A root canal is a treatment to save a tooth that has an infected or inflamed pulp (the soft tissue inside containing nerves and blood vessels). Dr. Hickson carefully removes the damaged pulp, cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, then fills and seals it. This procedure eliminates infection, relieves pain, and allows you to keep your natural tooth.

Common signs include severe toothache, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, tooth discoloration, swelling and tenderness in nearby gums, or a persistent pimple on the gums. However, some infected teeth have no symptoms. Regular dental exams allow us to detect problems early before they become painful emergencies.

Root canals have an undeserved reputation for being painful. With modern techniques and anesthesia, Dr. Hickson performs root canals that are no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. In fact, the procedure relieves the severe pain caused by the infection. Most patients report feeling much better immediately after treatment.

Most root canals can be completed in one appointment lasting 60-90 minutes, though complex cases may require two visits. The time depends on which tooth is affected and the extent of infection. We'll provide a clear timeline during your consultation so you know exactly what to expect.

Dr. Hickson will numb the area completely for your comfort. A small opening is made in the tooth to access the infected pulp, which is carefully removed. The interior is thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and shaped. Finally, the space is filled with a biocompatible material and sealed. A crown is typically placed later to protect and strengthen the tooth.

Some tenderness is normal for a few days after treatment, easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it's fully restored with a crown. Most patients return to normal activities the next day. We'll provide detailed aftercare instructions and schedule your follow-up appointment.

Saving your natural tooth is almost always the best option. Root canal therapy has a very high success rate and treated teeth can last a lifetime. Keeping your natural tooth maintains proper chewing function, protects other teeth from excessive wear, and prevents the bone loss that occurs after extraction. It's also more cost-effective than extraction and replacement.

In most cases, yes. Root canal treatment removes the tooth's blood supply, making it more brittle over time. Dr. Hickson typically recommends a crown to protect and strengthen the tooth, ensuring it can withstand normal chewing forces. Front teeth may not always require crowns depending on the extent of remaining tooth structure.

Root canal therapy has a success rate of over 95%. With proper care and a protective crown, a tooth treated with a root canal can last a lifetime. Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene are essential to maintaining the long-term health of the treated tooth.

Most dental insurance plans cover a significant portion of root canal therapy, typically 50-80% after your deductible. Coverage varies by plan, so our team will verify your benefits and provide a detailed cost estimate before treatment. We'll help you understand your out-of-pocket costs and discuss payment options.

While rare, root canals can occasionally fail due to complex anatomy, new infection, or a crack in the tooth. If this happens, Dr. Hickson may recommend retreatment or refer you to an endodontist. Signs of failure include persistent pain, swelling, or sensitivity. Most issues can be successfully addressed if caught early.

Regular preventive care with Dr. Hickson helps catch decay early before it reaches the pulp. Brush twice daily, floss daily, avoid chewing ice or hard objects, and wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth or play sports. Addressing cavities promptly prevents them from progressing to the point where root canal treatment becomes necessary.