Skip to main content

Root Canals

Walker Family Dentistry -  - General Dentistry

Walker Family Dentistry

General Dentistry located in Fort Gibson, OK

Men and women who learn they need a root canal often become anxious anticipating the procedure. The experienced dental team at Walker Family Dentistry wants you to know a root canal doesn’t have to be an anxiety-ridden, excessively painful experience. The professional dental team at Walker Family Dentistry in Fort Gibson, Oklahoma, is well-trained to perform root canals and does so on a routine basis. Call or book an appointment online if you’re worried about a root canal treatment.

Root Canals Q & A

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a dental treatment that saves and repairs an infected tooth. If your tooth becomes severely infected from inside, one of the experienced dentists at Walker Family Dentistry removes the bacteria and any dying or dead tissue. In doing so, they are able to save your tooth and soothe your pain.


How can the root of a tooth become infected?

An untreated cavity or oral injury can cause infection in the tissue and roots of your teeth. The infected tissue may enter the root or pulp of the tooth if you put off going to the dentist. If the infection develops any further this can lead to many other issues, so make sure you seek help.


How do I know if I have an infected tooth?

An infected tooth can cause pain very quickly, particularly if you don't address it soon enough. Some typical symptoms of an infected tooth include:


  • Inflamed gums
  • Tooth soreness while chewing
  • Intense tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
  • Unpleasant breath
  • Pus coming from around the tooth
  • Painful throbbing in your mouth or jaw
  • Tooth darkening in color
  • A small pimple-like bump on your gum


What is the procedure for a root canal?

Typically, one of the highly skilled dentists at Walker Family Dentistry can take care of your tooth in one or two visits. You may first need X-rays so the dentist can judge the magnitude of damage to the tooth needing a root canal.

At your appointment, one of the dentists at Walker Family Dentistry uses a needle to numb the area with a local anesthetic. Every now and then, they put a small sheet of rubber, or dental dam, around the tooth to protect it and keep it clean during the procedure. After anesthesia is applied, the dentist makes a tiny cut in your tooth to reach the diseased area within the root.

After this, your dentist uses small files to remove the damaged and diseased pulp and irrigates the area with water to wash away any debris. Until you return for a permanent crown, your dentist either seals the tooth or applies a temporary filling.

If you have any signs or symptoms of a tooth infection, call Walker Family Dentistry or schedule a consultation online.

Services