Root Canal Therapy

Mineral Wells, Texas

Our Services

At Dickerson Family Dental, we understand the bad rap root canal therapy has had over the years. Despite its reputation, the endodontic treatment helps save natural teeth and relieves pain rather than causing it. Dr. Dickerson and his patient-centered team use the latest technology and techniques to provide you with exceptional care and a stress-free experience.

Why Would You Need a Root Canal Treatment?

Inside every tooth, there is an area that contains the nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues called the pulp. Tooth pulp inflammation or infection can occur due to deep decay, trauma, repeated dental procedures, or damaged restorations, leaving the affected tooth at risk. Root canal therapy can save infected or damaged teeth, restoring their form and function.

If not treated, tooth pulp can lead to complications, including pain, facial swelling, an abscess, and bone loss around the tooth’s root. Harmful bacteria can enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of health problems. The only alternative to a needed root canal is to have the tooth extracted, but that’s always our last resort. Depending on the location of your tooth and your unique needs, we may recommend replacing it with a dental bridge or implant to prevent bone loss and complications that follow tooth loss.

What Is the Root Canal Procedure?

We start by capturing 3D images of your teeth and the surrounding structures using our state-of-the-art CBCT unit. These images help us evaluate your nerve pathways, sinuses, bone, tooth roots, soft tissues, and more. CBCT scans also help us identify the extent of damage or infection and detect hidden root canals or abnormalities. We use this information to plan your treatment, lowering the risk of complications and ensuring the best possible outcomes.

Your root canal procedure will begin by numbing the area with a local anesthetic for your comfort. We are also happy to offer nitrous oxide and oral sedation, if needed, to help you feel calm and relaxed during treatment.

Once you are ready, Dr. Dickerson will make a tiny opening in the affected tooth’s crown and remove the damaged tooth pulp. He will clean, disinfect, and reshape the root canals before filling them with a rubber-like material known as gutta-percha. The last step is sealing the tooth with a temporary filling to prevent reinfection.

What Happens After Your Root Canal Treatment?

A root canal treatment removes the tooth’s nerves and blood supply, leaving it brittle and more likely to fracture. That’s why we typically recommend placing a dental crown for protection. We create aesthetic restorations from the highest quality materials, including zirconia, to deliver seamless results.

What Are the Benefits of Root Canal Therapy?

Here are some of the many benefits of root canal therapy:

Relieves Pain: Root canal therapy relieves pain rather than causing it, so you’ll likely feel better leaving our office than when you walked in.
Preserves Your Teeth: The only alternative to a root canal treatment is having the affected tooth extracted, which is always considered a last resort.
Improves Your Oral Health: Root canal therapy eliminates infection, preventing further damage to your surrounding teeth and jawbone.
Long-Lasting: A root canal-treated tooth has the potential to last for many years, even a lifetime, with proper care and maintenance.