Root Canal Therapy in Prescott Valley, AZ

Reviving Smiles at Larson Family Dental

Are you experiencing constant pain or discomfort in your tooth? It may be time for a root canal. If those words give you anxiety, we encourage you not to worry. At Larson Family Dental, our Prescott Valley dentists alongside our team of highly skilled and compassionate professionals can gently save your teeth from extraction Keep reading to learn about how we perform gentle root canals to protect your natural smile and how you may benefit.

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure designed to treat the internal structure of a tooth. Inside every tooth, beneath the outer enamel and dentin layers, lies a soft tissue known as the dental pulp. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues that help nourish the tooth during its development. However, when the pulp becomes infected or damaged due to decay, trauma, or deep cavities, it can cause severe pain, sensitivity, and even lead to abscess formation.

When is a Root Canal Necessary?

Root canal treatment becomes necessary when the dental pulp is compromised. Several signs and symptoms indicate the need for a root canal, including:

• Persistent Toothache: Intense, throbbing pain or sensitivity that lingers, even after applying over-the-counter remedies.
• Tooth Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, often accompanied by sharp, shooting pain.
• Swollen Gums: Swelling, tenderness, or a small bump on the gums near the affected tooth.
• Discoloration: Darkening or discoloration of the tooth, indicating internal damage or infection.
• Prolonged Sensitivity to Pressure: Discomfort or pain when biting down or applying pressure on the tooth.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek immediate dental care at Larson Family Dental in Prescott Valley, AZ. Dr. Larson will conduct a thorough examination, including X-rays, to assess the condition of the tooth.

The Root Canal Process

The thought of undergoing a root canal may evoke anxiety, but rest assured that at Larson Family Dental, your comfort and well-being are our top priorities. Dr. Larson and our compassionate team will guide you through the process with the utmost care. Here’s what you can expect during a typical root canal treatment:

Initial Assessment

Dr. Larson will perform a comprehensive evaluation, including X-rays, to diagnose the extent of the damage and plan the treatment accordingly. Local anesthesia will be administered to ensure a painless procedure.

Accessing the Pulp

A small access hole will be created in the tooth’s crown, providing access to the pulp chamber and root canals. This step involves removing the infected or damaged pulp.

Cleaning and Shaping

The teeth are meticulously cleaned using specialized instruments to eliminate any remaining infected tissue, debris, and bacteria. The canals are then shaped to allow for optimal filling and sealing.

Filling and Sealing

Once the canals are thoroughly cleaned, they are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. This rubber-like material seals the canals to prevent reinfection. In some cases, Dr. Larson may place a temporary filling to protect the tooth until the final restoration is placed.

Restoration

After treatment, a crown or filling is typically placed to restore the tooth’s strength, structure, and appearance. Dr. Larson will ensure that the restoration blends seamlessly with your natural teeth for an aesthetically pleasing result.