Root Canals

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a procedure used to salvage a tooth by removing an infected and damaged root nerve. The surgery involves gently removing the nerve and pulp to prevent further damage to the surrounding teeth and gum.

Even though the procedure is referred to as a root canal, the root itself does not get removed; only the soft tissue from inside the structure gets removed. If decay is minimal, a small filling will be required. If decay is more extensive, root canal therapy will be required.

Do Root Canals Hurt?

A root canal is generally a simple procedure with little or no discomfort involved. The treatment takes between one to three visits to our office. If you continue to maintain good oral hygiene after your root canal, your restored tooth could last a lifetime.

If you find yourself nervous about the prospect of a root canal, please tell our team. We want you to feel comfortable and have a pain-free experience, and we will work with you to ensure your entire visit with us is stress-free.

What Causes Infected Pulp?

An infected pulp doesn’t happen overnight. It’s usually the result of damage or decay that reaches deep inside the tooth. Several common issues can lead to infection and inflammation within the pulp, eventually requiring root canal treatment to save the tooth:

• A deep cavity
• Injury to the tooth, with or without visible damage
• Repeated dental procedures
• A broken tooth

Signs You Might Need a Root Canal

Many people wait until dental pain becomes unbearable before seeking treatment, but catching infection early can make a huge difference in your comfort and long-term oral health. If you notice any of the symptoms below, it may be time to see a root canal specialist for evaluation:

• Persistent or throbbing toothache
• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the source is gone
• Swelling or tenderness around a tooth or the gumline
• Darkening or discoloration of a tooth
• A small pimple-like bump on the gums near the affected area

These signs often point to infection inside the tooth where the nerve and pulp are located. Seeking prompt care allows your dentist to perform a root canal before the infection spreads, helping you avoid pain and preserve your natural tooth.

What to Expect During Root Canal Treatment

At Legacy Dental, our team understands that many patients feel anxious when they hear the words “root canal.” That’s why we’ve made every step of root canal treatment as comfortable and straightforward as possible.

First, your dentist will take advanced 3D images to locate the infected tissue precisely. The area is then completely numbed to ensure a painless experience. Using modern endodontic instruments, the damaged pulp is gently removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected, and the canal is sealed to prevent reinfection. Once treatment is finished, a custom crown or restoration will strengthen and protect the tooth for years to come.

Why Choose Our Fort Wayne Dental Clinic for Your Root Canal

At Legacy Dental, our experienced team combines advanced technology with compassionate care to deliver superior results. We’ve provided trusted dental care to the Fort Wayne community since 1998, serving more than 180,000 patients.

Our modern office features innovations like digital X-rays, 3D cone beam imaging, and laser dentistry, allowing us to perform every root canal with precision and comfort. We also offer sedation options to help you relax throughout your visit. When you choose Legacy Dental, you’re choosing a team that puts your comfort, safety, and long-term oral health first.

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Learn More About Our Process for Root Canals in Fort Wayne, IN & the Roanoke & Huntington, IN, Areas

Don’t wait for pain to worsen. Protect your smile with expert care from Legacy Dental’s trusted root canal specialists in Fort Wayne, IN. Call today or request an appointment online to experience gentle, advanced root canal treatment that restores comfort and keeps your natural tooth healthy for years to come.