Root Canal Therapy in Nashville TN
If you have a severe toothache, lingering sensitivity, swelling, or an infected tooth, root canal treatment in Nashville TN may be able to relieve your symptoms and save your natural tooth.
At Dental Design Studios in Nashville, TN, we evaluate painful and infected teeth to determine whether root canal treatment can preserve the tooth or whether another treatment would be more appropriate.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a procedure used to treat infection or inflammation inside a tooth.
Inside every tooth is soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. Deep decay, cracks, trauma, or other damage can allow bacteria to reach this tissue.
During root canal treatment, the infected or inflamed tissue is removed. The inside of the tooth is then cleaned, disinfected, shaped, and sealed.
The goal is simple: remove the source of infection while saving your natural tooth whenever possible.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Symptoms can include:
- Severe or persistent tooth pain
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swollen or tender gums
- A pimple or bump on the gums
- Tooth discoloration
- Swelling around a tooth
Not every infected tooth hurts. Dental X-rays and an examination are often necessary to determine what is happening beneath the surface.
Does a Root Canal Hurt?
Root canal treatment is performed with local anesthetic to keep the area numb. Many patients find that the procedure feels similar to having a filling.
Some tenderness after treatment is normal and generally improves as the area heals.
Root Canal vs. Tooth Extraction
When a damaged tooth can be predictably restored, preserving the natural tooth may be an option.
However, extraction may be recommended if a tooth is severely fractured, has inadequate remaining tooth structure, or cannot be predictably restored.
Our dentists can evaluate the tooth and discuss the advantages and limitations of each option.
Do I Need a Crown After a Root Canal?
Many back teeth require a crown following root canal treatment because significant tooth structure may already have been lost.
A crown helps protect the remaining tooth from fracture and restores its ability to function normally.
Root Canal FAQs
How long does a root canal take?
Treatment time depends on the tooth and complexity of the root canal system. Some teeth can be treated in one appointment, while others require additional visits.
Can antibiotics cure an infected tooth?
Can a root canal save my tooth?
What happens if I don't treat an infected tooth?
Where can I get a root canal in Nashville?
Tooth Pain in Nashville TN?
If you're experiencing tooth pain or think you may need a root canal, schedule an evaluation with Dental Design Studios in Nashville, Tennessee. We can determine the source of the problem and explain your treatment options.
OFFICE HOURS
*Thursday and Saturday hours alternate.
Contact us for our current hours.
Dental Design Studios
145 Thompson Ln
Nashville, TN 37211