Root Canal Treatment
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that removes infected or damaged pulp inside a tooth to relieve pain and save the tooth. After cleaning and disinfecting the canals, the space is filled with a special material and sealed to prevent reinfection.
Root canals help preserve your natural tooth, preventing the need for extractions while eliminating pain and infection.
When do you need a root canal? (Indications for a Root Canal)
You may need a root canal if you experience:
✔️ Severe tooth pain that doesn’t go away
✔️ Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
✔️ Swelling or tenderness in the gums
✔️ A darkened or discolored tooth
✔️ A pimple-like bump on the gums (abscess)
A root canal can stop the infection from spreading and help you keep your natural tooth.
Who is not a candidate for a root canal? (Contraindications for a Root Canal)
A root canal may not be the best option if you:
❌ Have severe tooth decay that has destroyed too much of the tooth
❌ Have a fractured tooth that cannot be restored
❌ Have advanced gum disease that has weakened the tooth’s support
❌ Prefer tooth extraction over saving the tooth
If a root canal isn’t possible, tooth extraction and replacement options like dental implants or bridges may be considered.
Does a root canal hurt?
Nope! Modern root canals are painless thanks to local anesthesia and advanced techniques. Most patients feel relief from pain after the procedure rather than discomfort. Some mild soreness afterward is normal, but it’s usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long does a root canal take?
A root canal typically takes 60 to 90 minutes per tooth, depending on the complexity. Some cases require two visits if additional cleaning or a post is needed for support.
Afterward, the tooth is protected with a crown to restore strength and function.
What happens during a root canal procedure?
✔️ Step 1: Anesthesia – The area is numbed to ensure a pain-free procedure.
✔️ Step 2: Cleaning the Infection – The infected pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is disinfected.
✔️ Step 3: Filling the Tooth – A special material seals the canals to prevent reinfection.
✔️ Step 4: Crown Placement – A dental crown is recommended to restore strength and durability.
The result? A saved, pain-free tooth that functions like normal!
How do I take care of my tooth after a root canal? (Post-Op Care)
To ensure proper healing:
✔️ Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored with a crown.
✔️ Take prescribed pain relievers if needed for mild discomfort.
✔️ Brush and floss gently around the area.
✔️ Follow up with your dentist for a permanent crown.
A root canal eliminates the infection, but the tooth still needs protection with a crown to prevent future damage.
Can a root canal fail?
Root canals have a very high success rate, but in rare cases, failure can occur due to:
✔️ New infections from untreated canals
✔️ Cracks or fractures in the tooth
✔️ Leaking restorations that allow bacteria to enter
If this happens, a root canal retreatment or an apicoectomy (removal of infected tissue at the root tip) may be needed.
How much does a root canal cost?
The cost of a root canal varies based on the tooth location and complexity:
✔️ Front tooth: $600 - $1,200
✔️ Premolar: $800 - $1,500
✔️ Molar: $1,000 - $2,000
Most dental insurance plans cover part of the cost, making it an affordable solution for saving your tooth.
At Parker Dental Studio in Parker, CO, we provide expert root canal therapy to save your teeth comfortably and effectively. If you have tooth pain or an infection, don’t wait—schedule your consultation today!
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