Have a Tooth Ache?
If you are experiencing a toothache, it should not be ignored or taken lightly. Tooth pain may be a sign of an infection that is affecting the inside of your tooth and nerves which may require a root canal procedure. If infection is left untreated, it may spread to other teeth or parts of the body. To help protect your oral health and smile from these devastating side-effects, we offer modern, minimally invasive root canal therapy, including utilization of laser therapy. Contrary to popular belief, the goal of root canal treatment is to relieve tooth pain, not cause it.
Americans will receive a root canal each year!
What is a Root Canal?
As defined by the American Academy of Endodontists, a root canal treatment is a dental procedure to remove inflamed or infected pulp on the inside of the tooth which is then carefully cleaned and disinfected, then filled and sealed.
Since patients are given local anesthesia, a root canal isn’t more painful than a regular dental procedure, such as a filling or a tooth extraction. However, a root canal is generally a bit sore or numb after the procedure, and can even cause mild discomfort for a few days.
Root canals are often needed due to toothaches caused by cavities, cracks, or past trauma, but sometimes teeth can die without symptoms. That’s why we use advanced detection technology, including 3-dimensional imaging every 3-5 years, to catch issues early and prevent serious damage.
Signs You May Need A Root Canal
- Localized hot or cold sensitivity to food, liquids or air
- Pain or pressure with biting
- Localized throbbing or swelling
- A large cavity or broken tooth
How Does It Work?
Step One
Inside your tooth, beneath the hard white enamel, lies a soft tissue called pulp. This tissue contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue, which help develop the root of the tooth. Once fully grown, a tooth can survive without its pulp, as the surrounding tissues continue to provide nourishment.
Step Two
During a root canal procedure, the inflamed or infected pulp is removed, and the interior of the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. We then place a medication inside the tooth for a few weeks to promote healing.
Step Three
At your follow-up visit, we fill and seal the tooth with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Finally, the tooth is restored with either a crown or filling for added protection, allowing it to function like any other tooth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a root canal, and why do I need one?
A root canal is a dental procedure that removes infected or inflamed pulp from inside a tooth to relieve pain and prevent further infection. It’s often needed when deep decay, cracks, or trauma damage the tooth’s nerve. This treatment saves the natural tooth and helps avoid extraction.
Does a root canal hurt?
With modern techniques and local anesthesia, a root canal is typically no more uncomfortable than a routine filling. The procedure is designed to eliminate pain, not cause it. Some mild soreness afterward is normal but usually fades within a few days.
What are the signs that I might need a root canal?
Common signs include persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, and discomfort when chewing. Other symptoms like gum swelling, tenderness, or a darkened tooth can indicate infection. If these issues arise, scheduling a dental evaluation is recommended.
How long does a root canal take?
Most root canals are completed in one or two visits, with each session lasting 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the tooth’s condition.
Have More Questions?
Client Reviews
"We’d just moved to Billings for 2 months from Texas, and this dentist office is a God sent. EVERYONE is very warm and friendly. Jessica, the front desk lady who probably does everything is very helpful and welcoming; my hygienist, Kori, and Dr. Francis are just awesome! I like how they took real pictures of my teeth and doctor showed me the pictures and explained to me what’s going on with my gum and teeth in a way that I can understand. I’ve had several different dentists’ experiences in the last 40 years, they usually only showed me x-ray slides or images taken from their fancy new machine that all I could see were shadows of my teeth. Kori was very thorough and Dr. Francis was very clear in his explanations. Totally love this office’s excellent service!"
-Teresa L.
Today was my first visit to see Dr. Francis and to also have my teeth cleaned by the dental hygienist. First, let me say that the dental hygienist had to have done the best job I’ve ever had done. Not only was she very friendly, but she explained everything as she did it, it was the most thorough cleaning I’ve ever had done. The icing on the cake was meeting Dr. Francis. He was extremely friendly. He explained the exam gave me all my options. All of the staff that I met were very friendly. The office was very clean. I highly recommend their office.
-Kerisue D.
Undoubtedly the best dentist office I have used. I see Dr. Ferguson and her assistants. What a great group. They go out of their way to make sure you’re comfortable and genuinely seem to care. They explain your dental care and give good advice.
-Dan B.
Wow! What Service. My own dentist of many years was not able to get me in for emergency service and didn't seem to really care. Dr. Francis got me into his office within the hour of my emergency and patched me up until I could get the permanent fix. His office staff was amazing and needless to say - they cared. This office will be getting all of my future dental business for myself and family. Thank you!
-Reed G.
I was so impressed with the personalized care that I experienced at my recent visit. Bringing a child into the dentist for the first time is always a stressful situation, but Dr. Francis and his staff took the time to provide quality care while demonstrating compassion. Highly recommend!
-Stephanie M.
"I was treated with respect and felt as if my concerns were address with compassion . I really appreciated the time that was taken to explain what my options were. I will recommend Dr. Francis practice to anyone in need of dental care. Everyone in the office was easy to talk to. A big thank you!"
-Lori C.
Dr. Ferguson and her assistant are amazing! They take the time to deal with your needs and let you know exactly what is going on with your teeth. Best experience ever.
-Kym P.
My experience with Dr.Ferguson and her staff was phenomenal! From thorough oral cancer screening to personalized education, my experience was unique to any dentist I've been to in the past. I would recommend her and her team to anyone seeking above average dental care.
-Charis T.
Both Doctors Ferguson and Francis’ practice is first-rate. They are thorough and make the visit pleasant as possible. Great team of folks providing superior service. 👍👍👍👍