Root Canals in Fairbanks, AK

At Golden Heart Dental, we understand that many people feel anxious at the thought of a root canal.

We would like to reassure you that this virtually painless procedure alleviates tooth pain rather than causing it. Dr. Miller and her team are committed to providing gentle care that will leave you with a positive, comfortable experience.

What is a root canal and why do you need it?

Also known as endodontic treatment, a root canal is a dental procedure we use to repair a damaged tooth with inflamed or infected tooth pulp. There are various reasons a tooth may sustain damage. Bacteria from deep decay or cavities can reach all the way to the pulp and infect it, or an injury or trauma can cause inflammation. At times the pulp can become inflamed for no apparent reason.

If left untreated, an inflamed or infected tooth pulp can affect your oral health and lead to problems including a severe toothache, swelling, an abscess, or even damage that may require tooth extraction. A root canal preserves your tooth, relieves your pain, and may prevent a dental emergency down the road.

Do you need a root canal?

Symptoms you need root canal treatment include gum or tooth pain, a bump on the gum, tenderness, tooth discoloration, or sensitivity to heat and cold. In some cases, you may not experience any symptoms. That is why it’s important to keep up with your dental checkups every six months. We will x-ray and examine your teeth to identify and treat any condition before it progresses.

The root canal procedure explained

We will start by numbing the area using a local anesthetic and will administer sedation if needed to ensure your comfort. Next, will make a small opening through the back of a front tooth or the crown of a molar. After removing the diseased pulp, we will clean, sterilize, and seal the space. Following the procedure, you will need a dental crown to strengthen and protect your tooth. With proper care, your restoration can last a lifetime.