Root Canal Services

Root canal therapy, also known as root canal treatment or endodontic therapy, aims to treat a damaged or infected tooth to prevent it from being removed. This common dental treatment for tooth infection can sound a little frightening to first-time patients, so we always take the time to reassure and fully explain the procedure.

Since infected root pulp or nerve tissue trapped inside a tooth is often painful, many patients experience immediate relief after a root canal appointment.

What Is a Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that involves carefully removing all the infected pulp and root from inside a tooth to save it. During the procedure, the canals of the infected tooth are thoroughly cleaned out and disinfected to prevent further infection. The only other alternative would be to extract the tooth. Once the infection is treated, the canal is filled to prevent further infection. Your dentist will recommend Crowns to cover and restore a tooth after root canal therapy.

When to Get a Root Canal

Once a neglected cavity reaches the pulp at the center of the tooth, it causes the pulp to become infected and starts attacking the surrounding bone, resulting in an abscess. Once an infection develops, the pulp won't heal on its own, so it's essential to seek treatment as soon as possible since it can weaken the immune system.

• Sensitivity to hot and cold or sweets.
• Severe pain around a tooth or when biting or chewing.
• Swelling in the gums.
• An unpleasant taste in the mouth.

Some people do not experience symptoms and may not be aware of the problem until they visit a dentist for a checkup. Prompt treatment for an infected tooth will usually save the tooth's functionality and prevent the spread of infection to the rest of your body.

Root Canal Procedure Steps

At Smile Crafters, we know that some patients feel apprehensive about root canal treatment, so we spend time explaining what they can expect. While individual root canal treatments may differ, they will usually include the following six steps:

1. X-ray and assessment: Your dentist needs to see the shape of the root canals. The x-ray will show if there is any sign of infection in the surrounding bone.
2. Administration of local anesthesia: This will help you feel more relaxed and comfortable during the next steps.
3. Accessing the affected tooth pulp: A small hole is made through your tooth so your dentist can extract all the bacteria and decayed material trapped inside. Remember that the tooth nerve is already dead.
4. Cleaning the root canals: Your dentist will carefully scrub the sides of the root canals using special tiny root canal files. Then, a cleaning solution will be flushed through the tooth to ensure that it is thoroughly clean inside.
5. Permanently sealing the tooth: Your dentist needs to see the shape of the root canals. The x-ray will show if there is any sign of infection in the surrounding bone.
6. After the procedure: Patients can drive and return to work immediately. The area may feel numb for a few hours until the local anesthetic wears off. If you had an infection, the tooth may feel sensitive for a few days due to tissue inflammation.

Contact Smile Crafters if You Need a Root Canal Treatment in Gilbert, AZ

If you suspect that you have an infected root canal, contact Smile Crafters immediately. Once the tooth pulp becomes infected, it cannot heal on its own and prompt treatment will save you a lot of unnecessary discomfort and pain. We are open each weekday and Saturday and offer various sedation options if dental fear is keeping you from having your teeth checked. We are here to reassure you through each step of the process.

Schedule an appointment today — you will be glad you did!