Root canal therapy is a dental procedure that aims to save a tooth that has been severely damaged or infected. This treatment focuses on the removal of the infected or inflamed pulp, a soft substance in the center of the tooth, which consists of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. By addressing the root cause of pain and infection, root canal therapy restores and protects the tooth’s structure, offering a long-lasting solution. The necessity for this treatment arises when the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, faulty crowns or a crack or chip in the tooth.
What to Expect During Root Canal Therapy
The procedure typically requires one or more visits with our Denver dentist. It begins with the administration of local anesthesia to numb the affected tooth and surrounding area, ensuring the patient’s comfort throughout the process. Our Denver dentist will then create a small opening in the crown of the tooth to access and remove the infected pulp. The inside of the tooth is then carefully cleaned, disinfected, and shaped, preparing it for a filling. To finalize the treatment, a filling is placed to seal the opening and often, a dental crown is recommended to restore the tooth’s shape, appearance, and function fully.
The Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy offers numerous benefits, including the relief of pain and discomfort caused by the infected or inflamed pulp, the preservation of natural teeth, which helps maintain proper chewing functions and oral health, and the prevention of jawbone degeneration associated with tooth loss. By choosing this treatment, patients can avoid the need for more invasive procedures in the future.
Root canal therapy in Denver, Colorado, is a highly effective treatment for preserving a tooth that would otherwise need to be removed. If you think you may need root canal treatment, call us at 303-722-1690 to schedule your visit with our Denver dentist, Dr. Kyle Long.