Do you suspect you may need a root canal? If you’re experiencing tooth pain, a dental infection, or if you've been told you need root canal therapy, the team at Midtown Dental is here for you, offering a gentle approach to make the procedure as comfortable as possible. At our comprehensive dental practice in Raleigh, NC, root canal treatment is focused on relieving pain, eliminating infection, and saving your natural tooth whenever possible.
What Is a Root Canal?
Inside every tooth is a soft inner layer called the pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When this pulp becomes infected or inflamed – often due to a deep cavity, cracked tooth, trauma, or repeated dental work – it can cause significant discomfort and lead to more serious health concerns when left untreated.
Treatment with root canal therapy removes the damaged pulp, cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, and seals the tooth to prevent future infection. The result: pain relief, a restored tooth, and the preservation of your natural smile.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Not all infections cause obvious symptoms, but common signs include:
- Persistent toothache or pressure
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums
- Darkening or discoloration of a tooth
- Pain when chewing or biting
- A recurring pimple-like bump on the gums
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, early treatment can help prevent further complications that can affect your whole-body health.
What to Expect During the Procedure
We understand that dental anxiety is real, and your comfort is our priority. A root canal at Midtown Dental is typically completed in one or two visits and follows these steps:
- Gentle numbing to ensure you’re completely comfortable
- Removal of infected pulp from the tooth’s inner chamber and root canals
- Thorough cleaning and disinfection of the interior space
- Filling and sealing the canals to block bacteria
- Restoration of the tooth, often with a custom dental crown
Many patients find the procedure feels similar to getting a standard filling.
Sealing Your Procedure with a Dental Crown
After a root canal, the tooth no longer has a blood supply, which can make it more brittle over time. To protect it from cracking or breaking, we typically recommend placing a dental crown to seal and protect the tooth. This strengthens the tooth, restores normal chewing function, and helps your restored tooth blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
Root canal therapy offers important benefits for the health and stability of the affected tooth. Top benefits of undergoing root canal therapy include:
- Relieves pain and discomfort
- Stops the spread of infection
- Preserves your natural tooth
- Prevents the need for extraction
- Restores normal bite and function
At Midtown Dental, saving your natural tooth whenever possible is always our goal.
Root Canal Care You Can Trust
At Midtown Dental in Raleigh, we use modern techniques and technology to make root canal therapy efficient, precise, and as comfortable as possible. Our team takes time to explain every step, answer your questions, and ensure you feel at ease throughout your visit.
If you’re dealing with tooth pain, a dental infection, or have been told you need a root canal, our gentle team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us restore your smile with care you can trust.
