You may have worried about needing a root canal at some point in your life. Society has made this dental service out to be one of dread. While no one “roots” for more dental treatment, root canal care is a tooth-saving treatment. This can save you from pain and additional treatment in the future making it an advantageous option compared to letting it go untreated.
Take care of your health and get back to your active lifestyle with our root canal treatment. Contact our dental team to get scheduled today!
Root Canal Infections and Tooth-Saving Treatments
A root canal refers to the natural cavity within your tooth that houses the pulp — the nerve and blood supply of the tooth. When people talk about needing a “root canal,” they are actually referring to root canal therapy, a dental procedure used to treat infections within this space.
Root canals are the inner part of your tooth, where the pulp of your tooth resides. It connects to the root of your tooth, which anchors your tooth to your jawbone. Root canals are an essential part of your tooth.
Sometimes root canals can be infected. This happens when a cavity becomes extensive or bacteria reaches the root canal through a severe crack in your tooth. Once your root canal has been infected, you need to act fast.
A root canal treatment clears out the infected pulp and fills your tooth. Often a crown is placed over top to protect your remaining tooth. Root canal treatments are a tooth-saving treatment.
Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?
If you are worried that you need a root canal, the first thing you should do is visit our office in Lafayette, CO. We can conduct an exam or take X-rays, even if you have had them done recently. Dr. Martin will use the information he gets from your visit to make an informed recommendation.
Here are some symptoms to look out for to know if you need a root canal:
- Persistent Tooth Pain
- Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
- Swollen or Tender Gums
- Darkened or Discolored Tooth
- Prolonged Tooth Pain or Ache
- Gum Boil or Pimple
If you notice even one of these symptoms, you can come in for a visit. You don’t have to wait until a 6-month appointment to check in on the health of your smile.
The Risks of Delaying a Root Canal
The longer the infection is left untreated, the worse it becomes, often spreading beyond the affected tooth and into surrounding tissues, gums, and even the jawbone. This can lead to increased pain, swelling, and the development of an abscess, which is a pocket of pus that forms as your body tries to fight the infection. In severe cases, an infection can spread to other parts of your body, causing systemic health issues.
Root canals are intended to save your tooth. If you don’t receive a root canal in time or don’t get the treatment at all, the infection can damage your tooth root, causing you to lose your tooth, or damage your crown, making the tooth impossible to safely restore and leading to a necessary tooth extraction.
A missing tooth leads to a myriad of issues in your smile, such as jawbone density loss and shifting teeth.
What Is Our Process?
1. Consultation
We will start with a consultation, where we will conduct a thorough evaluation of your smile, and listen to your concerns about your oral health.
2. Imaging
We will use X-rays and other imaging to determine the extent of the infection and if a root canal is the right treatment to alleviate your pain or concerns. Our X-rays are complimentary, as we believe that every patient should have access to good care.
3. Treatment
If we decide a root canal will help you and your smile, we will either move forward with the root canal as an emergency procedure that day, or we will schedule an appointment for the next couple of days. Waiting to have a root canal treated can be dangerous and painful.
The root canal treatment works by removing the infected or damaged pulp, cleaning it, and sealing the tooth so it is closed from further bacterial infection. This treatment will not only alleviate pain but also contribute to the longevity of your oral health.
We will administer local anesthesia, but we also offer many kinds of sedation dentistry to help with any anxiety throughout the visit.
We may recommend a crown or other protective measures for the restored tooth, which we will schedule an appointment for at a later time.
4. Aftercare
After treatment has been completed we will provide you with clear instructions and recommendations for the long-term success of your root canal treatment. You may experience some sensitivity, but over-the-counter pain relief should lessen any pain or swelling. If it persists, come visit our office again.
What Causes the Need for a Root Canal?
A root canal becomes necessary when the inner pulp of a tooth becomes infected or severely damaged. This can happen for several reasons, including deep decay from untreated cavities, cracks or fractures that allow bacteria to reach the pulp, or repeated dental procedures that weaken the tooth over time. Trauma to the tooth, even without visible damage, can also lead to pulp inflammation and infection, eventually requiring a root canal.
Preventing a Root Canal
The best way to prevent the need for a root canal is through proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
- Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and limiting sugary foods and drinks help prevent cavities that could lead to deeper infections.
- Routine dental checkups allow your dentist to detect early signs of decay or damage before they become severe.
- Wearing a mouthguard during sports or if you grind your teeth at night can also protect against cracks or fractures that could lead to infection.
- Treating dental emergencies quickly can also prevent bacteria from being introduced into the root canal, because cracks can be treated quickly, without the need for a root canal.
By taking these preventive steps, you can reduce the risk of needing a root canal and maintain a healthy, pain-free smile.
Experience the Difference at James Martin, DMD
Here at James Martin, DMD, we are constantly trying to reach new dental heights by tackling even the toughest issues. One way to change the dental game is through exceptional root canal treatment. Here are some of the main benefits of visiting us for a root canal:
- Comprehensive Diagnosis and Patient-Centric Approach | With our latest technology we can give an accurate diagnosis and early detection. This is valuable time for your tooth! If a root canal is necessary, you will be actively involved in the care process.
- State-of-the-Art Techniques and Technology | Our wealth of experience, tried-and-true techniques, and high-tech office mean you can say goodbye to the discomfort and fear classically associated with root canals and hello to a happy, healthy smile.
