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Find Relief with Root Canal Therapy

Root canals have a scary reputation, but at Kindred Smiles Dental, we do things differently. Using advanced techniques and gentle anesthesia, Dr. Howard and Dr. Pauline focus on keeping you comfortable from start to finish here at our McKinney office. No drills that make you flinch, no cold, clinical rush. We’re all about careful, precise treatment to stop the pain and save your tooth.

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Root Canals Can...

Treat Infections

By treating the infection or damage, a root canal can help preserve a natural tooth, avoiding the need for an extraction.

Prevent the Spread of Infections

A root canal can prevent an infection from spreading to other teeth or tissues in the mouth.

Relieve Pain and Discomfort

A successful root canal can eliminate or significantly reduce pain and discomfort for an infected or damaged tooth.

Root Canal vs. Pulling a Tooth: What’s Better?

We get this question all the time: “Wouldn’t it just be easier to pull it?”

Here’s the truth: saving your natural tooth is almost always the better move.

When you keep your tooth:

  • You maintain your natural bite and chewing power.
  • You avoid bone loss in your jaw (which can change your facial shape over time).
  • You skip the cost and time of replacing a missing tooth later.

When you pull it:

  • You may get short-term relief, but gaps can lead to shifting teeth and bite problems.
  • You’ll likely need an implant or bridge to fill the space.
Root canal therapy lets you keep what nature gave you; pain-free and strong.

So before you reach for the “just pull it” option, let’s see if we can save your tooth instead.

How Do I Know If My Tooth Is Infected?​

Sometimes it’s hard to tell if that annoying ache is just sensitivity, or something that needs real attention. Here are a few red flags your tooth might be waving:

  • Throbbing pain that won’t quit: Especially if it gets worse when you lie down.
  • Lingering sensitivity: That zing from hot coffee or ice water that sticks around.
  • Swelling or tenderness: Around the gums or even in your jaw or cheek.
  • A dark or “bruised-looking” tooth: This can mean the inner pulp is damaged.
  • A bad taste or odor: Sometimes, an infection can cause an unpleasant taste.

If this sounds familiar, don’t panic, and definitely don’t Google horror stories. We can take a quick look, find the cause, and help you feel better fast.

Dr. Pauline tending to an emergency dentistry patient in McKinney
our friendly dentists, Dr. Howards and Dr. Pauline

When You Visit Kindred Smiles Dental

  1. We’ll administer a gentle anesthetic to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
  2. Our team will carefully access the infected or damaged pulp.
  3. We’ll remove the infected or damaged tissue with precision, preserving as much of your natural tooth as possible.
  4. We’ll meticulously clean and shape the root canals to remove any bacteria or debris.
  5. We’ll seal the root canals with a durable material to prevent reinfection and restore the tooth’s strength.
  6. In many cases, we’ll place a custom-made dental crown to protect the treated tooth and enhance its appearance.

Don't Let Tooth Discomfort Hold You Back

Ready to take the first step towards a healthier, happier smile? Our root canal therapy in McKinney can be a life-changing procedure, offering relief from pain, preserving your natural teeth, and restoring your confidence.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Thanks to modern anesthesia techniques, you'll only have minimal discomfort during your procedure.

Most of our patients are in and out within one and three hours. But don’t worry; we'll keep you informed throughout the process and make sure you're comfortable every step of the way.

For a few days following your procedure, it's best to avoid chewing directly on the treated tooth to allow the area to heal properly. However, you can still enjoy soft foods on the opposite side of your mouth. We'll give you advice on what’s best to avoid during this time.

No! In fact, root canals can help strengthen your tooth! By removing the infected or damaged pulp and sealing the root canals, we can prevent further damage and preserve the tooth's structure.