Root Canal Therapy – Longmont, CO
Treating Tooth Infections and Relieving Pain
Pain that exists deep inside of your tooth is indescribable. A normal toothache is bad enough, but when the discomfort reaches a level that cannot be eliminated with traditional over-the-counter pain medication, you might find yourself pleading for any kind of help. This is where Longmont Complete Dentistry can get to the true “root” of the issue. If an infection exists within your tooth, there’s a good chance you’ll need root canal therapy in Longmont, CO to remedy the problem. While this may sound scary, it’s actually not, and you’ll be surprised how much relief you’ll feel after the procedure is complete. If you are ready to say goodbye to the pain and hello to a healthier smile, contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Why Choose Longmont Complete Dentistry for Root Canal Therapy?
- Cure Severe Toothaches Caused by Infections
- Same-Day Appointments for Patients in Pain
- Sedation Dentistry Available
What is a Root Canal?
It is always our goal to help you keep your natural teeth. While artificial teeth may look and even feel like the real thing, they’re not, no matter how much they closely resemble your regular teeth. By having a root canal, we’ll be able to save your tooth from extraction.
A root canal removes the infection within the inner portion of the tooth. This infection is caused by damage or decay. Dr. Dan Maurer can go in and clear out the infection, all the way to the pulp layer, before replacing it with a biocompatible material. Once it’s sealed, you’ll have a customized crown to protect the tooth from further damage.
What Problems Do Root Canals Treat?
If the decay or damage has reached the innermost layer of your tooth and the nerve is being affected, it’s time you see us for a root canal. How does this happen?
Damage from sports-related injuries or even a fall can result in serious problems for your teeth. However, damage isn’t the only way you can find yourself in the dentist chair preparing for a root canal. If you have poor oral habits that have led to the development of tooth decay, the bacteria can burrow its way into your teeth. Not only will this result in cavities, but it can reach the nerve of your tooth, which means a root canal is the only way to save it.
How Long Does a Root Canal Take?
Depending on your individual case, a root canal can take one or more visits to our dental office. Dr. Dan will follow a series of steps to perform the procedure. He will:
- Take an X-ray of your mouth to examine the root canals and see if the infection has spread to the nearby bone.
- Numb the area and administer anesthesia to ensure you are completely comfortable.
- Place a rubber dam around the tooth and create a small access-site at the top of the crown.
- Clean out the bacteria and decayed nerve tissue from the infected tooth.
- Seal the tooth once it is fully cleaned using a safe, biocompatible material.
- Place a customized crown over the weakened tooth so that it remains protected from further infection or damage.
Does a Root Canal Hurt?
It’s natural to wonder if a root canal will hurt. Over the years, this procedure has received a bad reputation, and it’s due to the misconception that root canal therapy causes pain. In fact, by having this type of procedure, it actually alleviates and removes the infection that is the reason for the pain.
In the days after your root canal therapy treatment, you can expect:
- Some sensitivity due to inflammation, but it can be controlled with over-the-counter pain medication.
- To avoid chewing on the side of the injured tooth for a few days.
- To continue brushing, flossing, and using an antiseptic mouthwash to keep your mouth clean.