Save Your Smile with Root Canal Therapy
Nobody looks forward to hearing they need a root canal. But when decay or infection has reached the inside of your tooth, root canal therapy may be the only way to save it. At Brimhall Family Dentistry, we provide gentle, effective root canal treatments that can preserve your natural tooth and prevent more serious dental issues down the road.
When tooth decay is caught early, a simple filling can often fix the problem. But if decay spreads to the pulp—the living tissue inside your tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels—it can lead to serious symptoms such as:
- Severe tooth pain
- Abscessed tooth (a pus-filled infection at the root)
- Swelling in the face, neck, or head
- Bone loss at the tip of the tooth root
- Infection in surrounding teeth and gums
- Eventual tooth loss
Root canal therapy removes the infected tissue and allows the tooth to stay intact, preventing further infection and the need for extraction.
When Your Dental Health Requires Urgent Action
Tooth decay isn’t the only reason you might need a root canal. Other common causes include:
- Large or repeated fillings
- Dental trauma
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Excessive wear from grinding or chewing on hard substances
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to act quickly:
- Persistent or severe tooth pain, especially when chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after exposure
- Tooth discoloration or darkening
- Swelling or tenderness in your gums
- A pimple-like bump on your gums that doesn’t go away
Prompt treatment can save your tooth and protect your health.
What to Expect During a Root Canal
Root canals typically require one to two visits, depending on the severity of the infection. Here’s what you can expect:
- Digital X-rays will be taken to evaluate the tooth
- Local anesthesia will be administered to keep you comfortable
- The dentist will create an opening in the tooth to access and remove the infected pulp
- The inside of the tooth will be cleaned and disinfected
- The tooth will be sealed to prevent future infection
In some cases, a crown or other restoration may be recommended to strengthen and protect the tooth after treatment.
Root canal therapy has a reputation for being painful, but most patients find it no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Any post-procedure discomfort is typically mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Until your permanent crown or filling is placed, we recommend avoiding chewing on the treated tooth to protect it.
Why Root Canal Therapy Matters
Treating an infected tooth promptly with root canal therapy can:
- Relieve pain and sensitivity
- Prevent infection from spreading
- Save your natural tooth
- Preserve your smile and bite function
- Avoid the need for tooth extraction and replacement
While complications are rare, restorations such as fillings and crowns can break down over time. If this happens, further treatment may be necessary.
Schedule Your Root Canal Consultation
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or suspect you need a root canal, call Brimhall Family Dentistry in Fort Collins today at 970-482-4242. You can also request an appointment online. Our experienced dental team is here to provide gentle, effective care and help you save your smile.