Fort Worth Dental Arts

Root Canal

Root Canal

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a procedure to save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. Our teeth have one or more roots and a canal that goes through the root of the tooth. This canal is the pathway that nerves and blood supply travel through. A root canal procedure cleans out that canal. This is done by clearing out any infection, sterilizing the canal, and then filling the inside with a rubber base material to seal it.

Why is This Necessary?

A root canal is necessary when there are very deep cavities or the tooth has experienced trauma.

Dr. Hoyt Fort Worth Dental

Root Canal

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Insurance

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Insurance benefits and policies can be confusing. To help, we have a dedicated insurance specialist available in person or by phone or text message to give you a simple and straightforward explanation of your coverage.

No insurance? No problem.

We are a self-pay friendly office. You’ll always know all costs ahead of time without any surprises and we’ll talk through payment options to find one that works the best for you.

*We also accept CareCredit.

Dr. Hoyt Fort Worth Dental

Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal

What happens during a root canal treatment?

Root canal therapy focuses on clearing infected tissue from inside a tooth so it can remain in place. After diagnostic imaging confirms the source of the problem, the tooth is fully numbed. The inner chamber is carefully cleaned, shaped, and disinfected. Once the area is sealed, the tooth is protected from future bacterial exposure. The goal is to stop infection while preserving natural structure.

How much time should I plan for a root canal procedure?

Treatment length depends on the tooth involved and how far the infection has progressed. Some teeth can be treated efficiently in one session, while others benefit from a staged approach. Molars and teeth with complex anatomy often require additional care. Your dentist will outline expectations after reviewing your imaging and symptoms.

Are problems common after a root canal?

Root canals are a well-established procedure with a high rate of success. Complications are uncommon but may include lingering inflammation or reinfection in rare cases. These risks are reduced through careful cleaning, sealing techniques, and follow-up care. Ongoing dental evaluations help ensure the tooth remains stable over time.

How should I manage the tooth once treatment is finished?

After treatment, the surrounding area may feel tender as tissues settle. Keeping the area clean with routine brushing and flossing supports healing. Patients are often advised to be mindful of pressure on the tooth during early recovery. Any concerns about sensitivity or bite comfort should be discussed promptly so adjustments can be made if needed.

Is discomfort expected after a root canal?

Mild soreness or sensitivity can occur as the body responds to treatment. This typically improves within a few days. Most patients find relief with standard pain relievers and rest. Pain that intensifies or lingers longer than expected should be evaluated to rule out irritation or bite-related issues.

What affects the cost of a root canal? Does insurance help?

Pricing varies based on the tooth’s location and treatment complexity. Teeth with multiple canals often require more time and precision. Many dental insurance plans help offset part of the cost when treatment is deemed necessary. Reviewing benefits in advance helps clarify financial expectations.

Are there options other than root canal therapy?

In some cases, removing the tooth may be considered if damage is extensive. While extraction eliminates infection, it also creates functional and cosmetic gaps that often require replacement. Root canal therapy is commonly chosen because it allows patients to keep their natural tooth whenever possible. Treatment decisions are based on long-term oral health outcomes.

Will the treated tooth need further dental work later?

Teeth that have undergone internal treatment often require additional protection to restore strength. Without reinforcement, they may be more susceptible to wear over time. Your dentist will recommend the most appropriate next step based on how the tooth functions within your bite.

How long can a root-canal-treated tooth remain functional?

With proper restoration and consistent oral care, treated teeth often remain functional for many years. Maintaining good hygiene habits and attending routine dental visits helps preserve the tooth and surrounding structures.

What are the risks of postponing root canal care?

Delaying treatment can allow infection to spread deeper into the jaw or surrounding tissues. This may increase discomfort and complicate future care. Addressing the issue early often simplifies treatment and improves the likelihood of preserving the tooth.

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Dr. Spencer Hoyt

Dr. Spencer Hoyt earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree and subsequently followed with a residency and Advanced Education in Dentistry at the prestigious University of the Pacific School of Dentistry in San Francisco, CA. In 2011, he established Fort Worth Dental Arts with the goal of revolutionizing dental care, motivated by his dedication to delivering exceptional service to his community.

Dr. Hoyt actively participates in several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, CEREC Doctors, and Spear Education. His commitment to excellence has been recognized with the "Best Dentist" award by Fort Worth Weekly in 2019, 2020, and 2021.

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