Preserving Your Natural Tooth and Relieving Pain
An infected tooth can cause persistent pain, swelling, and sensitivity—and if left untreated, the infection may spread to surrounding tissues and bone. Root canal therapy removes the source of infection from inside the tooth, allowing it to heal and remain in place.
Preserving your natural tooth helps maintain proper bite alignment, chewing efficiency, and long-term oral stability—often avoiding the need for extraction and replacement.
What Is A Root Canal?
Root canal therapy—also known as endodontic treatment—removes infected or inflamed nerve tissue from the center of the tooth. This tissue, called the pulp, extends from the crown of the tooth through narrow canals to the root tips.
When the pulp becomes infected due to deep decay, cracks, repeated dental procedures, or trauma, root canal therapy is required to save the tooth.
You may need a root canal if you experience:
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold
- Darkening or discoloration of a tooth
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums or jaw
- A recurring pimple-like bump on the gums
The Root Canal Process at DGY Dentistry
Root canal treatment is carefully planned and completed over one to three visits, depending on the tooth and complexity of infection.
Access & Cleaning
Local anesthetic is used to ensure comfort. An access opening is created in the tooth, and specialized instruments are used to remove infected pulp from the pulp chamber and root canals. The canals are then thoroughly cleaned and shaped.
Filling & Sealing
Once the canals are disinfected and prepared, they are filled and sealed to prevent reinfection. A temporary filling is placed to close the access opening while the tooth stabilizes.
Final Restoration
Following root canal therapy, the tooth is typically restored with a custom dental crown. This final step protects the treated tooth, restores full chewing function, and reinforces long-term stability.
Why Choose DGY Dentistry for Root Canals in Ann Arbor?
Root canal therapy requires accuracy and attention to detail. At DGY Dentistry, we use advanced imaging, magnification, and refined technique to ensure complete infection removal and predictable outcomes.
Each tooth is evaluated individually, and treatment is coordinated with restorative planning to preserve strength, comfort, and function after therapy is complete.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals
The procedure is performed with local anesthetic, so patients typically feel no pain during treatment—only pressure or vibration. Mild post-treatment soreness may occur and is usually manageable with over-the-counter medication.
Treatment time varies by tooth type and complexity. Front teeth often require less time, while molars with multiple canals may take longer. We discuss expectations before treatment begins.
Cost depends on the tooth being treated and case complexity. Many dental insurance plans provide partial coverage. A clear estimate is provided prior to treatment.
We recommend waiting until numbness wears off and the temporary filling has set. Soft foods are advised until the final restoration is placed.
Untreated infection can spread to surrounding bone and tissues, potentially leading to tooth loss or systemic complications. Early treatment improves comfort and outcomes.
A Conservative Approach to Saving Teeth
If you are experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity, or signs of infection, we invite you to schedule an evaluation at DGY Dentistry. Root canal therapy can relieve discomfort and preserve your natural tooth—restoring stability with precision and care.
