Frequently Asked Questions
What is a root canal?
When tooth pulp is infected and inflamed due to decay, faulty crowns, cracks, or other dental issues, the best way to treat the infection to save the natural tooth is through endodontics or a root canal.
Root canal treatment involves removing the pulp from the tooth to eliminate the infection. Once the infected pulp is removed, the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, filled, and topped with a dental crown to help prevent future infection.
How long does a root canal procedure last?
On average, root canal procedures can last around 90 minutes. Ultimately, the duration may vary depending on the patient and the infection of the tooth. During your root canal appointment, our Denver endodontist will prep the material for treatment, clean out and refill the tooth, and place a temporary crown.
Do root canals hurt?
The myth of root canals being painful originates from when technology and sedation weren’t as good as it is today. At Art of Endodontics, we invest in technology and techniques that can make your Denver root canal no more painful or uncomfortable than getting a filling! Dr. Paguio and our Art of Endodontics team also administer sedation to help keep patients relaxed and comfortable through treatment.
What are the benefits of a root canal?
A root canal can save a natural tooth that is suffering from an infection. While our Denver endodontist, Dr. Paguio, can explain more benefits, some main benefits of a root canal include:
- Restoring chewing and normal bite
- Prevention of infection to adjacent teeth
- Boosting overall and oral health
Do you have sedation options?
We understand that when you need a root canal in Denver, sedation for relaxation may be part of your decision when selecting an endodontist.
At Art of Endodontics, we offer nitrous oxide and general anesthesia for patients undergoing treatment. Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a mask placed over the nose and mouth to create a sense of relaxation. For patients with more severe dental anxiety or undergoing more invasive treatment, we work with an anesthesiologist who administers general anesthesia throughout treatment.
Dr. Paguio, our Denver endodontist, will walk you through each sedation option.
How much is a root canal in Denver?
If you need a root canal in Denver, it is best not to delay treatment due to cost concerns. Our dental office accepts a variety of payment options. We are insurance friendly and can help file and track your claims. Our team wants you to make the most of your dental insurance benefits. Call our office today for a list of current providers and to discuss your financial options!
Why a root canal? Why not just extract the tooth?
It’s in the best interest of your oral health to save your natural tooth. No artificial tooth can match the look, feel, and function of your natural tooth. Our Denver endodontist will always aim to save your natural tooth instead of suggesting an extraction so you can keep your natural smile!
Hot or cold, my teeth hate both! Why are they so sensitive, and how can I stop the pain?
Sensitivity is a common complaint among patients. Several factors may cause tooth sensitivity. Involuntary grinding, jaw clenching, gum recession, and enamel loss can cause teeth to become extra sensitive to hot or cold temperatures. Braces and teeth whitening can also cause temporary sensitivity!
Since the cause of tooth sensitivity is diverse, we suggest scheduling an appointment with our Denver endodontist to determine the root of the sensitivity and the best way to treat it. Sometimes, all you need is a softer toothbrush or special toothpaste!
What is endodontic retreatment?
Though root canal treatments are often one and done, sometimes a tooth that has been treated doesn’t heal properly. If the tooth has failed to heal or becomes reinfected months or years after treatment, endodontic retreatment can be another chance to save your natural tooth. The infected tooth will be reopened, cleaned, and refilled during endodontic retreatment.