What Is a Root Canal?

If you’re like most people, the term “root canal” probably doesn’t carry a lot of positive connotations. And indeed, a root canal service in Parker, CO is not at the top of anyone’s holiday wish list. That said, there are several misconceptions about what a root canal is, and particularly with the levels of discomfort associated with the procedure. In fact, if you have been experiencing tooth pain, a root canal may well be the quickest and easiest way to relieve the pain that you are feeling. If you have been asking yourself, “What is a root canal?” the team at Signature Smiles in Parker is here to provide you with all of the information you need.

Most people who are debating whether or not to see a dentist about their tooth pain have not effectively answered the question, “What is a root canal?” Put simply, a root canal is a Colorado restorative dentistry procedure in which the damaged or diseased portion of a tooth is safely removed, filled, and sealed, stopping the spread of infection and the pain associated with it.

Underneath the layer of enamel and the layer of protective dentin is the inner part of the tooth that we call the “pulp.” The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and tissue, and one of its main jobs is to help the root of your tooth grow. Problems arise, however, when the root of your tooth gets infected or begins to die. When that happens, the pulp becomes infected and inflamed, and very painful. If you have experienced this kind of pain, you know exactly what a relief it is when it goes away!

And this is where the root canal procedure comes in. In a root canal, the dentist anesthetizes the area and removes the infected or inflamed pulp. Then carefully disinfects the area, and then fills and seals the tooth, preventing any further infection. At Signature Smiles in Parker, CO, we have performed hundreds of root canals, and as our patients can attest, it’s fast, painless, and — most important — extremely effective.

How Much Pain Can I Expect?

A lot of the “bad rap” associated with the root canal procedure comes from an earlier time. When dental procedures and anesthetic practices were not as well developed as they are today. The modern root canal is relatively painless and can be as quick as getting a standard filling. Because of the use of a local anesthetic, most patients report little to no discomfort during the procedure. And barring the numbness they experience, there are rarely any lingering after-effects of a root canal. In fact, most people can return to school or work on the same day!

Reach Out Today

If you are experiencing pain when chewing, have a chipped or otherwise damaged tooth, or are otherwise experiencing prolonged tooth pain or sensitivity, you might need a root canal. If you are experiencing even a small amount of pain, it is worth seeing an experienced professional like Dr. Gunning and his team at Signature Smiles. The earlier you catch the problem, the easier it is to treat! Contact Signature Smiles today at and make your tooth pain a thing of the past.