Root Canal Treatment from Your Cottonwood General Dentist

At Arizona Smile Designers, we are proud to provide a wide variety of dental care to patients of all ages in and around Sedona and Cottonwood. Whether you’re looking for a general dentist to provide a thorough teeth cleaning, or want to improve your smile with teeth whitening and cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Steve Vergara and our team offer superior care. We pride ourselves on providing exceptional services in our friendly and welcoming office environment, making each patient feel comfortable and well cared for.

Our treatment options include general dentistry and check-ups, cosmetic solutions and even oral surgery. Endodontics, also known as root canals, is the vital procedure that can save a dying tooth from extraction. Keep reading to learn more!

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What is a Root Canal?

A root canal or endodontics (“endo” – inside, “dont” – tooth) is a dental procedure that removes infection or inflammation in the pulp of the tooth. If left untreated, infected pulp can lead to dental abscesses and other health problems. While most people think of root canals as being painful, they are usually no more uncomfortable than getting a filling.

A root canal treatment from your Cottonwood dentists will effectively cure infection and tooth pain, leading to a happier, healthier smile. This restoration can also help you avoid the issues that can occur with severe decay, including shifts in tooth placement, the need for bridges or dental implants, and the loss of bone structure around the area of the missing tooth.

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Why Would I Need a Root Canal?

A root canal is needed when the tooth’s pulp tissue becomes infected with inflammation. Common causes of infection and inflammation include deep tooth decay from untreated cavities, and bacteria from chipped or cracked teeth. Any opening in the protective enamel of the tooth can allow bacteria to infect the tooth.

Another cause for root canals is trauma to the tooth, which can result from a sports injury, a fall or a car accident. In these cases it’s necessary to seek treatment immediately in order to save the tooth and prevent any further issues.

Sometimes, extensive dental work can also cause damage to the tooth pulp and require a root canal. Having multiple fillings or restoration work on the same tooth increases the chance of infection. In rare instances, common procedures like crown preparation or orthodontic treatment can lead to pulp infection as well.

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The Root Canal Procedure

When you receive a root canal at Arizona Smile designers, the procedure will include the following steps:

  • First, your dentist will administer an anesthetic to numb the tooth and the surrounding area. For most patients, this is the most uncomfortable part, but the discomfort quickly fades as the anesthetic begins to work.
  • Next, a small opening is made in the surface of the infected tooth so that your dentist can reach the pulp chamber and root canals.
  • The infected pulp is removed using small instruments.
  • Finally, the tooth and empty canals are cleaned, disinfected and filled with a biocompatible material, and an adhesive cement is used to close to the opening.

In the days following your root canal, your affected tooth will feel some sensitivity or tenderness. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help relieve discomfort, but prescription medication may be given if needed. Your general dentist will advise you to avoid biting on the tooth for a few days as well.

In order to protect the tooth and restore it to its full function, you will need to have a crown or restoration put on. Restorations can take many forms, including gold crowns or a tooth replica.

Signs You Need A Root Canal

If you experience the following symptoms, you may need a root canal:

  • constant and severe pain or pressure in your mouth
  • swelling and extreme sensitivity in your gums
  • sharp pain when you bite into food
  • lingering pain after eating hot or cold foods

Contact Your Local General Dentist Today!

As your general and cosmetic dentist serving Cottonwood, Camp Verde, and Sedona, we want to help each patient achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that will last for years to come. If you believe you are in need of a root canal, please contact us or schedule an appointment today. Dr. Steve Vergara and our friendly staff are always happy to help! If you have any questions regarding cosmetic or general dentistry, check out some of the articles below or give us a call at 928.634.8610. We look forward to hearing from you!