By Dr. Eastwood – Summerbrook Dental & Implants, Fort Worth, TX
At Summerbrook Dental, our goal is to keep your natural teeth healthy for as long as possible. When a tooth becomes badly damaged or infected, a root canal can often save it. Many people think this treatment is painful, but with today’s gentle techniques and modern care, a root canal feels much like getting a regular filling.
Why a Root Canal May Be Needed
Sometimes a cavity, crack, or injury allows bacteria to reach the inside of a tooth. This can cause pain, swelling, or sensitivity. If left untreated, the infection can spread and the tooth may need to be removed. A root canal stops the problem, removes the infection, and helps keep your natural tooth in place.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
- Relieves pain – Stops the discomfort caused by infection.
- Saves your natural tooth – Avoids the need for removal.
- Restores function – Lets you bite and chew normally again.
- Protects your smile – Keeps your smile full and healthy-looking.
What to Expect
During the treatment, the inside of the tooth is gently cleaned and sealed to prevent further problems. Most patients are surprised by how comfortable the process feels. Afterward, the tooth is usually covered with a crown or filling for strength and protection. With proper care, the treated tooth can last for many years.
At Summerbrook Dental, we focus on making every visit as stress-free as possible. If you have a toothache or suspect you may need a root canal, call us today. We are here to help you feel comfortable and confident about your dental care.
Root Canal FAQs
Do they put you to sleep for a root canal?
Usually no. Most root canals are done under local anesthesia — the tooth and surrounding area are fully numb and you stay awake. For anxious patients we offer oral sedation or nitrous oxide, which keep you calm without putting you under. True general anesthesia is uncommon for root canals but available with an MD anesthesiologist for extreme anxiety, a strong gag reflex, or specific medical needs.
How bad does a root canal hurt?
Most patients say it feels about like getting a filling. The tooth is fully numb before we start, and sedation is available if you are nervous. Most of the pain associated with root canals actually comes before treatment, from the infection itself — once the tooth is cleaned and sealed it usually improves quickly, with a few days of manageable soreness.
Can I drive myself home after a root canal?
If you had only local anesthesia, yes — it numbs the area but does not affect alertness or reaction time. A numb lip or cheek for a few hours will not stop you driving safely. If you choose oral or IV sedation, no: you will need someone to drive you both ways. We confirm which you are having before the appointment so you can plan.
What kind of dentist does root canals?
Every dentist is trained to do them, though comfort level varies with training and experience. Dr. Eastwood performs root canals on all teeth including molars. When a retreatment is needed on a previously treated tooth, he refers to an endodontist — a specialist with additional training who mainly handles failed root canals — to give it the best chance of success.
Is it better to get a tooth pulled or have a root canal?
Usually the root canal, if the tooth can be saved. Keeping your natural tooth preserves your bite, your jawbone, and the look of your smile; pulling a tooth and leaving the gap leads to shifting teeth and bone loss. Extraction is the better call when the tooth is too damaged to restore or the infection cannot be fully cleaned out — in which case the space should be replaced with a dental implant, bridge, or denture.