If you’ve been told you need a root canal, you probably have questions—and maybe even a few concerns. At Sundance Family Dental, we want our patients to feel informed and confident before beginning any procedure. Dr. Kyle Birchall and Dr. Drew Miner offer skilled, compassionate care for root canals for Orem patients, ensuring your treatment is as comfortable and effective as possible.
In this post, we’ll answer the 10 most common questions about root canals, so you’ll know exactly what to expect and how this treatment can save your smile.
1. What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that removes infected or damaged pulp from inside a tooth. Once the pulp is removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned, disinfected, and sealed. This allows the tooth to function normally without causing pain or spreading infection.
2. Why Might I Need a Root Canal?
You may need a root canal if you experience:
- Severe tooth pain
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swelling around the tooth or gums
- Darkening of the tooth
- A visible crack or chip
An untreated infection can lead to serious complications, so scheduling treatment quickly is important.
3. Are Root Canals Painful?
Modern techniques and anesthesia make root canals much more comfortable than most expect. Most patients report that having a root canal feels similar to getting a filling. The procedure relieves pain caused by infection, rather than forcing it.
4. How Long Does the Procedure Take?
Most root canal treatments take one to two visits and last 60 to 90 minutes. The exact timeline will depend on your case’s complexity and the tooth’s location.
5. What Happens During a Root Canal?
During the procedure, our team will:
- Numb the area to ensure comfort.
- Create a small opening in the tooth to access the pulp chamber.
- Remove the infected tissue.
- Clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth.
- Seal the tooth to prevent future infection.
A dental crown is often placed afterward to restore strength and appearance.
6. How Should I Prepare for a Root Canal?
We recommend:
- Eating a light meal before your appointment (unless otherwise instructed).
- Taking any prescribed antibiotics.
- Arranging transportation if you prefer sedation.
Our general dentistry services keep you informed and comfortable before, during, and after treatment.
7. What Is Recovery Like?
Mild soreness or sensitivity is normal for a few days after your root canal. Over-the-counter pain relievers usually manage any discomfort. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your final restoration is placed.
8. How Long Will My Tooth Last After a Root Canal?
With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, a tooth with a root canal can last many years—often a lifetime. Using a custom crown helps protect and strengthen the tooth for long-term function.
9. Are There Alternatives to Root Canals?
The only alternative to a root canal for an infected tooth is extraction. However, keeping your natural tooth whenever possible is best for oral health. We may recommend tooth replacement options like dental bridges or implants if extraction becomes necessary.
10. Why Choose Sundance Family Dental for Root Canals in Orem?
Dr. Kyle Birchall and Dr. Drew Miner bring extensive experience, attention to detail, and a compassionate approach to every root canal. Our Orem patients appreciate that we:
- Use advanced technology for precise, efficient treatment
- Offer a comfortable, welcoming environment
- Provide clear explanations so you understand every step
Root Canals for Orem Residents: Key Takeaways
Root canals are a safe, effective way to save teeth. For Orem residents, they:
- Relieve pain caused by infection
- Prevent the need for tooth extraction
- Restore chewing and speaking function
- Preserve your natural smile
By addressing infection early, you avoid more complicated and costly procedures later.
Visit Sundance Family Dental in Orem
At Sundance Family Dental, dental care should be a positive experience—even when dealing with something as serious as a root canal. Our patient-focused approach ensures you feel informed, supported, and comfortable walking through our doors. If you’ve been putting off treatment, let us help you take that first step toward a pain-free, healthy smile you can rely on for years.
Schedule your consultation to see if a root canal is the solution for you to save a tooth.