ROOT CANAL THERAPY IN LONGMONT
When you first discover you may be in need of root canal therapy, or “endodontic treatment”, you may have a few questions. Root canal therapy is a procedure that strives to repair and save a badly infected tooth. There are multiple reasons why someone may find themselves needing root canal therapy, such as deep decay or a crack/ chip in the tooth. The best way to prevent root canal therapy is by scheduling regular visits with your Longmont dentist to detect dental issues early on and avoid requiring this procedure altogether.
What to Expect During a Root Canal Treatment?
If you are experiencing extreme pain in one of your teeth and think it could require root canal therapy, book an appointment immediately with our Longmont dental office. What to expect when diagnosing a root canal and receiving therapy thereafter:
- X-rays – if your dentist suspects you may need a root canal, X-rays will first be taken to confirm that the tooth is infected and in need of further treatment.
- Anesthesia – if it is confirm you will be needing root canal therapy, local anesthesia will be administered to the affected tooth for numbing purposes.
- Pulpectomy – This involves your dentist making an opening or incision to remove the diseased tooth pulp. Small files will be used to clear away the infected pulp from the inside of the tooth. The files will also be used to shape the inner area of the tooth and root.
- Filling – After the pulp is removed, an antimicrobial solution is added in the chamber to kill any lingering bacteria and help minimize the risk of further infection. The roots are filled with gutta-percha material and sealed off. In most cases, the dentist will then strengthen the area with a cap or crown. This helps prevent further infection by strengthening the tooth.
Most patients find the procedure comfortable, but it is possible to experience slight discomfort during and after the surgery.
If these symptoms sound familiar, or if you’ve been putting off having a painful tooth checked,
now is the time to seek relief. The team at Longmont Dental can evaluate your tooth, explain your treatment options, and provide comfortable root canal therapy when necessary.
New patients must call (720) 815-4733 to schedule an appointment. Contact us today, and we’ll help you find a convenient time to be seen.
Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?
Many people suspect they may have a root canal before they are actually diagnosed. This is because root canals are notorious for causing tooth pain. While this is known, there are some other symptoms you can be on the lookout for when determining if you may be in need of a root canal. Ask yourself if you are experiencing any of these symptoms:
- You have noticed a constant bad taste in your mouth
- Swollen gums
- You have felt severe pain or throbbing in the area surrounding your tooth
- You can feel pain when biting or applying pressure to your tooth
- When eating or drinking hot or cold items you feel tooth sensitivity
Root canal therapy is a very common procedure. It has a reputation of being undesirable and painful. But when done properly it is actually painless. Every tooth in your mouth is composed of a crown and a root. When a cavity or bacteria penetrates the tooth, the root and its nerves become irritated. As a result, the bacteria within the pulp cavity needs to be removed and cleaned in order to restore the tooth to its healthy state. Following the procedure, the tooth is fragile and consequently is restored with the natural crown for a lifetime of durability. Root canals have a success rate of 95% or greater. Most root canal are diagnosed by patients’ sensitivities to a specific tooth. Be sure to consult your dentist any symptoms or discomfort occur.
If you find you have some of these symptoms, root canal therapy may be the treatment you need. You may have all, or even none, of these symptoms when in need of this procedure. Either way, it should be taken care of immediately before the problem progresses. Be sure to contact your Longmont dentist if you suspect you may be in need of any procedure.
Root Canal Therapy FAQs
How do I know I need a root canal?
Here are common signs that you may need a root canal:
- Tooth pain that worsens when biting into something
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Tooth discoloration
- Swollen gums or a pimple-like bump on the gums
- A foul taste or smell, even with good oral hygiene
Sometimes, you may have a tooth infection without symptoms. That’s why regular exams matter. With digital X-rays, asymptomatic infections can be detected and treatment recommended before real damage occurs.
How long does the procedure take?
Most root canals are completed in 1-2 visits. Each appointment typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the tooth and the complexity of the case.
How painful is a root canal?
Forget what you have watched or heard about root canals. There’s a misconception that root canal treatment is a harrowing procedure. The truth? Modern root canals are virtually painless. The dentist combines effective anesthetics with gentle techniques to ensure a comfortable procedure. Our patients tell us a root canal is like getting a tooth filling, just lengthier. After treatment, you may experience mild soreness, which is easy to manage with home remedies.
Do I always need a dental crown after a root canal?
Mostly, yes. Root canal treatment weakens your tooth, making it vulnerable to future cracks or fractures. A crown protects and strengthens your teeth, especially molars and premolars, which are heavily involved in grinding and chewing. Front teeth may only require a filling, but this depends on the strength of the remaining structure.
How soon can I go back to work after a root canal?
Most patients return to normal activities the same day or the next. You may experience some swelling or soreness, but they are not sufficient to affect your routine activities. Patients are surprised by how seamless the recovery is.
How long does the treated tooth last?
A treated tooth can last many years and even decades. The secret to long-lasting results is good maintenance. That means you should brush and floss your teeth diligently. Also, visit your dentist routinely for dental check-ups and cleanings.
Is dental extraction better than a root canal?
In most cases, saving your natural tooth is always the best option. Your natural teeth support bone health and maintain your chewing and speaking ability. Furthermore, saving your tooth avoids the need for costly tooth replacements. While extraction may seem the easier option, it’s often costly and leads to long-term oral health consequences.
How much is root canal treatment in Longmont, CO?
The cost of your treatment varies, depending on the restoration needed and the complexity of treatment. Because of these variables, we’ll share a cost breakdown after a consultation. We’ll also discuss how to make your treatment affordable with financing and insurance.
Does insurance cover the cost of a root canal?
Typically, it does. Root canals are considered medically necessary, especially when an infection is involved. Most plans also cover part of the cost of root canal retreatments and advanced procedures, such as apicoectomy. However, the exact amount of coverage depends on deductibles, co-pays, waiting periods, and annual maximums. Because coverage varies, it’s best to verify your coverage before your treatment begins.
Where can I get a good root canal dentist in Longmont, CO?
Have you been told you need a root canal? Do not wait until it's too late. Dial (720) 815-4733 and discover how you can save your tooth with a root canal. We combine expertise and advanced technology to deliver some of the finest root canal treatments in Longmont and the surrounding areas.
