At Pearl Street Dental in Boulder, we understand that the words "root canal" can instantly cause anxiety. It is one of the most misunderstood dental procedures, often associated with pain and discomfort. However, the purpose of a root canal is to relieve pain and save your tooth. Our commitment is to ensure that you fully comprehend the process, the pain management, and the signs indicating the need for it.
A root canal is a dental procedure that treats the inside of a tooth, specifically the pulp, which comprises blood vessels, nerves, and soft tissues that help with tooth growth. Root canal treatment becomes necessary when an infection develops, often due to cracks in the tooth, deep decay, faulty crowns, or trauma.
The procedure involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp, meticulously cleaning and shaping the inside of the root canal, then filling and sealing the space. At Pearl Street Dental, we use our Fotona laser to create pulsed vibrations in the root to thoroughly flush the space and allow ozone gas access to kill any remaining bacteria before being closed and sealed. This process also reduces the use of harsh chemicals and post-procedure soreness. The last step is to install a crown or another restorative treatment in order to protect and restore the tooth to full function.
A root canal is not a routine dental procedure. It is usually recommended when there is an infection deep within the tooth. The only definitive way to determine if you need a root canal is through a dental examination with X-rays. However, there are specific symptoms that can indicate the necessity for this treatment. Regular visits with us at Pearl Street Dental can assist in identifying these signs early, alleviating discomfort and potentially saving your tooth.
One of the biggest concerns our patients have regarding root canal treatment is whether or not its painful. You may be surprised to learn that modern root canal treatments are not much different than having a tooth filled. It's usually completed in one or two visits and can be as straightforward as getting a filling.
We use local anesthesia to numb the surrounding area of the tooth, so you feel minimal discomfort during the procedure. After the treatment, painkillers can be used to manage any residual soreness or discomfort. At Pearl Street Dental, we go above and beyond to ensure that our patients are comfortable throughout the procedure and during their recovery period.
Root canal treatment is designed to save your tooth, not cause unnecessary pain. Trust Pearl Street Dental in Boulder to provide you the best of care with clear explanations, minimal discomfort, and beneficial results.
Feel free to contact us for more information or book an appointment for a thorough examination.
