When your teeth get decayed or infected, root canal treatment can help to decrease pain and save your natural tooth. At Central Valley Dentistry, we aim to provide you with comfortable and effective root canal treatment to protect your smile. Here, we are to provide you with comprehensive information about this dental procedure. So, read on to get the answer to all your questions.

What Is Root Canal Treatment?

It is a dental procedure that can remove infected tissue from inside the tooth and prevent further infection. After the procedure, you may experience mild soreness that usually fades within 2 or 3 days. If you experience pain, swelling, or sensitivity in your tooth, you can opt for this treatment. You can also choose this treatment if you have a severely decayed or cracked tooth.

The minimum age for root canal treatment​ varies. It’s generally appropriate for patients aged 12 and older.

Types of Root Canal Treatment

This dental treatment falls into different types and can address specific dental issues. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of root canal Phoenix:

Standard root canal

This treatment is used when decay or infection affects the tooth’s pulp. During the procedure, the dentist removes the infected pulp, cleans and shapes the root canal system, and then fills and seals it to prevent more infection.

Retreatment

Dentists use it when you have a persistent or new infection after an initial root canal. The dentist reopens the tooth, removes the previous filling materials, cleans the canals, and refills them to get rid of infection and promote healing.

Endodontic Surgery

It is used when non-surgical treatments aren’t sufficient. During this surgical procedure, the dentist removes the tip of the tooth’s root and surrounding infected tissue to resolve the infection and preserve the tooth.

Pulpotomy

Dentists perform pulpotomy on children with primary (baby) teeth. During the procedure, the dentist removes the diseased part of the pulp from the crown of the tooth and leaves the healthy root pulp intact. It can treat extensive decay that hasn’t reached the root pulp.

Pulpectomy

It is the complete removal of the pulp tissue from both the crown and roots of the tooth. They perform it when the entire pulp is infected or damaged, and it’s a precursor to a full root canal treatment.

Apexogenesis

It aims to preserve the vitality of the pulp in a tooth with an incompletely formed root. It promotes continued root development and strengthening. Young patients with pulp exposures due to trauma or decay can go for this treatment.

Root Canal Treatment Steps

Root canal treatment is performed through different steps. Let’s see the steps of the root canal treatment procedure​:

  1. First, Your dentist numbs the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic.
  2. Then, they make a small incision into the top of the tooth to get access to the infected or damaged pulp tissue inside.
  3. They remove the infected pulp tissue, clean out the inside of each root canal, and shape the canal for filling by using small, specialized instruments.
  4. After they clean and shape your teeth, the root canals are disinfected to remove any remaining bacteria and decrease the risk of reinfection.
  5. The dentist fills the cleaned canals with a biocompatible material and seals the space to prevent bacteria from entering.
  6. Finally, they seal the access hole with a temporary or permanent filling.

Note: In many cases, they cover your tooth with a crown to restore its strength and function, offering added protection for long-term durability.

What Happens After Root Canal Treatment?

After undergoing a root canal in Phoenix, AZ, you may experience mild pain or swelling in the affected area. This typically fades away within 2 to 5 days. Proper care can help you recover sooner. Let’s see aftercare together:

  • Try not to chew on the treated side.
  • Brush and floss your teeth like before, but be gentle around the treated area.
  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
  • Take antibiotics or pain relievers if prescribed to manage pain and prevent infection.
  • If you have severe pain, swelling, or signs of infection, call your dentist.
What Happens After Root Canal Treatment

Root Canal Before and After Tooth Decay Treatment​

Before Treatment:

  • Your tooth is decayed and infected, and you feel pain.
  • Your teeth are sensitive to hot and cold foods.
  • You experience swelling or redness around the tooth.
  • Your tooth may look darker or have visible damage.

After Treatment:

  • You have clean, sealed, and pain-free teeth.
  • Your teeth don’t feel sensitive anymore.
  • Your teeth regain their strength.
  • Your tooth functions like a natural tooth again.

How Much is It for Root Canal Treatment?

The root canal cost depends on factors like tooth location, severity of infection, and treatment complexity. Many dental insurance plans may cover a part of treatment, often up to 50-80%, especially when it is medically necessary. For root canal treatment costs without insurance, you need to pay for the entire procedure of both the root canal and any additional restorative treatments like crowns or fillings. If you want to learn the root canal cost Phoenix, call us at (602) 246-0385.

What is the Natural Treatment for Root Canal Infection?

Some people use home remedies like saltwater rinses, clove oil, or garlic. These home remedies may ease pain, but they won’t cure a root canal infection. For example, rinsing with salt water can reduce surface inflammation, but it doesn’t help a deep infection. Sometimes, trying to treat an infection at home can make it worse. Don’t forget that only a skilled dentist can fully remove the infection and properly seal the tooth. Home treatments may provide short-term relief, but they can’t replace professional care.

How Long Does Root Canal Treatment Take?

The timeline of root canal treatment in Phoenix is based on the specific needs of your tooth and the extent of infection. Let’s see how long each type takes:

  • Standard Root Canal takes 1–2 visits lasting 60–90 minutes.
  • Retreatment needs 2–3 visits lasting 90 minutes or more.
  • Endodontic Surgery (Apicoectomy) takes 1–2 visits lasting 60–90 minutes.
  • Pulpotomy takes 1 visit, lasting around 30–60 minutes.
  • A pulpectomy needs 1 visit, lasting about 60–90 minutes.
  • Apexogenesis needs 1–2 visits lasting 60–90 minutes.

How to Avoid a Root Canal

You need to do the following to prevent root canal:

  • Try to brush your teeth twice a day and floss them once daily.
  • Refrain from sugary foods and drinks.
  • Schedule dental checkups every six months.
  • Consider sealants or fluoride treatments.
  • If you notice signs of a cavity or gum inflammation, go to the dentist.
  • Wear a mouthguard in case you grind your teeth.
  • Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash.
  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day to wash away food particles.
  • Avoid tobacco products.

Pro Tip: If you don’t take proper care of your teeth, you will face root canal treatment side effects.

Root Canal Treatment Near Me in Phoenix

If you’re in Phoenix and searching for reliable root canal treatment, Central Valley Dentistry can help you. Our root canal dentists in Phoenix prioritizes your comfort and provides the best dental service. If you are not sure about choosing this kind of treatment, make an online appointment right now for free consultation.

FAQ

Many report mild discomfort after treatment, manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.

This treatment removes infected tissue from inside a tooth, relieving pain and preventing future infection.

Costs depend on the complexity of the procedure and whether you have dental insurance.

Common signs include throbbing pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, and gum swelling near the tooth. If you experience these, contact your dentist.