Woman holding hand to jaw in pain

Root Canal

Are you dealing with advanced tooth decay, a grueling toothache, or swollen gums? These are common signs of needing a root canal. Dr. Terrance Wolbaum performs root canal therapy to relieve your painful symptoms so you can get back to your day-to-day life. Find out how our state-of-the-art dental office in Aurora, CO, can help you start feeling better right away.

In Pain?
Don't Delay

Acting now can help save your tooth. Not to mention, it can save you unnecessary discomfort. If you're experiencing swelling, sensitivity, or a loose tooth, contact our team.

Root Canal Therapy

Illustration of root canal procedure

What Is Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy removes the pulp inside a tooth's root canal if it has become infected, clearing the infection while preserving the tooth structure. Root canal therapy prevents harmful bacteria from spreading and causing more adverse effects throughout your mouth and body, like tooth loss or heart disease.

Illustration of tooth with bacteria

What Causes Root Canal Infections?

A root canal infection occurs when bacteria grow in the pulp of your tooth, leading to painful side effects like swelling or difficulty chewing. This infection may result from an untreated cavity, tooth decay, or tooth damage caused by trauma or breakage. Fortunately, your dentist or endodontist can remove the infected pulp with root canal treatment.

Scared? In Pain? You're Not Alone.

Do You Need Root Canal Therapy? Request a Consultation Today

The idea of a root canal infection can seem overwhelming. However, dentists perform millions of root canal treatments each year — and the patients who receive them leave with their oral health restored. Like them, you can benefit from root canal therapy.

At Pioneer Hills Dental, you're in good hands with Dr. Wolbaum. Not only will he treat you with empathy and understanding, but he has the dentistry experience and tools to give you a high standard of care. Dr. Wolbaum will keep you comfortable and informed throughout your root canal treatment, taking the anxiety out of your visit.

Don't delay root canal therapy. Instead, contact our Aurora, CO, office or call:

(303) 766-8811

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Thanks to proven dentistry techniques, root canal therapy performed at our Aurora practice is virtually pain-free.

"By Far, the Best Experience" Aurora Patients Trust Our Team

1

Alijah Smith

2020

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I always hated going to the dentist until I found Pioneer Hills. Dr. Wolbaum and his staff are caring, efficient, and professional. Their oral health services are excellent, and they are compassionate about your health. By far, the best experience!

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1

Deborah Michael

2020

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Outstanding customer service, personalized care from Dr. Wolbaum and a gentle hygienist. As an orthodontist and former general dentist, I could not ask for more! Absolutely recommend!

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The Many Benefits of a Root Canal

Pain Relief

Once an infection reaches the center of the tooth, the pain can be excruciating. A root canal removes the source of the pain by removing the infected pulp and cleaning the canals. This allows patients to finally be able to eat, sleep, and continue with their normal activities pain-free.

Tooth Preservation

A root canal can save your tooth from extraction. Dentists and endodontists strongly prefer to perform a root canal procedure instead of extraction because it preserves your natural tooth. A missing tooth can be replaced with a dental implant, which is far costlier and complex compared to a root canal.

Restored Oral Health

If left untreated, tooth decay or deep cavities can spread to surrounding teeth. This puts your oral health at risk and increases the chance of the infection spreading throughout the body. A root canal is a commonly performed and trusted dentistry procedure that provides a wealth of benefits and peace of mind.

A Closer Look at the Root Canal Procedure 

Our dentist uses advanced techniques to remove the inflamed pulp from the tooth during root canal therapy.

Do You Have Any of These Symptoms?  You May Need a Root Canal

Act quickly if you notice signs like:

  • Toothache
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Discoloration
  • Swollen gums
  • Chronic bad breath
  • Abscess

Do All Infected Root Canals Hurt?

No, not all infected root canals hurt. You may display some of the other signs of an infection, such as swelling or a change in tooth color.

Just because your tooth does not hurt doesn't mean that there are no bacteria present. It's always a good idea to visit your dentist at Pioneer Hills Dental regularly, or if you notice any new changes in your mouth.

Even if you have another issue, such as a cavity or a chipped tooth, timely treatment is still important. So, contact us for peace of mind and excellent care.

