Root Canal Treatment in Jackson, TN
Root canals have a reputation that far exceeds the reality — at McLemore & McLemore, DDS, our patients consistently tell us the procedure was much easier than they expected. When the inner pulp of a tooth becomes infected or inflamed, root canal therapy is the most effective way to relieve pain, eliminate infection, and save the tooth. Call us at (731) 424-2651 or contact us if you are experiencing tooth pain or suspect you may need treatment.
When Is a Root Canal Necessary?
A root canal becomes necessary when decay, bacteria, or trauma penetrates deep enough into a tooth to reach the pulp — the soft inner tissue that contains nerves and blood vessels. Once bacteria reach the pulp, infection sets in, and the resulting inflammation and pressure on the nerve is often the source of significant tooth pain. Left untreated, the infection can spread to surrounding bone and neighboring teeth, creating a much larger and more complex problem.
Common signs that a root canal may be needed include a severe, persistent toothache; prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold; pain when biting or chewing; swelling or tenderness in the gums near the affected tooth; and discoloration of the tooth. In some cases, the tooth may be asymptomatic and the infection identified only through digital X-rays during a routine cleaning and exam.
What Happens During Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy at McLemore & McLemore, DDS is performed under local anesthesia and is designed to be as comfortable as possible. Once the area is numb, our dentist creates a small access opening in the top of the tooth and carefully removes the infected or inflamed pulp tissue from the root canals. The canals are then cleaned, shaped, and disinfected to eliminate all traces of bacteria.
After cleaning, the canals are filled and sealed with a biocompatible material to prevent reinfection. In most cases, a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy will need a porcelain crown placed afterward to restore its strength and protect it from fracture, since the tooth becomes more brittle after the pulp is removed. Your dentist at McLemore & McLemore, DDS will discuss the full treatment plan with you so you know exactly what to expect.
The alternative to root canal therapy is extraction, but preserving your natural tooth is almost always the better outcome. Tooth loss leads to bone loss, shifting of adjacent teeth, and the need for dental implants or a fixed bridge to restore function. Root canal therapy allows you to keep your natural tooth for years to come.
If you are experiencing tooth pain or have been told you may need a root canal, contact McLemore & McLemore, DDS in Jackson, TN today at (731) 424-2651.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals
Are root canals painful?
Root canals are performed under local anesthesia, so you should feel no pain during the procedure. In fact, the purpose of a root canal is to relieve the pain caused by infection. Most patients report that the procedure itself is no more uncomfortable than having a tooth filled. Some mild soreness in the area for a day or two after treatment is normal.
What are the signs I might need a root canal?
Common warning signs include severe toothache, lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, pain when biting or chewing, a pimple-like bump on the gums near the tooth, swelling in the gum tissue, and tooth discoloration. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact McLemore & McLemore, DDS at (731) 424-2651 promptly.
How long does a root canal procedure take?
Most root canal procedures are completed in one or two appointments, each lasting approximately 60 to 90 minutes depending on the complexity of the tooth’s root structure. Molars, which have multiple root canals, may take longer than front teeth.
Do I need a crown after a root canal?
In most cases, yes. Root canal therapy removes the living pulp tissue from the tooth, which can make the tooth more brittle and susceptible to fracture over time. A porcelain crown is typically placed after treatment to protect the tooth and restore its full strength and function.
What is the success rate of root canal therapy?
Root canal therapy has a very high success rate — studies show success rates of 85 to 97 percent. With proper restoration and good oral hygiene, a tooth that has had a root canal can last for many years or even a lifetime.
What happens if I don’t get a root canal?
If a tooth with a pulp infection is not treated, the infection will spread to the surrounding bone and potentially to neighboring teeth and other structures. This can result in severe pain, abscess formation, tooth loss, and in rare cases, systemic infection. Early treatment is always preferable.
How do I schedule root canal treatment at McLemore & McLemore, DDS?
Call us at (731) 424-2651 or visit our contact page to request an appointment in Jackson, TN. If you are in pain, let us know when you call and we will do our best to see you as quickly as possible.
