Endodontics/Root Canal

Boulder, Colorado

A root canal is a procedure to repair and save a tooth that becomes infected. Boulder family dentist, Dr. Gerald B. Savory, will remove the nerve and pulp in your tooth, clean the infected region, and seal the tooth. Failure to treat your infected tooth may result in the development of an abscess, a puss-filled pocket that forms at the end of your tooth’s root. Oral infections are serious matters. Some of them can lead to hospitalization and can even be life-threatening.

The root canal is the cavity in the center of your tooth. The pulp is the soft region within the root canal. Your tooth’s nerve is also located in the root canal. Removing the nerve and pulp from your root canal will not impact the functioning of your tooth.

Why Must I Remove Damaged Tooth Pulp and Nerves?

When the nerve and pulp in your tooth sustain damage, bacteria can form in the region. Over time, this will cause an infection or abscess to develop. This can lead to:

• Swelling in the region
• Bone loss near the tip of the root
• Drainage problems near the root

Often, symptoms do not develop until the condition has become very serious. However, the following issues may indicate that a root canal is required:

• Severe toothache when chewing
• Prolonged sensitivity or pain when the tooth is exposed to hot or cold temperatures
• Discoloration (darkening) of the tooth
• Swelling and tenderness of the gums near the damaged tooth
• A recurring pimple on the gums

Your Root Canal Procedure

Dr. Savory will apply a local anesthetic to numb the region near the damaged tooth. This will reduce any discomfort you may experience during the procedure. Next, a rubber dam will be placed around the tooth to keep the region dry and free of saliva during the procedure. Dr. Savory will drill an access hole in the tooth and remove the pulp, decayed nerve tissue, bacteria, and debris from the region.

Once your tooth has been cleaned, Dr. Savory will seal it with a special medicated paste. The access hole will then be closed up with a dental filling. If necessary, an additional restoration such as a dental crown will be placed on top of the tooth to prevent further damage.

Modern dental technology has helped eliminate any pain from this procedure. In fact, many patients describe their root canal as feeling similar to having a filling placed.

Please contact our Boulder family dentist today to schedule your root canal appointment at Gunbarrel Dental Center, serving patients in Boulder, Gunbarrel, Longmont, Niwot, Louisville, Lafayette, Erie, and Superior, Colorado.

Disclaimer: The root canal information provided on this website by Dr. Gerald Savory is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. To learn more about root canals and family dentistry in the Boulder, Colorado area, please contact Gunbarrel Dental Center to schedule a consultation today.