Busy Schedule? Choose an Office That Understands

We're a family dentistry practice — so of course, we understand the packed schedules that many of our patients have. Instead of stressing about finding root canal treatment for your tooth during a busy day, take advantage of our helpful scheduling.

Pioneer Hills Dental is open early mornings and offers extended weekday hours for your emergency care. That way, you can find relief for your painful root canal problem quickly.

Don't wait. Contact our friendly Aurora office for your root canal therapy consultation or call

(303) 766-8811

Smiling patient looking at teeth with a hand mirror
Though this situation can feel stressful, you're not alone. Dr. Wolbaum and his caring team are here to make you feel at ease by offering warm treatments and by accepting dental financing.


Get Help

An Aurora Patient Shares Their Story

"I had an emergency dental need and Dr. Terrance made himself available by cell phone. He was responsible and quick to help. My experience was really great; this is a compassionate and competent practice." Katie Hummer


Dental Crowns Strengthen Your Tooth
And Provide a Stunning Smile

Patients may worry that their tooth will never work or look the same again after root canal therapy. That's not the case, thanks to the help of dental crowns.

In fact, advances in dental technology mean stronger and more functional crowns. We also use high-quality materials and techniques, which allow your crown to blend in easily with your natural enamel.

Once your treatment is complete, you will be able to enjoy eating, talking, and smiling just like you used to do.
 

See How Simple Crown Placement Is

Once your natural-looking new crown has been made, you'll return to our office for placement. Dr. Wolbaum will attach it your tooth, making sure it's firmly in place. The crown will protect your tooth and newly-cleaned pulp, allowing you to get back to everyday life.


Will You Need to Remove My Tooth?

Endodontists and dentists hear this question all the time. Often, the answer is no, especially if you contact us as soon as possible. That gives the infection less chance to spread through your tooth's pulp and roots, and it can keep the structure of your tooth intact.

However, even if your case ends up being more complicated than you'd hoped, you've picked the right person for the job. Dr. Wolbaum is a Misch Fellowship Dentist — an honor that represents his extensive experience with dental implants.

In cases where a tooth can't be saved, he can carefully place a long-lasting implant after your tooth has been extracted. Then, he'll cover it with an abutment and crown for a full and healthy new smile.
 

What to Expect During Root Canal Treatment

If a crown is needed after your root canal, our Aurora practice can help with that too.
If a crown is needed after your root canal, our Aurora practice can help with that too.

Consultation

At your initial consultation at our Aurora dental office, Dr. Wolbaum will learn about your symptoms and determine if root canal treatment is right for you. He will use digital x-rays to examine your tooth and identity any signs of an infection to plan your treatment.

Treatment

After numbing the area with local anesthesia, a small opening is created on the surface of the tooth to access the pulp (contains nerves, blood vessels, and soft tissue). The infected pulp is carefully removed from the tooth using delicate dental tools and sophisticated techniques. The canals are then cleaned and disinfected, filled with a rubber-like dental material, and sealed off.

Dental Crown

In many cases, patients require a dental crown after root canal treatment to provide structural support to the tooth. This ensures the tooth is strong enough to chew and bite normally. It will look just like your natural teeth, blending in easily with your smile.

Save Time At Your Appointment

​It can be hard to feel like it, but you are still in control of your treatment. Give yourself some well-deserved peace of mind by entering in your patient information online.

The Root Canal Treatment Recovery Process

The most stressful part of your treatment is over! Once your Aurora dentist, Dr. Wolbaum, has expertly and compassionately treated the infected pulp in your tooth, you can rest and relax at home. 

Your recovery typically will take about a week, though you can likely return to your regular schedule after a day or two. You may feel some discomfort, but now that your infection has been treated, you will not have to endure the higher level of pain of an infected root canal.

If you need something to alleviate any tenderness, consider an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory option, like aspirin or ibuprofen.

Choose a Dentist You Can Trust Throughout Your Treatment

No two root canal cases are exactly the same. Even if you have more extensive needs, our dentist is here to help.

In addition to treating your tooth for infected pulp, he finishes treatment by making sure that the area is protected for years to come. Dr. Wolbaum can place a traditional custom crown over your tooth, restoring functionality after a root canal.

