Root Canal Treatment in Midvale, UT
To many people, the idea of a root canal sounds intimidating. In reality, modern root canal treatment is comfortable and routine – often no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. At Focus Dental Group, our dentists use gentle techniques to remove infection, relieve pain, and save your natural tooth. Most patients are surprised at how much better they feel once treatment is complete.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is Root Canal Therapy?
Inside every tooth is a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes inflamed or infected due to deep tooth decay, a crack, or trauma, root canal treatment is needed to clean out the infection and save the tooth. Without treatment, the infection can spread, cause an abscess, and lead to tooth loss.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
In the early stages of infection, you may not feel any pain. As it progresses, you may notice:
- A severe or lingering toothache
- Pain when chewing or biting
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swelling or tenderness in the nearby gums
- A pimple-like bump on the gums
- Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
Any of these may indicate a tooth infection. If you are in pain, call us for emergency dental care.
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
- Relieves the pain caused by infection
- Removes bacteria and irritants from inside the tooth
- Keeps the surrounding tissues healthy
- Saves your natural tooth, avoiding the need for an extraction and replacement
- Restores normal biting and chewing
The Root Canal Procedure
Numbing
Your dentist applies local anesthetic to the area around the affected tooth. You may feel a brief pinch, but it passes quickly.
Cleaning the Canals
Once the tooth is numb, a small opening is made in the top of the tooth. Using specialized instruments, the dentist carefully removes the infected or damaged pulp and cleans each canal.
Disinfecting and Sealing
The canals are disinfected to eliminate remaining bacteria, then filled and sealed with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. A temporary filling closes the opening. Antibiotics may be prescribed if needed.
Restoring the Tooth
At a follow-up visit, the temporary filling is replaced with a permanent filling or a dental crown to strengthen and protect the tooth.
Comfort Options
If dental anxiety has kept you from getting treatment, ask about our sedation dentistry options. Our dentists will also discuss your pain tolerance and create a pain management plan before your procedure.
Protecting Your Tooth After Treatment
After a root canal, brush and floss normally, avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth until it is restored, and keep up with regular checkups. If a tooth can’t be saved, we can discuss replacement options such as dental implants.
To learn more about root canal treatment, stop by Focus Dental Group at 6770 S 900 E, Suite 301, Midvale, UT 84047, or call (801) 255-7101 to schedule an appointment.
Root Canal FAQs
Is a root canal painful?
With modern anesthesia and techniques, a root canal typically feels similar to getting a filling. Most patients feel relief because the infection causing their pain is removed.
How long does a root canal take?
Most root canals are completed in one or two appointments, each lasting about an hour or more depending on the tooth.
Do I need a crown after a root canal?
Many teeth, especially back teeth, need a crown after a root canal to protect them from breaking.
What happens if I don’t get a root canal?
An untreated infection can spread, cause an abscess, damage the surrounding bone, and lead to tooth loss.
Can a tooth infection go away without treatment?
No. A tooth infection requires professional treatment such as a root canal or extraction.
How long does a tooth last after a root canal?
With a proper restoration and good oral hygiene, a tooth treated with a root canal can last for many years, often a lifetime.
Can I go back to work after a root canal?
Most patients can return to normal activities the same day or the next day.