Root Canal Therapy in Greeley, CO

When Is a Root Canal Necessary?

A root canal is needed when the inner pulp of a tooth becomes inflamed or infected due to:

• Deep decay that has reached the tooth’s nerve
• A cracked or broken tooth that allows bacteria inside
• Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
• An abscess or swelling near the tooth’s root

If left untreated, an infected tooth can cause severe pain, swelling, and bone loss, potentially leading to tooth extraction.

Tooth extractions may be required if a tooth is too damaged to save, but root canal therapy is always the preferred option when possible.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

• Persistent tooth pain that worsens when chewing or applying pressure
• Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers after removal of the stimulus
• Swollen, tender gums around a specific tooth
• Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
• A pimple-like bump on the gums, indicating an abscess

If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule an exam as soon as possible. Early treatment can prevent the infection from spreading and reduce the need for more complex procedures.

What Happens During a Root Canal?

Root canal therapy is a straightforward, highly successful procedure that can be completed in one or two visits.

1. Numbing & Comfort Measures

We begin by numbing the area with local anesthesia to ensure a pain-free experience. For patients with dental anxiety, sedation dentistry may be available.

2. Removing the Infection

A small opening is made in the tooth, and the infected pulp is removed. The inside of the tooth is then cleaned and disinfected to eliminate bacteria.

3. Sealing & Protecting the Tooth

The empty root canals are filled with a biocompatible material, and the tooth is sealed to prevent future infection.

4. Final Restoration with a Crown

Because a tooth can become weaker after a root canal, we often recommend placing a dental crown to restore strength and function.

Dental crowns & bridges provide long-term protection for teeth that have undergone root canal therapy.

Does a Root Canal Hurt?

Many patients are surprised to learn that root canals relieve pain rather than cause it. With modern techniques and anesthesia, the procedure is no more uncomfortable than getting a dental filling. Any post-treatment soreness is mild and temporary, usually resolving within a few days.

How to Care for Your Tooth After a Root Canal

Proper aftercare ensures a smooth recovery and long-lasting results:

• Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as needed
• Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until a permanent restoration is placed
• Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily
• Schedule follow-up visits to monitor healing and place a final crown if necessary

With proper care, a root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime.

Alternatives to a Root Canal

If an infection is too severe or the tooth is beyond saving, extraction may be necessary. However, missing teeth can lead to shifting, bone loss, and bite problems, so it’s important to replace them with a bridge, denture, or dental implant.

Dental implants are the gold standard for replacing lost teeth, offering a permanent, natural-looking solution.