Severe tooth pain or lingering sensitivity may be a sign of infection inside your tooth. At Valley Dental Care, we offer gentle and effective root canal treatment in Aurora and Oswego to relieve discomfort and save your natural tooth. Despite its reputation, a root canal is a straightforward procedure — and most patients compare it to getting a regular filling.
What Is a Root Canal?
Saving an Infected or Damaged Tooth
A root canal is a treatment used to remove infection or inflammation from inside a tooth. Deep decay, trauma, or cracks can allow bacteria to reach the pulp — the soft tissue at the center of the tooth. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding bone and lead to pain, swelling, or even tooth loss.
During a root canal, we remove the infected pulp, clean the root canals, and seal the space to prevent reinfection. In most cases, a crown is placed afterward to protect and strengthen the tooth.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Common Symptoms of Tooth Infection
Not every toothache requires a root canal, but certain symptoms may indicate the need for treatment:
- Persistent tooth pain, especially when chewing or biting
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
- Swollen or tender gums near the affected tooth
- Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
- A bump or pimple on the gums (abscess)
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, we recommend scheduling an evaluation right away. Early treatment can stop the infection and prevent more extensive dental work.
What to Expect During Treatment
Comfortable and Efficient Care
We take every step to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Root canal treatment is typically performed under local anesthesia and can often be completed in one or two visits. Here’s what the process includes:
- Digital X-rays to assess the root and surrounding bone
- Removal of the infected pulp and cleaning of the canals
- Filling and sealing the root canals with a biocompatible material
- Placement of a temporary or permanent dental crown
Thanks to modern techniques and technology, most patients feel little to no discomfort during or after the procedure.
Aftercare and Recovery
Protecting Your Tooth Long-Term
You may experience mild soreness or sensitivity for a few days after treatment, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. To ensure long-term success, we’ll likely recommend placing a dental crown to restore strength and function to your tooth.
We’ll also schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor healing and ensure everything looks great. With proper care, a tooth that has received a root canal can last for many years.
Why Choose Valley Dental Care?
Gentle, Expert Root Canal Therapy in Aurora and Oswego
Our experienced team at Valley Dental Care uses advanced technology — including digital imaging and rotary endodontic tools — to ensure your treatment is efficient and as stress-free as possible. Whether you need urgent pain relief or have been referred for endodontic care, we’ll walk you through every step of the process.
With convenient locations in Aurora and Oswego, getting the care you need has never been easier.
If you’re dealing with tooth pain or suspect an infection, request an appointment today to get relief fast.