- Sedation Dentistry | We offer many kinds of sedation dentistry, some of which are complimentary. This means that on top of the local anesthesia we offer, we can lessen any anxiety or discomfort you have during the procedure for a total fear-free experience.
- Emergency Care | Root canals often have to be treated quickly to prevent extensive pain or infection in your smile. We take dedicated time to treat dental emergencies each day in our office, making it easier for you to be seen quickly.
- CEREC Technology | Sometimes root canals need to be protected by a dental crown. Our CEREC technology creates a crown in one visit, meaning you don’t have to wait for a crown or spend lots of time in the dental chair.
Dr. Martin wants to help you move past dental pain and extensive dental issues, whether from a root canal infection or something else. He has over 2000+ hours of post-residency training; he is a doctor you can trust.
Save Your Tooth Today!
Without root canal treatment you will experience more pain and require additional dental work. Do not let fear keep you from getting tooth-saving treatment. Contact our dental team at James Martin, DMD, to get started on the process today!
About Dr. Martin
Dr. James Martin received his doctorate in dentistry from Boston University in 2011 and then completed a one-year residency at Lutheran Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York. He continues to travel all around the world to attend at least 200 hours a year of continuing education from the leaders in the field. Dr. Martin is also a Kois-trained dentist in order to provide top aesthetic and long-term oral health care. Dr. Martin blends innovation with personalized attention for a healthier, more radiant smile.
Darrell C.
“As a medical provider myself, I am quite impressed by the degree of care provided at this dental office. They have state of the art equipment and a beautiful clinic. Dr. Martin is incredibly thorough and the hygienist Marie has a delicate touch. Everyone at the front desk provided a warm welcome. And the soundtrack playing at the clinic was excellent If you want the best dental care, I recommend going here.”
Cheryl H.
“Dr Martin and the whole staff are amazing! I’ve been seeing Dr Martin for nearly a year now getting a lot of long overdue work done, and am currently nearing the end of the process of getting a couple implants. His work is amazing and top of the line! I have major anxiety in general, but excessive health (dental) anxiety and everyone here has been very supportive and understanding when I had many questions or just needed reassurance. Richelle, Kelly and Sabrina are the best as well and really make the whole experience positive.”
Judy P
“I don’t usually give reviews, but my experience with Dr. Martin and his staff have been excellent and beyond thorough. I’ve always had high anxiety with dental work. But, not this time with this office! I just got 2 crowns and a filling all in one sitting. The coolest thing is their oral sedation (which is free).
Didn’t feel a thing and just slept for a while after the procedure. If you suffer from dental anxiety and are sensitive to pain, I strongly recommend James Martin DMD and their awesome team! They really do rock!”
Jeremy W.
“Words can hardly express my appreciation. Their facility is High tech. They are knowledgeable and compassionate with a great ability to communicate. They enjoy what they do and take pride in their work. Dr. Martin is a true artist of his time and blessing to his field.”
Kathy G.
“This is THE Dental office to go to for fantastic personal care!! Dr James Martin’s staff is as caring and professional as Dr Martin. Every step of the way we have been treated with kindness and respect. Every step of the way the procedure has been explained in detail so I understand why things are going forward & the precise way that they are set out. Thank you to Dr James Martin and team!!”
Sherry W.
“Dr. Martin is the most thorough dentist I have ever been to. He truly cares about his patients and the quality of his work is excellent. The staff is so friendly and efficient at their jobs. The technology they use is very modern and some of their equipment I have never seen before with any of my previous dental offices. I highly recommend James Martin DMD!”
Darby M.
“This is by far the best dentist office I have ever been too. I would recommend them to anyone, especially those with fears of going. I have never felt more welcomed or treated with as much respect.”
Rebecca D.
“I have a major phobia of the dentist. Which has made me not go when I’ve needed too. After my initial call, the office emailed and text to follow up to have me make an appointment. Dr. Martin was great. He talked me through the first step of work I would need, and he made me feel comfortable. I was put under for my first step of work. I got a text the next day to follow up on my care and Dr. Martin talked me through the concerns I had. All of the team was wonderful as well! I appreciate this office and what they do to help people get the care they need.”
Jesse G.
“I’m completely amazed by how wonderful the staff is here as well as Dr. Martin. I can honestly say that I have never been this comfortable at a dentist’s office in my life. Dr. Martin truly cares about his patients and is passionate about what he does. I have low sinuses and he was able to extract my tooth without perforating my sinus. That was a first for me. He listens to his patients. I will never go anywhere else for dental care. From the first point of contact with his office to my most recent follow-up appointment today, the care, the kindness, and the helpfulness have been genuine and consistent!”
Dan C.
“Best dentist I’ve ever had. Everyone on the team is friendly and very knowledgeable. They really make going to the dentist a relaxing experience instead of an anxious one.”
Lauren Y.
“This is the best dentist I’ve ever been to! Go here and you’ll be completely satisfied.”
Brian C.
“All the things I was scared about and all my concerns, Dr. Martin dissuaded me from feeling those things. I’ve never been to any location, like any business or doctor, that’s really cared as much as [this office] does and goes out of their way to make sure that I’m taken care of; that’s a big thing for me. Things that I’m able to do now that I wasn’t before, that’d be being happy and proud to take pictures. Since getting all this work done and completed, I’m actually able to eat all the things that I want now.”
