Root canal therapy has had a bad rap over the years. The good news is that modern dental technology, endodontic techniques, and dental anesthetics have changed the face of root canals, making them virtually pain-free procedures. Each year, root canal treatments save millions of teeth worldwide, with an impressive success rate of over 95%. The procedure helps relieve pain rather than causing it, so you’ll leave our Scottsdale office better than when you arrived!

What Is a Root Canal Treatment and Why Would You Need One?

Inside every tooth is the pulp chamber, which contains connective tissues, nerves, and blood vessels. If the inner pulp is infected or inflamed due to deep decay, trauma, chip, or fracture, the only way to save the tooth is to perform a root canal treatment.

What Happens if You Don’t Get a Needed Root Canal Treatment?

Tooth pulp infection or inflammation cannot heal on its own. Without treatment, the infection can progress, leading to complications. These may include a severe toothache, an abscessed tooth, bone loss around the tooth root, tooth loss, and facial swelling. The infection can also enter your bloodstream, affecting vital organs and leading to various health complications. 

The only alternative to a required root canal treatment is having the affected tooth extracted. However, missing a tooth can lead to the neighboring teeth shifting, which can cause crooked teeth and problems with the bite. We typically recommend replacing the extracted tooth with a dental bridge or implant. Or, better yet, saving the tooth with a root canal to begin with.  

What Are the Warning Signs that You Need a Root Canal Treatment? 

Signs you have tooth pulp damage requiring root canal therapy include the following: 

• Severe, persistent tooth pain
• Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
• Tooth discoloration
• Gum swelling or tenderness
• A pimple-like bump on the gums
• A chipped or cracked tooth
• Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth

At times, tooth pulp damage may not produce any symptoms, which is why it’s important to schedule your regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings every six months. We will treat any problems as they develop, preventing them from progressing and requiring extensive treatment down the road. 

What Is the Root Canal Procedure?

The first step of your root canal treatment is to ensure you are comfortable and stress-free. We do that by administering a local anesthetic and dental sedation, if needed, to help you relax in the dentist’s chair.

The root canal treatment is relatively simple and straightforward. We will make a small access opening to remove the diseased pulp tissue, then clean and shape the space. Next, we will fill the root canals with a rubbery substance known as gutta-percha, seal the area to prevent reinfection and place a temporary filling. 

After your root canal treatment, the tooth becomes brittle and prone to fracture, so we recommend placing a dental crown for protection. At Dr. Rick Dentistry, we offer the highest-quality crown materials, including porcelain. We also offer same-day CEREC crowns to restore your smile in no time. With proper care and maintenance, your root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime!

Gentle Root Canal Therapy Near Me in Scottsdale, AZ

Visit Dr. Rick Dentistryto learn more about restoring your pain-free smile with the help of root canal therapy. Dr. Rick and his dedicated team will ensure you are comfortable and free of stress during your time with us. We look forward to getting you back in a healthy, functional smile. We invite you to call 480-585-4244 to schedule an appointment or request one online today!