Endodontic Therapy in Tomball

When any part of your body is in pain, you do something. Maybe you take acetaminophen for a headache or a warm bath for muscle aches. Whatever the treatment, the result should always be the same—no more pain. That’s the point of a root canal, or endodontic therapy, too. This common dental procedure is designed to eliminate the pain of an infected tooth. Many people mistakenly believe that a root canal itself is painful, but nothing could be further from the truth. Tomball endodontist Dr. James Geer expertly performs root canal to cure a toothache and preserve the tooth.

Toothache Trouble

A toothache can be a sign of a minor problem, such as a seed or piece of food trapped between two teeth or under your gums—or a more serious problem like an infected tooth. In this case, a toothache may interfere with your daily routine as well as your ability to sleep at night. Whether the pain is throbbing, aching, sharp or dull, treatment is necessary.

Reasons for a Root Canal

The treatment you need is called a root canal. During this procedure, Dr. Geer uses special instruments to reach deep inside a tooth to remove the infection, debris and natural tissue. When a tooth is healthy, the core portion—called the pulp chamber—contains blood, lymph and nerve tissue. Together, these tissues absorb nutrients and eliminate toxins via your bloodstream. However, when a tooth becomes infected, these tissues begin to die.

How Does a Tooth Become Infected?

The human mouth contains millions of bacteria. Normally, they are kept in check by regular brushing and flossing, and they are kept out of the interior of each tooth by the protective layers of enamel and dentin. However, if a tooth is severely decayed or damage, those bacteria can migrate to the pulp chamber and attached root canals. Then, the tissues inside are no longer able to function and must be removed. Fortunately, a tooth’s structure can remain and be functional after root canal in Tomball.

The Root Canal Procedure

Once your tooth and surrounding gum tissue are anesthetized, Dr. Geer accesses the pulp chamber and root canals, removes the contents and all signs of infection, and disinfects the area. A biocompatible material is then inserted into the chamber to prevent recontamination and to support the remaining tooth structure. The chamber is sealed and a temporary filling is placed. In time, you’ll return to have Tomball endodontist Dr. Geer prepare and place a dental crown that will protect the tooth and restore normal function.