Root Canal Treatment

At Kingston Dental Care, we know that hearing that you need root canal treatment can cause some anxiety. The treatment has long carried an undeserved reputation for being one of the more painful or complex dental procedures.

In reality, modern root canal treatment is a highly effective way to save a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted due to tooth infection, and thanks to advanced dental technology and our compassionate approach, it’s more comfortable than ever.

If you're experiencing severe tooth pain, sensitivity, or swelling, a root canal could be the solution that relieves your discomfort and preserves your natural smile. Our experienced dental team offers precise, patient-focused root canal services designed to restore your oral health with minimal stress.

Why Choose Kingston Dental for Root Canal Treatment?

Experienced Dental Team

Our skilled dentists have performed countless root canal procedures with excellent outcomes. We are trained in the latest endodontic techniques and are committed to delivering care that is both effective and comfortable.

Advanced Imaging and Equipment

We use state-of-the-art dental tools and digital imaging to ensure accurate diagnosis and precision during every step of your root canal. This technology also helps us detect infection or damage that may not be visible to the naked eye.

Focused on Your Comfort

We prioritize your comfort before, during, and after treatment. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area completely, and we offer sedation options for patients who feel especially anxious. Most of our patients report that a root canal feels no more uncomfortable than getting a filling.

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Comprehensive Post-Treatment Support

After your root canal, we provide thorough aftercare instructions to support healing and restore full function to your tooth. If needed, we’ll schedule a follow-up visit to monitor your recovery or place a crown.

Transparent Pricing and Flexible Payment Options

Root canal therapy is a critical investment in your long-term dental health. We offer competitive pricing with no hidden fees and flexible payment plans to make your care as accessible as possible.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat infection or damage in the pulp—the soft tissue inside your tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. When this tissue becomes infected due to deep decay, a crack, or trauma, it can cause intense pain, sensitivity, and swelling.

Rather than removing the tooth entirely, a root canal allows us to clean out the infected pulp, disinfect the canals, and seal the tooth to prevent further infection. Once restored with a crown, the tooth can function just like any other.

When Is Root Canal Therapy Necessary?

Our dental team will always try to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible. A root canal is typically recommended in the following situations:

• Persistent Tooth Pain – Ongoing pain that doesn’t go away may indicate that the pulp is inflamed or infected.
• Sensitivity to Hot or Cold – If your tooth hurts when consuming hot or cold foods and beverages, and the pain lingers, it may be time for a root canal.
• Swollen Gums – Gum swelling or tenderness near a specific tooth can point to underlying infection.
• Discoloration of the Tooth – A darkened tooth could be a sign that the internal pulp is damaged.
• Deep Decay or Trauma – A severely decayed or cracked tooth may need a root canal to prevent extraction.

In cases where infection is left untreated, it can spread to surrounding tissue, bone, or other teeth, leading to more serious health problems. That’s why early intervention with root canal therapy is critical to address a diseased tooth or deep cavity.

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The Root Canal Procedure: What to Expect

We understand that you may have questions or concerns before undergoing a root canal. At Kingston Dental Care, we walk you through the process so you know what to expect at every stage:

Initial Consultation and Diagnosis

We begin with a full dental exam and digital X-rays to determine the extent of the damage or infection. This helps us decide whether a root canal is the best treatment option or if another procedure may be more appropriate.

Local Anesthesia

To keep you comfortable, we’ll numb the area around the affected tooth before the root canal treatment begins.

Removing the Infected Pulp

Your dentist will make a small opening in the top of the infected tooth to access the pulp chamber. Using specialized tools, the infected or inflamed pulp is carefully removed.

Cleaning and Sealing

Once the canals are thoroughly cleaned and shaped, we disinfect the area and fill it with a biocompatible material and seal the canal to prevent future infection.

Final Restoration

Depending on the condition of your tooth, we may place a permanent or temporary filling. In the majority of cases, a dental crown will be recommended to strengthen and protect the treated tooth. A crown is needed in a majority of cases, even if the tooth is not compromised, to prevent tooth fracture as a result of chewing.

Recovery and Aftercare

Most patients are able to resume normal activities the day after their root canal, although some minor soreness or sensitivity in the tissues surrounding the tooth is normal for a few days. Here are some tips for a smooth recovery:

• Take Pain Medication as Directed – Over-the-counter pain relievers are usually sufficient to manage any discomfort.
• Avoid Chewing on the Treated Side – Stick to soft foods and avoid hard or sticky foods until the tooth is fully restored with a crown.
• Practice Good Oral Hygiene – Brush and floss gently, avoiding the treated area if it’s still sensitive.
• Follow Up for Final Restoration –We will schedule a follow-up appointment to complete the restoration and protect your tooth long-term. This final restoration is frequently performed the same day as the root canal procedure.

If you experience intense pain, swelling, or signs of infection after the procedure, contact our office immediately.

Benefits of Root Canal Therapy

Root canal treatment offers numerous advantages for patients experiencing serious dental issues:

• Preserves Your Natural Tooth – Keeping your natural tooth helps maintain proper bite alignment and jawbone structure.
• Prevents Infection Spread – Removing the infected pulp stops the infection from spreading to surrounding teeth and tissues.
• Relieves Pain – The procedure eliminates the source of pain and allows you to eat and speak normally again.
• Restores Tooth Function – With proper restoration, a treated tooth can function just like any other for years to come.

Root Canal vs. Tooth Extraction

At Kingston Dental, we always explore conservative treatment options first. In many cases, a root canal can save a tooth that might otherwise be extracted. While extraction may seem quicker or more affordable initially, it often requires additional procedures, like dental implants, bridges, or dentures, to restore function and aesthetics.

Root canals are generally more cost-effective in the long run, especially when paired with a permanent crown. Plus, keeping your natural tooth helps preserve your smile’s alignment and strength, which is more difficult to maintain if you get the tooth extracted.

Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals

Is a root canal painful?

Thanks to modern dental techniques and local anesthesia, most patients find root canal treatment no more uncomfortable than getting a standard filling.

How long does a root canal take?

Most root canals can be completed in one to two visits, depending on the complexity of the case and whether a crown is needed.

Do I need a crown after my root canal?

In most cases, yes. A crown provides strength and protection, especially for back teeth that endure more chewing pressure.

Is root canal therapy safe?

Absolutely. It is a time-tested and safe procedure that saves millions of teeth every year.

Schedule Your Root Canal Treatment in St. Louis

If you're dealing with tooth pain, swelling, or sensitivity, don’t wait to get the help you need. At Kingston Dental Care, our experienced team is here to provide gentle, expert root canal therapy designed to relieve pain, eliminate infection, and preserve your natural smile.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation. With compassionate care and state-of-the-art treatment, Kingston Dental Care will help you get back to smiling comfortably and confidently.

What Our Patients Say About Their Experience During and After a Root Canal

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“The root canal I had was incredibly painless and easy!! The staff and doctor were flawless, giving me the best experience ever!” J.R.