Root Canals

What is a root canal?

Inside your tooth, below the hard enamel and dentin, is a mass of tissue called pulp. The pulp surrounds the nerves at the center of your tooth and it is sensitive to bacteria. If the pulp becomes exposed to potential infectants or bacteria — for example, if you have a crack or chip in your tooth — pulp can become infected. An untreated infection of the pulp can lead to pain, dental decay, and even tooth loss.

Root canal therapy is the process of removing the infected pulp from the center of your tooth. It is a non-surgical procedure that requires your dentist to make a small opening to remove the rotten tissue. The center of your tooth is then filled with a root canal filling.

How do I know if I need one?

The common symptoms of a root canal infection include sensitivity and pain around the infected tooth. Often, an infected tooth is highly sensitive to pressure and temperature, and the gums around the tooth might swell.

Not everyone who has an infection experiences these symptoms. You may have an asymptomatic root canal infection, and you might not know it’s there until you begin to experience more serious signs of decay. Because of this, adults are encouraged to visit the dentist regularly and stay up-to-date on their dental x-rays.

brunette woman reading a book and holding her jaw in pain

female dental assistant comforting female patient

Does a root canal hurt?

Root canals are often thought to be painful, but it’s almost always the infection that causes pain, not the procedure. Even though your tooth may be painful before and immediately after the surgery due to the infected tissue around your dental nerves, the root canal procedure itself adds very little pain to the process — it actually reduces your pain once treated.

Root canals are non-surgical and typically, dentists use local anesthesia to numb the area. Even if your infection is particularly painful, take hope — the vast majority of root canal fillings last a lifetime.

Appointment scheduling was quick and painless. Received a call for intake questions prior to first appointment so that all the paperwork was done. We showed up a little early to our appointment and they got us in early. My son had broken his teeth, so they did everything they could to fix them on that initial appointment. Told my son what they were doing every step of the way and when he was uncomfortable they did what they could to distract him. Staff we’re friendly and welcoming and treated us like family. Highly recommend!

Chauntel, ESPIRE Patient

I just moved here this week and experienced a horrible toothache! The staff was so kind and accommodating for me to get right in! We he dentist was awesome, explained his assessment and even gave me antibiotics for the infection. The staff welcomed not only myself but my service dog, who loved playing with the staff before we left. Probably the nicest dentist and staff that I have ever met!

Todd, ESPIRE Patient

Natalie is an amazing hygienist! We always have fun and makes me laugh! And she genuinely cares about the progress and health of what’s going on in my mouth! They also take care of both my kids and make things quick and easy and thanks for the sheep video 😂! I can only speak great things about her and Espire Dental!

Megan, ESPIRE Patient

Espire Dental came highly recommended to me by my daughter, and I am glad I listened to her. Very professional but not coldly clinical. Instead, I was greeted with a warm Wyoming welcome by each staff member I dealt with. Thank you all at Espire Dental.

Lorie, ESPIRE Patient

I have a bit of anxiety when going to the dentist, however, the staff at Espire are so friendly and welcoming, this was the most pleasant dentist appointment I’ve ever had!! Carol at the front desk was so friendly, and Natalie the hygienist, along with Dr Tolley being so informative and explaining everything very thoroughly! I learned so much more about my dental health with Natalie & Dr Tolley than I ever have at previous dental offices. Thank you Espire & staff for such a positive experience!

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