What Is Root Canal Therapy?
A deep cavity, crack, or injury can allow bacteria to reach the inner part of the tooth where nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue are located. This tissue, called the pulp, becomes inflamed or infected when exposed, often causing persistent pain, sensitivity to hot and cold, swelling, or pressure when biting down. If not treated, the infection can spread to surrounding areas, resulting in more serious complications or the loss of the tooth entirely. Root canal treatment at Hearthstone Dentistry offers a way to remove the infected pulp, clean the inside of the tooth, and protect it against future infection, all in one procedure. Using advanced digital imaging and precise techniques, Dr. Monica Chau performs root canals with a focus on efficiency and comfort, allowing patients to recover quickly and return to their normal routine with minimal disruption. This treatment is often the best option for saving a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. If you're dealing with extensive dental decay or damage that has reached the inside of the tooth, schedule a consultation at our dental practice in Houston, TX to learn if root canal therapy can help you maintain your natural smile.
How Does Root Canal Therapy Work?
Each root canal procedure at Hearthstone Dentistry begins with a comprehensive exam to assess the extent of the infection. From there, Dr. Chau can determine if the tooth can still be saved and which approach is best for your needs. After numbing the area, she'll make a small opening in the tooth to access the inner pulp chamber. She'll then carefully remove any damaged or infected tissue from inside the chamber and root canals. After cleaning and shaping the canals, she'll fill them with a biocompatible material to keep the tooth sealed. In most cases, the procedure is completed in a single visit and takes between 60 – 90 minutes, depending on the number of roots and the complexity of the case. Some patients may need a second appointment for additional cleaning or to place a permanent restoration (like a dental crown). We'll discuss all your options during your initial consultation at our Houston, TX office.
What Are the Benefits of Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy resolves the pain and pressure caused by an infected pulp while preserving your natural tooth structure. In many cases, it's the most effective way to prevent the infection from spreading and to avoid the need for tooth extraction. The benefits of root canal treatment include:
- Treats infection and relieves pain caused by an inflamed or infected pulp
- Helps preserve the natural tooth and avoid extraction
- Restores chewing ability and bite alignment
- Prevents the spread of bacteria to surrounding tissue or bone
- Usually completed in a single appointment with minimal downtime
- Followed by a crown to protect and strengthen the treated tooth
Hearthstone Dentistry Reviews
I absolutely loved the patient experience in the this office. I am new in the area and so l just did a goggle search and several dental offices pulled up. My spirit lead me to this office. From the moment l walked into the office l felt welcome. I had spoken with Tabitha earlier that morning to confirm my appointment and I recognized the voice when l walked in. She made sure my paperwork was completed and then introduced me to Pascha. She took all my X-rays and pictures of my teeth.. she was so gentle and kind, asking me if l was okay throughout the procedure. That is huge in my books because it showed she cared/cares. Dr. Chau and Pascha were amazing; they work so well together. They were engaging, as well as reassuring. They made me feel comfortable and safe in their care. Dr. Chau explained and reviewed all the X-rays and pictures. She stopped periodically to ask if I had questions. Dr. Chau and her crew on 10/24/2023 were phenomenal. I highly recommend you checking out Hearthstone Dentist . It’s full of joy.
Everyone is very pleasant. She has quite the uplifting and bubbly personality. Thorough in explaining what the procedure is and ask if I have any questions. Checks that you are doing ok while procedure is being done. Great dentist!
My first time at the dentist and this office made it such a joyful experience. The receptionist at the front desk was helpful and very kind. The dental assistant was patient and informative and the dentist was very thorough, answered all my questions and funny/witty. Great experience!
Very professional and courteous. Always professional, and always taking care of the patient.
I have been coming here for many years. The original dentist retired and I have been seeing Dr Chau since 2021 and she does an excellent job. She takes time to explain all she does and asked for me to ask any questions or concerns I have.
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Stop the Spread of Infection
Untreated tooth infections can lead to unnecessary complications, but prompt root canal treatment can relieve pain and save the tooth before more damage occurs. At Hearthstone Dentistry in Houston, TX, Dr. Chau performs every root canal procedure with attention to comfort, efficiency, and long-term results. Schedule a consultation with our team to learn whether this treatment is right for your symptoms and how we can help you preserve your natural tooth.