Root Canal Therapy

When a tooth becomes infected either from a cavity or trauma, it is necessary to perform endodontic (root canal) treatment to save the tooth and eliminate the infection. Sometimes, an infected tooth shows no symptoms, but more often, an infection is easy to spot because it causes pain, swelling or sensitivity. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, Dr. Clayton M. Hansen may recommend a root canal in American Fork, Utah. Root canal therapy is the process by which our dentist will remove infected dental pulp, debris and bacteria. The dental pulp is the area in the center of a tooth where the veins, nerves and connective tissues are located.

Our dentist will take an X-ray to examine the shape of your root canals and see if there is any infection in the surrounding bone. If a root canal is needed, an access hole is drilled into the tooth, through which the dental pulp, bacteria and debris are removed. Our dentist will use root canal files to clean out your tooth all the way down the roots. Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, our dentist will seal it with a sealer paste and a rubber compound. The access hole is closed with a dental filling.

Many people still believe that root canals are the apex of discomfort in the dental office, but that is simply not the case. Root canal therapy is a treatment that relieves pain and discomfort; it does not create either! With modern technology and advanced endodontic tools, root canals are more comfortable and effective than ever, helping you to smile, speak and eat with complete comfort once again. If you have been avoiding a root canal treatment because of fear, please reach out to us so we can help you know how this option can give you back your oral health!

Feel free to contact our dental office today to learn more and to schedule an appointment.