Do I Really Need a Root Canal?

There are plenty of rumors surrounding root canals, but the procedure itself really isn’t as scary as it sounds. Modern technology has allowed dental procedures to be performed in a way that ensures patient comfort, and if you’re thinking you need a root canal, there are a few signs to look out for.

Pain: If you are experiencing light to extreme pain in your jaw while you eat, drink, or change posture, this could be a sign of serious tooth decay. The pain can linger for seconds or minutes and may occur randomly or due to a stimulus.  

Gum tenderness: When a tooth becomes infected, the gums may begin to swell around the tooth and become tender. A pimple-like boil may also surface on the gums, which is a sign of decay.

A root canal will be performed if your dentist determines that the tooth can be saved. It’s always best to preserve the natural tooth, and once the root canal is complete, your tooth will return to its original strength and functionality.

If a root canal is a possibility for you, your dentist will check the following:

X-rays: An x-ray will be able to target problem teeth and show the extent of any damage. Your dentist will use an x-rays to determine whether the tooth can be saved with a root canal.

Darkened teeth or nerve exposure: A tooth that has darkened in color is a sign that the nerves of the tooth have been damaged. Damaged nerves will indicate that a root canal is needed. Likewise, if the nerves of the tooth are exposed, the tissue is beginning to degenerate and needs proper treatment.

Gum swelling: Your dentist will check the gums for swelling, which will indicate whether a tooth is infected. Your dentist will check the gums during an initial dental examination.

Your dentist will also perform a number of tests to determine whether you need a root canal procedure.

Call Us Today!

If you are experiencing dental pain, Drs. Jaime and Eliud Villarreal provide root canal therapy for patients in Rock Wall. Please contact Lakeshore Dental for further information. 

Lumineers vs. Traditional Veneers

When considering a cosmetic procedure, it is important to know the differences between certain products. If you are interested in veneers, you are probably curious about the difference between traditional porcelain laminates and Lumineers. Both are capable of repairing tooth imperfections as well as straightening or lengthening teeth, but the two veneer-types definitely have their differences.

Lumineers are thinner: Lumineers are about the size of a contact lens and are thinner than traditional veneers for the purpose of more seamless placement and a natural look.

Traditional veneers are better for extreme dental work: Patients who need extreme cosmetic work, such as the closing of large gaps of space between teeth, benefit more from traditional veneers due to the fact that they thicker and more durable.

Lumineers are minimally invasive: Since Lumineers are made of thinner porcelain, they require less preparation to the natural tooth before the veneers are applied. This also means that Lumineers do not require temporaries during the waiting period while they’re being crafted.

Traditional veneers are more flexible: The flexibility of traditional veneers allows them to be easily molded to precisely fit the structure of an individual smile. Patients looking for instant-orthodontic work would benefit from a traditional veneer’s ability to form to their smile.

Lumineers are removable: Unlike traditional veneers (which are permanent) Lumineers can be removed and re-applied over time, giving patients more options concerning the structure of their smile. Lumineers can also be placed quickly – usually in just two dental appointments.

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The best way to determine which veneers will suit you the best is to contact your dental health professional.

At Lakeshore Dental, we offer Lumineers veneers for patients looking to improve their smiles. To find out whether Lumineers are right for you, or to schedule a consultation with us in Rockwall, contact Drs. Jamie and Eliud Villarreal today!