Dentistry in Plano and Dallas, TX

Restorative and Implant Dentistry

Root Canals

Endodontics is the specialized branch of dentistry that diagnoses and treats internally damaged teeth. Each tooth contains pulp, commonly called the nerve, the main root canals, and the branches that connect the canals to one another. Endodontic therapy is called a root canal.

This procedure conjures up feelings of fear and dread in many, if not most, patients due to perceived issues of pain. But a root canal is actually a conservative therapy to save a tooth from extraction. And modern tools, techniques, and anesthetics make a root canal a surprisingly comfortable experience. Most root canals can be performed in a single office visit.

The Internally Damaged Tooth
Fractures, damage, or decay can cause irreparable damage to tooth pulp. This causes inflammation and/or infection that jeopardizes the tooth if not treated. A root canal eradicates early stage infection and is often the only way to restore an internally damaged tooth to health.

The Root Canal Procedure
During a root canal, Dr. Ragnell removes infected or diseased tissue in the tooth. He uses a state-of-the-art microscope and other forms of magnification to ensure eradication of all diseased tissue, even pieces too small for the human eye to see unaided. Many of the canals are difficult to navigate, but the use of modern tools allows Dr. Ragnell to thoroughly treat the affected area. After he prepares the tooth, Dr. Ragnell uses a biocompatible substance to fill the canals, then mounts a custom crown atop the tooth to restore strength and protect against future damage.

Using the microscope, Dr. Ragnell can also detect tiny fractures in other teeth that may cause problems down the road. These can be dealt with in a variety of ways to avoid future root canals. However, a root canal is the only to eliminate a bacterial infection in a tooth. It is also important to understand that an infected tooth will not heal on its own.

Call Smile ‘n Share It today to schedule your root canal appointment with Dr. Ragnell. Our Plano dental office serves the greater Dallas area with comprehensive dentistry for beautiful smiles and healthy mouths.