Root Canal Therapy – Greeley, CO

What is a Root Canal?

If you have a tooth that is infected, you are probably in a lot of pain. When this happens, your dentist in Greeley will need to examine your tooth to determine the severity of the problem. If the infection has reached the inner layer of your tooth, the “pulp,” it will be necessary to perform a root canal to remove the infection and pain.

Our teeth consist of multiple layers. From the outer protective layer known as the enamel to the inner pulp that is considered the “nerve” of the tooth. The canals that exist within the tooth can become infected with bacteria and ultimately kill the pulp and create increased blood flow, ultimately, added much pressure inside your tooth. When this happens, you can experience what feels like a toothache, but it can develop into bone and tooth loss, or acute pain. If this problem is caught early enough, your dentist can save it with a root canal.

Why Do I Need a Root Canal?

Any of the following reasons can result in a root canal:

• Sores or pimple-like growths on your gums
• Discomfort while chewing or biting down
• Fever
• Swelling that appears on the side of your face
• Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks

Only Dr. Cure or Dr. Smith can determine if you have a tooth that is in need of a root canal. This is because a toothache can be deceiving, and if you don’t have a professional look at the problem, you could face a possible extraction if it becomes too severe.

You might also be surprised to know that you could need a root canal if there’s no pain present. Why? Because the infection may not be causing that particular symptom. When visiting Dr. Cure or Dr. Smith for your regular checkup, they’ll take an x-ray of your mouth, and if an infection is present, you may be looking at needing a root canal in Greeley.

Does a Root Canal Hurt?

As we mentioned before, dentists have spent years trying to inform people that root canals do not hurt. The pain that a person experiences is caused by the infection, not the procedure. However, it is important to know that after your root canal procedure is completed, you will experience some discomfort, just as you would with any surgery.

Recovering From a Root Canal?

After the infection has been removed from your tooth and you’re ready to go home, you can expect our dentists to provide you with antibiotics to keep any infection from returning. There are a few things you can do to help in the recovery phase:

• Take any and all medications (prescribed or over the counter) as instructed
• Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth with the surgical site, as your tooth will be sensitive
• Place a cold compress on the side of the injured area to reduce swelling

Within a week or so, you should begin to feel much better.