Initial Consultation

Before being approved for root canal treatment, you’ll attend an initial consultation at our Houston, TX dental office. During your initial consultation at Dentistry of Highland Village, one of our experienced Houston dentists will carefully assess your dental health and determine if a root canal is necessary. 

Your dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and gums, using X-rays or other imaging techniques to evaluate the condition of the affected tooth. They’ll also discuss your medical history, including any medications you are currently taking, allergies, and previous dental treatments. 

Based on the examination findings, our Houston dentist will provide a diagnosis and recommend a root canal if necessary. They’ll explain the procedure, address any concerns you may have, and discuss the expected outcomes.

Preparation

Before the root canal therapy begins, your Houston dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the affected tooth. This ensures that you remain comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. Next, a dental dam, a small rubber sheet, will be placed around the tooth to isolate it and keep it clean and dry during the treatment. The dental dam also prevents the entry of saliva and other contaminants into the treatment area.

Root Canal Treatment

Your Houston dentist will create a small opening on the surface of the affected tooth to gain access to the pulp chamber and root canals. Using specialized instruments, they’ll carefully remove the infected or damaged pulp from the pulp chamber and root canals. The tooth’s nerves and blood vessels are also removed during this process.

Then, the pulp chamber and root canals are thoroughly cleaned and shaped to ensure the removal of any remaining debris, bacteria, or infected tissue. In some cases, our dentist may apply an antimicrobial solution to the cleaned root canals to eliminate any remaining bacteria and prevent further infection.

Once the root canals are cleaned and shaped, they are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. This material seals the canals, preventing recontamination and providing stability to the tooth’s structure. After the root canal treatment, a temporary dental filling may be placed to protect the tooth until a permanent restoration, such as a dental crown, can be placed. This restoration will restore the tooth’s strength and functionality.