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Root Canals

Root Canals

Movies and pop culture may paint root canals as painful or problematic—but Twin Peaks Family & Cosmetic Dentistry aims to rewrite that stereotype. Our office is up to date with premium dental technology and the latest gentle dentistry techniques, so we can perform root canal treatments that are more comfortable for our patients.

We follow our office motto to “treat people, not teeth” with every visit, and we want you to feel comfortable every time you come to our office. 

New Patient

Online Offer

($870 Value)

Call 720-680-3829 today to schedule.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

A root canal infection usually presents itself with pain or sensitivity in the affected tooth. Here are some telltale signs of a tooth infection:

  • Persistent toothache
  • Sensitivity to hot and cold
  • Tooth discoloration
  • Swollen gums
  • Pain when chewing or biting
  • A persistent pimple on the gums
  • Tooth mobility

If you are dealing with these or any other symptoms, call Twin Peaks Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. We also offer emergency dental care for timely care right when you need it. 

What Is a Root Canal?

The phrase “root canal” actually refers to a part of your tooth, and the procedure itself is more accurately referred to as a “root canal treatment” or sometimes “root canal therapy.” The root canal itself refers to the interior of your tooth’s root where a bundle of blood vessels and nerves (called the pulp) are. 

When a tooth is infected, it can lead to an abscess where the infection moves to the root canal area. Then a root canal treatment is needed to clean out the infection in the root canal and return the patient to full oral health. 

The Root Canal Process

Tooth infection or decay requires complete removal of the pulp. A root canal procedure involves:

  • Removing the pulp
  • Sealing off the area 
  • Capping the tooth with a filling or crown. 

This procedure minimizes dental pain and ultimately helps seal off your teeth from any further damage.

Choosing Root Canal or an Extraction

A root canal and an extraction are two completely different treatments. More often we will use a root canal to attempt to preserve your natural teeth as much as possible. 
  • Root canals address symptoms such as toothache, tooth infection, or sensitivity by removing the bacteria that is causing the issue in the first place. Even if the pulp in your tooth is past the point of repair, a root canal can preserve the outer structure and clean out the cause of any discoloration—leaving your smile fully intact.
  • Tooth extractions are for teeth that are broken or infected beyond the point of repair and are a risk to your neighboring teeth or overall oral health. This procedure is usually more invasive and meant in more drastic circumstances to prevent further damage and restore full oral health. 

FAQ about Root Canals

A root canal treatment doesn’t need to be a daunting process. Twin Peaks Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is here to walk you through every step of the way. Here are some common concerns patients bring up during the process. 

Here are some things our office might suggest to help with your root canal treatment:

  • Bring a Friend: We offer oral sedation to make the procedure as comfortable as possible. You may need a friend to drive you home if you require heavy sedation.
  • Get Work Off: Many patients may need some time to adjust to the effects of the anesthesia and the procedure. 
  • Follow Diet Instructions: Dr. Butler will give you a list of diet concerns to avoid, including avoiding alcohol or tobacco 24 hours before the procedure. 

With modern techniques and anesthesia, root canal treatments are usually no more painful than having a filling done. Instead, after the procedure most people experience relief from the severe pain of the infection or toothache that caused the need for the root canal in the first place.

The procedure might take one or two appointments to complete, depending on the condition of your tooth and the complexity of the procedure. Each appointment can last from 1–2 hours.

Dr. Butler will either use a filling or place a temporary crown near your teeth to help your mouth heal. We will then schedule a follow-up appointment and give your gums time to adjust to the root canal. 

A dental prosthetic is frequently placed after a root canal is healed. This essential step helps your teeth function normally and minimizes any pain while digesting food. Our office offers dental crowns, implants, dentures, and bridges to better secure your smile.

Get Quality Root Canal Treatment in Longmont

We’re happy to answer any other questions you may have about our root canal treatment. Give Twin Peaks Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Longmont, CO, a call today for more information!

New Patient

Online Offer

($870 Value)

Call 720-680-3829 today to schedule.

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