A smiling black man with glasses and a beard, exuding warmth and friendliness.

Save Your Tooth and Your Smile with a Root Canal

In the past, a tooth with a diseased nerve would be lost. Today, whether you need a root canal in Hickory, NC, or elsewhere, we can save your tooth and your smile with a relatively simple dental procedure called a root canal. If you're looking for a dentist in Hickory, NC, we are here to help with expert care.

A close-up of two teeth: one with a missing tooth and another with a root canal treatment visible.
A close-up view of teeth, emphasizing dental care post-root canal treatment.
A tooth with a white and yellow filling, indicating recent root canal treatment.
Detailed view of a tooth with a gap, indicating a missing tooth possibly due to a root canal treatment.

Why Do You Need a Root Canal?

When a tooth is cracked or has a deep cavity, bacteria can cause an infection inside the tooth. An infection can damage the nerve inside the tooth, which provides the sensation of hot or cold. If left untreated, an infection may cause complications, including:

  • An abscess inside the tooth.
  • Pain and swelling that could injure your jawbone and affect your overall health
  • Your tooth may have to be removed

Signs That You Need a Root Canal 

Teeth that need a root canal are not always painful. Here are some other signs that you may need a root canal:

  • Severe toothache
  • Painful chewing or pressure
  • Pain or sensitivity to heat and cold 
  • Dark, discolored teeth
  • Swollen, tender gums 

If you experience these symptoms, contact Valley Hills Dentistry, the best family dentist Hickory NC, as soon as possible. We specialize in a variety of treatments, including root canals in Hickory, NC, to help restore your dental health.

What Happens During A Root Canal?

During a root canal, we relieve the cause of the pain without affecting the day-to-day function of the tooth. Over the course of one to three visits, we will:

  • Remove the diseased nerve and tissue inside the tooth
  • Clean and seal the tooth
  • Fill the tooth with a dental composite

Follow-Up Treatment For Your Root Canal

  • If your tooth had extensive decay, we may suggest a crown to strengthen and protect the tooth from breaking. 
  • Continue to care for your teeth and gums with regular brushing, flossing, and checkups to help your restored tooth last a lifetime.

See How Root Canals in Hickory, NC Can Deliver the Relief You Need

Schedule a consultation with Valley Hills Dentistry, your trusted same day dentist in Hickory, NC, to discuss how a root canal may be the answer to save your tooth while saving you from unnecessary pain.

Illustration showing the stages of tooth decay, highlighting the progression leading to a root canal treatment.
Heather
Dr. Shaw is fantastic! I have always been nervous to go to the dentist. All my visits have been great! Dr. Shaw and his assistants are fabulous at easing nerves and turning it into a positive visit! I would definitely recommend Valley Hills to anyone!
Angie
Great staff! Always friendly and welcoming. Today was my second time there. My hygienist, Megan, was gentle and very effective. My teeth sparkle! Dr. Shaw and Megan did a great job!
Anntreesa
I can barely put into words how wonderful this dentist's office is! The bed side manner the expertise and the care I receive coming here is beyond anything I've ever experienced. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable And Dr. Shaw pays extreme attention to detail. He truly wants your smile to be beautiful and does everything he can to keep your mouth healthy I recommend him to anyone!