. When the decay reaches the nerves, then you’ll need a root canal.

5. Swollen Gums

Swollen gums that are sensitive to touch need special attention. Never ignore swollen gums or a bump in your gums.
Gum swelling might underscore problems with nerves beneath the gums. As such, it is important to have your gums examined. Doing so will determine the cause of the swelling.

If the gums hurt because of damage to the nerve, then you’ll need a root canal. A root canal may also be necessary if your swollen gums don’t improve with time.

6. Chipped or Cracked Tooth

A chipped tooth isn’t a pretty sight. Apart from social awkwardness, you also have to worry about intense pain. What’s more, it can expose the nerve to infections.

You should address the nerve infection. The bacteria infecting the teeth may spread through the blood vessels in the nerves. This spread may lead to other complications if not checked soon enough.

7. Too many Dental Procedures

Some people don’t have the healthiest set of teeth. For this reason, they may have had one too many dental procedures on their teeth.

While there’s nothing wrong with that, too many procedures may be bad. Teeth are pretty strong structurally. Despite their strength, they still can be worn out.

After too many procedures, your teeth may eventually give in to wear. A lot of dental procedures increase your risk for a root canal treatment.

Some dentists may conduct dental procedures improperly. If that happens, you are at a greater risk of needing a root canal.
It is, therefore important to only have the best professional dentists look at your teeth. In the end, one bad dentist appointment may lead to five more appointments. So be careful when choosing a personal dentist.

Don’t Risk It!

If you suspect you need special attention for your teeth, don’t wait up. Now you know what to look out for for a root canal procedure. An injured tooth is a one-way ticket to a root canal.

In case of any of these root canal symptoms, don’t wait until it’s too late. When it’s too late, you can’t salvage your tooth and you’ll have to remove it.

Always remember to get a certified dentist procedure or even check-up. There are plenty of quacks out there who’ll worsen things and leave your pockets dry.

Get a Root Canal Today

So how do you know if you need a root canal? Hopefully, this piece has given you the root canal symptoms.
If you need a quick and expertly done root canal, then book an appointment with us today. You won’t be disappointed.