A root canal (also known as endodontic therapy) treats the inside of a tooth when the dental pulp becomes infected or inflamed. This typically results from deep decay, repeated dental procedures, or injury.

The procedure involves:

• Removing the infected or dead pulp
  
  
• Cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the root canal
  
  
• Sealing the space with a biocompatible material

Once the tooth is stabilized, we often recommend a dental crown to restore strength and prevent future damage.

Root canal therapy becomes necessary when the inner tissue of the tooth (pulp) is damaged or infected. Common signs include:

• Severe toothache or pain when chewing
  
  
• Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold
  
  
• Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
  
  
• Swelling or tenderness in the gums
  
  
• Pimple-like bump near the affected tooth

If you notice any of these symptoms, our team can perform digital X-rays and clinical evaluations to determine if a root canal is the best course of treatment.

At Bailey Family Dentistry, we focus on making your experience as stress-free as possible:

1. We begin by numbing the tooth and surrounding area.
   
   
2. A small opening is made to access and remove the infected pulp.
   
   
3. The inner chamber is cleaned, shaped, and filled with a special material.
   
   
4. The tooth is sealed and prepped for a same-day CEREC crown, when needed.

Most root canals can be completed in one or two visits depending on the complexity of the tooth.

Root Canals as Part of Restorative Dentistry

Root canal therapy is often part of a larger restorative dentistry plan. After the infection is cleared, the tooth is restored to full function and appearance with a crown or other restoration.

We also coordinate closely with our emergency dentistry services when patients come to us with urgent pain, swelling, or trauma.

Why Choose Bailey Family Dentistry?

Patients in Carthage trust Dr. Bailey for compassionate, skillful care and a conservative approach to preserving teeth. Our use of advanced technology—including 3D CT scanning and intraoral cameras—ensures precise diagnosis and treatment.

We also offer a cost-effective in-house dental savings plan, making procedures like root canals more affordable for uninsured patients.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is a root canal painful?: Modern root canals are relatively painless thanks to local anesthesia. Most patients feel significant relief after treatment.
   
   
2. How long does a root canal take?: A standard root canal usually takes 60 to 90 minutes. Some teeth with complex roots may require a second visit.
   
   
3. Will I need a crown after a root canal?: Yes, in most cases. A dental crown restores strength and protects the treated tooth from fractures.
   
   
4. What happens if I delay a root canal?: Delaying treatment allows the infection to spread, increasing your risk of tooth loss or abscess.
   
   
5. Is a root canal better than extraction?: Absolutely. Saving your natural tooth is always preferable. Extractions can lead to shifting teeth and require restorations like implants or bridges.

Book a Root Canal Consultation in Carthage Today

Don’t let tooth pain disrupt your life. At Bailey Family Dentistry, we offer comfortable, effective root canal therapy to preserve your natural smile and eliminate infection. Call 615-735-0600 or request an appointment online. We proudly serve Carthage and nearby areas at 102 Ervin Drive, Suite A, Carthage, TN 37030.