Do you shudder at the thought of a root canal? You’re not alone. Root canal therapy in Broomfield often gets a bad reputation as a painful, intimidating dental procedure—but in reality, it’s one of the most effective ways to relieve dental pain and save a tooth from extraction. At Broadlands Family Dentistry in Broomfield, Dr. Ken Burns and Dr. Alex McNeeley are committed to making the experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
This blog is here to demystify root canal therapy for you. We’ll explain the procedure when you might need it and the benefits it offers, as well as answer some of the most common patient questions. Read on and discover why a root canal is not as scary as it seems—it might even help you feel more confident about maintaining your oral health.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a dental procedure to save a tooth that is severely infected or damaged. Inside every tooth is a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When this pulp becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, or trauma, it can cause severe discomfort and jeopardize the tooth’s health.
During root canal therapy, our dentists at Broadlands Family Dentistry remove the infected pulp, clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth, and then seal it to prevent future infection. Finally, a dental crown is placed over the tooth to restore strength and function.
With modern technologies and techniques, root canal therapy has become a straightforward and fairly routine procedure. It’s a far better alternative to tooth extraction, preserving your natural smile and preventing the need for more complex treatments later.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Knowing when you need root canal therapy is difficult, but your body often gives you clues. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s time to call Broadlands Family Dentistry for an evaluation:
- Persistent Tooth Pain: Pain that lingers or worsens, especially when eating or drinking, can signal an infection.
- Sensitivity to Hot or Cold: Extreme sensitivity that persists even after the heat or cold removal may indicate pulp damage.
- Swollen or Tender Gums: Swelling, tenderness, or a small bump on the gums near the painful tooth can point to an underlying infection.
- Discoloration of a Tooth: A tooth that has darkened or become discolored may have underlying damage or infection.
- Cracked or Chipped Tooth: Damage to the tooth’s surface can expose the pulp to bacteria, leading to infection.
Don’t ignore these warning signs. The sooner you seek treatment, the more likely we will be able to save your natural tooth.
5 Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
Many patients are surprised to learn that root canal therapy offers several benefits beyond pain relief. Here are five reasons why root canal therapy can be a valuable investment in your dental health:
1. Pain Relief
The most immediate benefit of root canal therapy is eliminating the severe pain caused by an infected tooth. Once we remove the infection, you’ll feel significant relief.
2. Saving Your Natural Tooth
Preserving your natural tooth is important for maintaining the structure and function of your mouth. Root canal therapy prevents the need for tooth extraction, which can lead to additional complications down the road.
3. Improved Oral Health
Root canal therapy prevents the spread of bacteria to neighboring teeth and other body areas by removing infection and sealing the tooth, protecting oral health.
4. Lifelong Results
A tooth restored with a root canal and dental crown can last a lifetime with proper care. This long-term solution ensures you maintain your natural smile and avoid costly dental procedures in the future.
5. Minimally Disruptive
Compared to an extraction, which can require additional procedures like implants or bridges, a root canal is far less disruptive to your daily life regarding treatment time and recovery.
At Broadlands Family Dentistry in Broomfield, Dr. Ken Burns and Dr. Alex McNeeley are dedicated to ensuring that root canal therapy is a smooth and positive experience for every patient.
5 FAQs About Root Canal Therapy
To make you feel more comfortable, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about root canal therapy:
1. Will the procedure hurt?
Thanks to modern anesthetics and techniques, root canal therapy is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Most patients experience little to no pain during the procedure.
2. How long does a root canal take?
Depending on the case’s complexity, a root canal typically requires one to two visits, each lasting about 60 to 90 minutes.
3. Will I need a crown after the procedure?
Most patients require a dental crown after a root canal to protect the tooth and restore its function. Dr. Burns or Dr. McNeeley will discuss your options for crowns.
4. How much does root canal therapy cost?
The cost can vary depending on the specific case and insurance coverage. We’ll provide detailed estimates and work with your insurance company to minimize out-of-pocket expenses.
5. How do I care for my tooth after a root canal?
Caring for your tooth after a root canal is simple—brush, floss, and maintain regular dental checkups. Avoid biting down on hard foods with the treated tooth until your crown is in place.
Root Canal Therapy in Broomfield
Root canal therapy doesn’t have to be intimidating. At Broadlands Family Dentistry in Broomfield, Dr. Ken Burns and Dr. Alex McNeeley prioritize your comfort, care, and peace of mind throughout the process. If you’re experiencing any symptoms of a potential infection, don’t hesitate to contact us.
We’re here to make your dental care as painless and efficient as possible so you can return to smiling confidently. Contact Broadlands Family Dentistry today to schedule your consultation for root canal therapy in Broomfield.