When a tooth becomes severely decayed, infected, or damaged, root canal therapy may be the best way to relieve pain and save the tooth from extraction. At Southern Smiles in Poteet, TX, Dr. Jeffrey Jacobs provides gentle, effective root canal therapy using modern techniques designed to make the procedure comfortable, efficient, and stress-free. While many patients fear root canals, the truth is that today’s treatment is fast, virtually painless, and often the quickest way to eliminate tooth pain and restore your health.
If you’re experiencing toothache, sensitivity, or swelling, you may need root canal therapy—and Southern Smiles is here to help you feel better quickly.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a restorative dental procedure that removes infected or inflamed tissue from inside a tooth. This inner tissue, called the pulp, contains nerves and blood vessels. When bacteria enter the pulp—typically due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma—it can cause severe pain and lead to serious infection.
A root canal cleans out this damaged tissue, disinfects the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent further infection. Afterward, the tooth is restored with a filling or crown, allowing it to function normally for many years.
The goal of root canal therapy is simple: save your natural tooth and eliminate the infection causing discomfort.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Root canal therapy is often recommended when the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected. Symptoms can vary, but common warning signs include:
Persistent toothache or throbbing pain
Sensitivity to hot or cold foods that lingers
Swelling or tenderness in the gums
Pain when chewing or biting
Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
A pimple-like bump on the gum
Deep decay visible on X-rays
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait. Early treatment makes root canal therapy quicker, easier, and more effective.
What Causes a Tooth to Need a Root Canal?
Several dental issues can lead to infection within the tooth:
Deep Decay
Untreated cavities allow bacteria to reach the pulp.
Cracks or Fractures
Even small cracks can expose the inner tooth to infection.
Previous Dental Procedures
Multiple or large restorations can weaken the tooth over time.
Trauma or Injury
A blow to the tooth—even without visible damage—can affect the nerve.
Root canal therapy addresses the infection at its source, preventing the need for extraction and stopping the spread of bacteria.
The Root Canal Process at Southern Smiles
Root canal therapy at Southern Smiles is designed to be smooth, comfortable, and precise. Here’s what you can expect:
Comprehensive Examination & X-Rays
Dr. Jacobs evaluates the tooth using digital X-rays to determine the extent of the infection and plan your treatment.
Local Anesthesia
The area is completely numbed to ensure a painless experience. Root canals relieve pain—they don’t cause it.
Removing the Infection
A small opening is made in the tooth, and the infected pulp is carefully removed using gentle, modern instruments.
Cleaning & Disinfecting the Canals
The inside of the tooth is disinfected to eliminate bacteria and prevent future infection.
Filling the Canals
The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material to seal and support the tooth.
Restoring the Tooth
Most teeth require a crown after a root canal to restore strength, function, and appearance.
The entire process is typically completed in one or two visits, depending on the severity of the infection.
Is Root Canal Therapy Painful?
No. Modern root canal therapy is virtually painless, thanks to advanced anesthesia and gentle techniques. Most patients report that the procedure feels similar to getting a routine filling.
In fact, the pain you feel before a root canal—caused by infection—is far worse than the procedure itself. Once the treatment is complete, many patients experience immediate relief.
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy offers several valuable benefits:
Saves Your Natural Tooth
Keeping your natural tooth preserves chewing function and prevents shifting of surrounding teeth.
Relieves Pain Quickly
The procedure eliminates infection and inflammation, resolving pain at its source.
Prevents More Serious Issues
Untreated infections can spread to other teeth, gums, and bone, leading to more complex treatments.
Restores Normal Function
After a crown is placed, the treated tooth functions just like a healthy natural tooth.
Long-Term Protection
With proper care, a root canal–treated tooth can last many years—or even a lifetime.
Aftercare and Recovery
Recovery from root canal therapy is typically quick and manageable. Some mild soreness is normal, but it usually subsides within a few days.
To ensure a smooth recovery:
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Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers as directed
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Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the final crown is placed
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Maintain excellent oral hygiene
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Attend follow-up appointments to complete restoration
Dr. Jacobs will provide personalized aftercare instructions to keep you comfortable and support healing.
Root Canal vs. Extraction: Which Is Better?
Whenever possible, saving a natural tooth is the best option. Root canal therapy:
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Preserves your natural smile
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Maintains jawbone health
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Helps avoid shifting teeth
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Supports better long-term function
Extraction may be needed when the tooth cannot be saved, but replacing a missing tooth is often more complex and costly than performing a root canal.
Schedule Your Root Canal Therapy
in Poteet, TX
If you’re experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity, or swelling, you don’t have to suffer. Root canal therapy at Southern Smiles can relieve pain, stop infection, and help you get back to smiling with confidence.
Call Southern Smiles today or schedule online to book your root canal evaluation in Poteet, TX. We’re here to help you feel better quickly and protect your long-term oral health.