Root Canals in Pineville, NC

Conveniently located in the heart of Pineville, Park Crossing Dentistry has been a trusted name in dental care since 1984. As a leading Pineville, NC, root canal dentist, we pride ourselves on our commitment to personalized care and patient satisfaction.

When there is an infection or severe damage to the inner pulp of the tooth, root canal treatments can help preserve your natural teeth and prevent the spread of infection and loss of the tooth.

With a legacy of four decades, Park Crossing Dentistry offers the best root canal dentistry in the Pineville area, treating even the most complex root canal cases. We prioritize patient comfort by providing a welcoming environment and utilizing advanced techniques for safe and effective root canal procedures.

Patients in Pineville, Fort Mill, Charlotte, and the surrounding areas should call Park Crossing Dentistry today to schedule their root canal treatment.

What Is a Root Canal Treatment? 

Root canal treatment, also known as root canal therapy or endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure to treat an infected tooth, preserve the tooth structure, and prevent further damage and other dental problems.

The inside of our teeth is made up of a soft tissue called the pulp. Since it contains a lot of nerves and blood vessels, it’s incredibly sensitive to damage and infections. Tooth decay, cracks, and traumatic injuries can lead to infections and inflammation within the pulp. 

If left untreated, the infection can spread to nearby teeth and gums and can lead to further complications. Eventually, it can result in permanent damage and loss of the affected tooth. However, with timely intervention, we can avoid extracting the tooth.

This involves the removal of the infected, damaged pulp and the filling and sealing of the inside of the tooth. Since the space where the pulp sits is called the root canal, the treatment is called root canal therapy. 

A root canal is a type of dental surgery used to stop the spread of infection and save the natural teeth from permanent damage. With proper care, a tooth that has undergone a root canal procedure can function normally for many years, effectively preserving your natural smile and oral health.

When Do You Need Root Canal Therapy in Pineville, NC? 

Root canal therapy is generally recommended in certain situations where the pulp inside the tooth has become severely infected, inflamed, or damaged. This can happen for the following reasons: 

• Deep Tooth Decay: When decay reaches the innermost layer of a tooth, it can infect the pulp, necessitating root canal therapy.
• Dental Trauma: Repeated cracks or fractures to the teeth due to accidents can damage the pulp and require a root canal. 
• Dental Procedures: When a tooth undergoes repeated dental procedures like multiple fillings or crowns, it can lead to an infection in the pulp.
• Abscess: The bacteria inside your mouth may penetrate the pulp chamber, causing an abscess and swelling that can only be solved through root canals. 

If you experience symptoms like toothache, heightened dental sensitivity to hot or cold foods/drinks, swelling in the gums, or tooth discoloration, it may be a sign of damage to the pulp. A qualified dentist can evaluate if you need root canal treatment or another dental service. If you have any of these symptoms, consult with a trusted dentist in the Pineville area. 

What Happens During a Root Canal Treatment? 

Here’s what you can expect during a typical root canal treatment at Park Crossing Dentistry: 

Initial Assessment and Diagnosis

Your dentist will begin by conducting a thorough examination of your teeth for any signs of decay, trauma, or inflammation. After confirming any visual signs of decay, your dentist will use the latest technology to take X-rays to see the full extent of damage inside your affected tooth. This will help them decide if a root canal is the best treatment for your condition. 

If there is significant infection and inflammation inside your mouth, the dentist may schedule a second visit for the actual root canal procedure. They may prescribe some antibiotics to reduce the swelling. 

Removal of the Infected Pulp

Once your tooth is ready for treatment, the dentist will first apply a local anesthetic to numb your teeth and gums. They will then place a rubber sheet (dental dam) to isolate the affected tooth. 

Next, the dentist will drill a tiny hole into the top of the tooth to gain access to the pulp chamber. Using high-precision dental tools, they will remove the infected pulp and scrape the root canal clean. To eliminate any remaining bacteria, antiseptics are applied to the root canal. 

Filling of the Root Canal

After clearing all the debris and tissue in the root canal, your dentist will fill it with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. The soft material acts like a substitute for the pulp and prevents new waste materials and your saliva from accumulating in the vacant space. 

Restoration of the Tooth

While a root canal relieves your tooth of the infection, in most cases, the tooth structure must be strengthened using a dental crown. A high-quality porcelain crown will be custom-made as part of your final restorative and cosmetic dentistry procedure to restore your full tooth structure.

What to Do After Your Root Canal Therapy in Pineville, NC?

After a root canal treatment, your dentist will provide a few guidelines to follow for the first few weeks. These guidelines are helpful, especially if you are using a temporary filling. 

• Avoid hard or sticky foods until the tooth is fully restored. 
• Avoid chewing, smoking, or drinking hot/cold liquids for the first hour.
• Brush and floss gently around the affected tooth. 
• Contact your dentist if you experience any discomfort or swelling. 

To ensure lasting protection for your teeth after root canal treatment, you should continue with follow-up dental visits as scheduled.

Alternative Therapy Options to a Root Canal

A root canal may not be the appropriate treatment for all instances of tooth decay and pulp damage. In some instances, your dentist may offer the following alternatives: 

• Extraction: If the extent of decay and damage is too high, tooth extraction is often the last resort. Your options after that include getting an implant or dental bridge. 
• Pulp Capping: If the patient is a young individual and the pulp is exposed but not severely damaged, the dentist can opt to cap it with a material like calcium hydroxide. 
• Pulpotomy: This procedure is generally performed in young children with undeveloped teeth, as it removes the pulp while preserving the root.

Choose an Experienced Root Canal Specialist in Pineville, NC 

At Park Crossing Dentistry, our experienced team backed by state-of-the-art facilities ensures dependable care for root canals for the Pineville community. With proven expertise and a commitment to excellence, our skilled dental professionals and the entire staff provide the highest quality treatment personalized to your needs.

Our advanced dental techniques and technology help us deliver excellent care and keep you comfortable throughout any procedure. Our caring and friendly staff strives to make your experience as comfortable as possible.
For the best root canal specialists in the Pineville, NC, area, visit Park Crossing Dentistry at your convenience. To schedule your appointment, call 980-217-8517 or contact us online.