Root canal therapy is a highly effective procedure designed to save a tooth that has been severely damaged or infected. When decay, trauma or infection reaches the pulp, which is the innermost layer of the tooth, root canal therapy becomes necessary to prevent the loss of the tooth. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels that help keep the tooth healthy. If this area becomes infected, it can cause significant pain, swelling and sensitivity, and if left untreated, it may lead to an abscess or the need for tooth extraction.
During a root canal, the damaged or infected pulp is carefully removed by our experienced dental team. The inside of the tooth is then thoroughly cleaned, disinfected and sealed with a biocompatible material. To ensure the tooth remains strong and functional, our dentist will complete your treatment by placing a dental crown on the treated tooth. This not only restores the tooth’s shape and appearance but also strengthens it to prevent future damage.
Although root canal therapy has a reputation for being uncomfortable, modern techniques and anesthetics make the procedure similar to getting a routine filling. You can expect minimal discomfort, and many patients feel relief from the pain caused by the infection soon after the treatment. The procedure typically takes one or two visits to complete, depending on the complexity of the case.
Dr. Lindsey Dalley is committed to providing you with a comfortable experience. If you are experiencing symptoms such as persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold or swelling around a tooth, it may be time to consider root canal therapy. We are here to help restore your oral health and maintain your smile. Please contact us today at 702-877-2771 to schedule a consultation with our experienced dentist and learn more about root canal therapy in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs that I may need a root canal?
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Common signs that you may need a root canal include prolonged tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling in the gums around the affected tooth or discomfort when chewing. Sometimes, you may also notice discoloration of the tooth or drainage from the gum tissue. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to contact our office for an evaluation.
How can I avoid needing a root canal in the future?
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Practicing good oral hygiene is key to reducing your chances of needing a root canal. This includes brushing twice daily, flossing and visiting our dentist for regular exams and cleanings. Additionally, wearing a mouth guard during sports and avoiding hard foods that could crack a tooth can help prevent trauma that might lead to the need for a root canal.
Is it better to get a root canal or extract the tooth?
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In most cases, it is better to save your natural tooth with a root canal rather than having it extracted. Root canal therapy preserves the structure of your tooth and maintains proper alignment in your mouth. Our dentist will only recommend a tooth extraction if more conservative treatments cannot fully restore the tooth, as extracting a tooth can lead to complications such as shifting teeth or the need for additional dental work, like a bridge or implant, to fill the gap.
How long does a tooth last after a root canal?
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With proper care, a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy can last a lifetime. It is important to maintain excellent oral hygiene and visit our dentist regularly to ensure the restored tooth remains healthy. The dental crown placed over the tooth also provides added protection, allowing the tooth to function normally for many years.
What areas do you serve?
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Our expert dentist and team offer root canal therapy to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada, and the surrounding areas, including Summerlin, Blue Diamond, Boulder City, Canyon Gate Country Club, Centennial Hills, East Las Vegas, Enterprise, Green Valley, Henderson, Lake Las Vegas, the Las Vegas Country Club, the Las Vegas strip, Lee Canyon, Mount Charleston, Mountains Edge, Paradise, Peccole Ranch, Queensridge, Red Rock Country Club, Rhodes Ranch, The Lakes, TPC Las Vegas, Spring Valley, Seven Hills, Silverado Ranch, Southern Highlands and Sun City Summerlin, Nevada. Give us a call for more information or to make an appointment!
702-877-2771