In situations where the infection has had more time to spread through your root canal, he can still keep your smile intact with an implant-supported crown.

Whether your treatment is simple or more involved, you've found a team prepared for the task. To request a consultation, message our Aurora, CO, office or call

(303) 766-8811

Happy patient looking at smile in the mirror
Dr. Wolbaum and the team at Pioneer Hills Dental will keep you calm and comfortable. From our judgment-free attitudes to our focus on patient education, let us give you peace of mind.

Patients and Dental Professionals Alike Trust Pioneer Hills Dental in Aurora, CO

1

Jerry Z

2019

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Dr. Wolbaum and everyone at Pioneer Hills are great...very professional and courteous. They took the time to answer my questions about procedures - even my dumb questions.

Their equipment and procedures appear to be state-of-the-art. I highly recommend them!

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1

Rick Sullivan

2016

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As a dental professional, I am very selective of where I receive my dental care. I've been a patient of Dr. T for over a year. Dr. T is the best hands down. His chairside manners are fantastic which helps with my anxiety when seeing a dentist. He is funny and make me feel comfortable when I'm there. He makes going to the dentist an enjoyable experience. You're making the right choice with Dr T.

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We Accept Insurance And Offer Financing

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​If you notice the warning signs of a root canal infection like swelling or pain, visit our Aurora dentist immediately for the dental help you need. Faster treatment not only relieves pain, but can also mean less involved — and more affordable — care. 

Our team is transparent with all prices and can provide an accurate estimate at your consultation, so you don't have to stress about the financials on top of your infection.

Root canals are typically covered by dental insurance, but we also accept flexible financing plans through CareCredit® for out-of-pocket costs or for patients without coverage.

The Cost Factors Of a Root Canal

The cost of a root canal depends on several factors, such as:

Number of Tooth Roots

The price of a root canal is impacted by how many roots are located in the tooth. Some teeth have one root, while the teeth in the furthest back of your mouth (maxillary molars) have three roots.

Tooth Location

A root canal on the maxillary molars may cost more because there is more pulp to remove. It can also require a longer amount of time to complete the treatment.

Additional Procedures

Needing a dental crown will also affect the overall cost of a root canal. In cases needing an extraction, a restoration such as a crown supported by an implant will mean added costs.

Great Care, Great Results Hear What Our Patients Think

1

Long Nguy

2022

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Been coming here for years. The staff is professional and care about their patients’ oral health. I personally would highly recommend this dental office. Big thanks to everyone at Pioneer Hills Dental, I greatly appreciate you all!!!

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1

Kaycee Tormoen

2022

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I love Pioneer Hills! I’ve been coming here for years. Even though we moved quite a distance away, I still come here because I always feel taken care of. Highly recommend!

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Time Is of the Essence When It Comes to Root Canal Therapy

illustration showing bacteria on teeth
The bacteria that cause root canal infections can act quickly, spreading from the infected tooth pulp to the gums and bloodstream. They may even cause heart disease. If you noticed signs of a root canal infection like swelling, cracked teeth, or difficulty chewing, visit a dentist immediately for the endodontic care you need.

How Can I Prevent Root Canal Infections And Cavities?

The easiest — and most affordable —  root canal treatment is preventative care. You can avoid having to visit a dentist or endodontist by keeping your tooth and pulp healthy with these tried and true techniques:

Brushing your teeth twice a day

Flossing daily

Getting a mouth guard if you grind your teeth

Visiting Pioneer Hills Dental for cleanings

Pioneer Hills Dental

Pioneer Hills Dental is a comprehensive practice where patients of all ages can receive advanced dentistry in a state-of-the-art setting. Our dentist, Dr. Terrance Wolbaum, is an active member of many prestigious dental organizations, including: 

  • American Dental Association
  • Colorado Dental Association
  • International Congress of Oral Implantologists
  • Metropolitan Denver Dental Society
  • New Dentist Committee
  • Misch Fellowship
  • Dawson Academy

To make dentistry more affordable for families, Dr. Wolbaum proudly accepts most dental insurance plans and financing through CareCredit®. To book your appointment, request a consultation online or call our practice at (303) 766-8811.

Contact Us Today

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