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Root Canal Treatment

Root canal therapy to treat infection and preserve your natural tooth.

Tooth anatomy illustrating root canal procedures.

Preserve Your Natural Tooth

Root Canal Treatment at The Dental Team

Experiencing sharp tooth pain, increased sensitivity to cold, or seeing signs of infection?

The Dental Team provides gentle and effective root canals, easing pain while preventing future problems. Using modern techniques and local anesthesia, the discomfort is minimal—much like getting a filling. By saving your natural tooth, this procedure helps avoid extractions or implants. If you're facing a severe toothache or swelling, visit our Cherry Creek location for prompt relief.

Root Canal Treatment Overview

  • Pain Relief: Eliminates infection and alleviates tooth pain caused by deep decay or injury.
  • Tooth Preservation: Saves your natural tooth, avoiding the need for extraction.
  • Efficient Procedure: Typically completed in one or two visits with local anesthesia for comfort.
  • Protects Oral Health: Prevents the spread of infection to surrounding teeth and gums.
  • Restoration Ready: The treated tooth is sealed and often finished with a crown for strength and function.

Heal & Protect

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is essential for saving a tooth with severe decay or infection. When the pulp (inner nerve tissue) is damaged, it can cause pain and risk tooth loss. During the procedure, a dentist removes the infected pulp, cleans the root canals, and seals them to prevent future issues. Afterward, the tooth is usually restored with a crown or filling to regain its strength and function. This treatment helps maintain oral health by preserving your natural smile.

Senior man smiling during dental check-up.

An Ideal Option

Do I Need a Root Canal?

A root canal may be necessary when the inner pulp of your tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, cracks, or trauma. Ignoring the symptoms can lead to worsening pain and even tooth loss.

Common Signs You May Need a Root Canal:

  • Persistent tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the source is removed
  • Swollen or tender gums near the affected tooth
  • Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
  • A small bump or pimple on the gums (which may indicate an abscess)

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule an evaluation with The Dental Team in Cherry Creek. Early treatment can relieve discomfort and save your natural tooth.

Timely & Attentive Care

What is the Root Canal procedure like?

In Cherry Creek, a root canal treatment generally requires one to two visits, based on the infection's severity.

Here's an overview of what occurs during this procedure:

Step 1: Numbing the Area

A local anesthetic is applied to ensure you remain completely comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.

Step 2: Removing the Infected Tissue

A small opening is made in the tooth to access the pulp chamber. The infected or damaged pulp is carefully removed, and the root canals are cleaned and disinfected.

Step 3: Sealing the Tooth

The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible, rubber-like material to seal the space and prevent future infection.

Step 4: Restoring the Tooth

Most root canal-treated teeth are restored with a dental crown to regain full strength and function. In some cases, a filling may be sufficient.

Smiling woman in dental chair, feeling happy.

Considering Your Choices

Root Canal vs. Tooth Extraction

When faced with a severely infected or damaged tooth, deciding between a root canal and an extraction is crucial. A root canal preserves your natural tooth, ensuring proper chewing and maintaining a healthy bite.

However, extraction might require a dental implant or bridge to fill the gap left behind. Dentists typically recommend saving the natural tooth whenever possible, making a root canal the preferred choice for many individuals.

A Smooth, Seamless Recovery

Aftercare Tips for Root Canal

Most people return to their normal routines after the procedure.

Consider these methods to care for your tooth post-root canal:

  • Avoid chewing on the treated side until the restoration is in place.
  • Use prescribed or OTC pain medications to alleviate any discomfort.
  • Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and using an antibacterial mouthwash.
  • Attend scheduled follow-up appointments to track recovery and confirm correct restoration placement.

After healing, your restored tooth will function like a natural one.

You Shouldn't Have to Wait For Relief.

Root Canal Results

After a root canal, patients typically feel immediate relief from pain as the infected pulp is removed. A little sensitivity might linger for a few days but usually fades as healing progresses. Once your permanent filling or dental crown is in place, your tooth should function and feel just like normal.

What You Can Expect from Root Canal Treatment:

  • Relief from pain once the infection is eliminated
  • A restored tooth that looks and functions naturally, with a filling or crown
  • Elimination of sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
  • Comfortable chewing without discomfort or risk of further infection

By preserving your natural tooth, a root canal helps you maintain a healthy bite, proper alignment, and a confident smile for years to come.

Root Canal Frequently Asked Questions

Persistent toothache, increased sensitivity to temperature, gum swelling, or a small bump near the affected area may indicate the need for a root canal. Tooth discoloration or pain while chewing can signal decay or infection. A dentist or endodontist will assess if a root canal is required through an examination and X-rays.

A root canal typically lasts 60-90 minutes per tooth and may require one or two appointments. If a significant infection is present, your dentist might use a temporary filling and schedule a follow-up visit to finish the procedure.

Thanks to modern dental techniques and local anesthesia, getting a root canal today is about as comfortable as any other dental procedure. Most patients experience immediate relief from pain once the infection is addressed. Afterward, you might feel some minor soreness or sensitivity, which can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

A well-performed root canal can last for many years with proper oral care. While risks like cracks or reinfection can occur, a dental crown offers added protection. Regular check-ups and diligent oral hygiene are key to maintaining the durability of your treated tooth.

The cost of a root canal can differ depending on the tooth's location, the severity of any infection, and the extent of restoration needed. Dental insurance often covers a portion of these expenses, helping ease financial worries. Before starting treatment, you'll receive a personalized plan and detailed cost estimate, ensuring you know exactly what to expect.

After a root canal appointment, you can typically drive home as only local anesthesia is used. However, if sedation dentistry was part of your procedure in Cherry Creek, it's important to have someone else drive you home. Sedation can affect your ability to operate a vehicle safely. Always prioritize your safety by arranging a ride if needed.

If a tooth needing a root canal is left untreated, the infection might spread to nearby teeth, gums, and even the jawbone. This can lead to intense pain, abscesses, and possibly losing the tooth. In rare cases, untreated infections can escalate into serious health problems requiring immediate medical care.