Root Canal, or endodontics, is the process of removing the nerves from the roots of a tooth.  A root canal is often necessary to save an infected tooth.  If an infected tooth is left alone for a long period of time, an abscess can form.  An abscess will show up on an x-ray as a dark spot below the apex of the root.  This is actually bone loss in the jaw.  It is very important to catch this problem before it deteriorates too far.   Process The first step of the procedure is to anesthetize the effected area.  The next step is to open an access point through the top, or biting surface of the tooth.  The doctor will then determine a working length of each canal.  Each canal is then cleaned and shaped in preparation for the filling material.  Once each canal is prepared, it is filled with an inert material called gutta percha.  The canals are then sealed.  The tooth is now ready for a restoration, which is usually a crown.  This entire procedure is often completed in two visits. Why do I need a root canal? There are a number of reasons why one of your teeth may need a root canal.  These include but are not limited to, a very deep cavity that extends into the nerve, a trauma to the tooth that exposes the nerve, or a crack in the tooth that extends into the nerve of the tooth.   Signs/Symptoms • Moderate to severe lingering toothache pain when drinking hot or cold liquids or foods • Moderate to severe pain when biting on a tooth • Sensitivity to tapping or pressure on the tooth • Toothache that wakes you up in the middle of the night • A pimple on your gum that may release pus or blood • Radiating pain from one area of the mouth to another Prescott Arizona Dentist Root Canal  (Endodontics) 680 Gail Gardner, Prescott, AZ  86305 928.445.9233 © 2011 Dr. Gene Allen DDS Proudly Serving: Prescott, Prescott Valley, Iron Springs, Chino Valley, Dewey We Provide: Tooth Conserving Dentistry, Bonding /White Fillings, Bridges, Crowns, Hygiene/Periodontal Health, Teeth Whitening, Veneers, Dental Implants, Dentures/Partial Dentures, Extractions, Root Canal (Endodontics), Inlays / Onlays, Crown Lengthening, Post Op Instructions      Dentist Gene Allen practices in Prescott, AZ Prescott Arizona Dentist of Prescott, AZ. We make beautiful smiles a reality. Quality dental care provided by dentist Gene Allen and staff at our beautiful AZ office. Providing a wide array of dental procedures including Welcome, Tooth Conserving Dentistry, Bonding/White Fillings, Bridges, Crowns, Hygiene/Periodontal Health, Teeth Whitening, Veneers, Dental Implants, Dentures/Partial Dentures, Extractions, Root Canal (Endodontics), Inlays/Onlays, Crown Lengthening, Post Op Instructions, Cosmetic Dentist, Teeth Whitening, Veneers, Dental Implants, Toothache and many other services. All of this available in our convenient dentist office in Prescott, AZ. Also Proudly Serving: Prescott Valley, Iron Springs, Chino Valley, Dewey   Practice Information Financial / Payment Options Appointments Our Services Office Hours Mon, Tues, Wed 8am-5pm  Thurs 8am-4pm Fri by Appointment Only Site Map