Targeted Therapy to Remove Infection and Preserve Your Smile
At Danos Dental, we offer restorative root canals in Murfreesboro, TN. Root canal therapy, or simply “a root canal”, is necessary when decay or infection damages the inner pulp (where the nerves are) of a tooth. The procedure aims to save the tooth by removing the infected pulp, nerves, bacteria, and decay. The resulting space is then cleaned, shaped, and filled with specialized, medicated dental materials, restoring the tooth’s health and function.
Root canal typically requires 1-3 appointments, most around two. Before starting, we will take comprehensive X-rays of the affected tooth and carefully examine them. Dr. Danos will ensure your comfort with local anesthesia, isolate the tooth, and then create a small opening on the tooth’s surface. We will then gently remove the damaged or infected pulp tissue, carefully clean and shape the tooth’s interior to eliminate any remaining bacteria, and prepare it for filling and sealing.
Usually, a temporary filling restores the tooth’s function until the permanent restoration is complete. During your final root canal appointment at Danos Dental, we will remove the temporary filling and place a permanent restoration to strengthen and protect the tooth, restoring its complete function and appearance.
Why are Root Canals Performed?
Choosing root canal therapy is generally the preferred option to save a tooth that would otherwise die and require extraction. While some patients may consider tooth extraction a more straightforward solution, tooth removal can ultimately be more costly and lead to complications like shifting teeth and bite concerns. Root canal therapy has a high success rate and often lasts a lifetime with proper care.
Danos Dental provides root canals in Murfreesboro, TN, to address the following:
- An abscess on the gums near the affected tooth
- Prolonged tooth sensitivity
- Dental abscess or infection within the tooth
- Severe or persistent toothache pain
- Swelling and/or tenderness in the gums around the tooth
- Extensive tooth decay that has reached the pulp
- Injury or trauma to the tooth that damages the pulp
Following root canal treatment, it’s normal for the tooth to feel slightly sensitive for a few days as the inflammation subsides. You will receive detailed post-operative care instructions. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene and attending regular dental check-ups will significantly contribute to the long-term success of your root canal treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals in Murfreesboro, TN
Is getting a root canal actually painful, or is that just a myth?
Modern root canals cause little to no pain during the procedure itself, since the area is fully numbed with local anesthesia — most patients feel similar to getting a filling. Any soreness afterward is usually mild and temporary, and the treatment itself relieves the pain caused by the underlying infection rather than creating new pain.
How much does a root canal cost in Murfreesboro without insurance?
The cost depends on which tooth needs treatment and the complexity of the case. Molars usually cost more than front teeth because they have more canals and are harder to reach. There is no set price. Dr. Danos can give you a clear estimate based on your tooth and needs.
Does dental insurance cover root canal treatment?
Many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost for a root canal because it is a reliable way to treat an infection and save your natural tooth. You will usually have to pay a deductible or co-pay, and some plans may require pre-authorization. Check your benefits with your insurance company or Danos Dental before your treatment.
What can I eat after a root canal, and how long is the recovery?
For the first hour after your root canal, avoid chewing and avoid hot or cold drinks as the numbness wears off. After that, eat softer foods and avoid biting down hard on the treated tooth until you get your permanent filling or crown, which usually happens at a follow-up visit in a few weeks.
Can a tooth need a root canal again if the first one fails?
Yes — a treated tooth can occasionally develop new problems months or even years later, often due to new decay, a cracked or loose crown, or a canal that wasn’t fully treated the first time. In these cases, a procedure called endodontic retreatment can often save the tooth a second time.
Where can I get a root canal in Murfreesboro, TN?
Danos Dental provides root canal therapy at 1211 Leaf Avenue in Murfreesboro, TN, serving patients near downtown Murfreesboro and throughout Rutherford County. Call (615) 893-6123 or schedule online to get an evaluation for your affected tooth.
