Root Canal Treatment Denver & Lakewood

Root Canal Treatment in Denver & Lakewood

A root canal treats infection or inflammation inside a tooth. By removing the damaged tissue, cleaning the canals and sealing the tooth, treatment can often relieve pain and preserve a natural tooth that might otherwise need extraction.

Open 7 DaysNew Patients WelcomeMedicaid AcceptedSe Habla Español

When a Tooth May Need Root Canal Treatment

Symptoms do not always reveal the full condition of a tooth. An examination and dental X-rays help determine whether the pulp is inflamed or infected and whether the tooth can be restored.

Persistent Tooth Pain

Deep, lingering or spontaneous pain—especially pain that interrupts sleep—can signal inflammation inside the tooth.

Hot or Cold Sensitivity

Sensitivity that continues after the temperature is gone may mean the tooth nerve is irritated or damaged.

Swelling or a Gum Bump

Swelling, tenderness or a pimple-like bump near a tooth can be a sign that infection is draining through the gum.

Pain When Biting

A tooth that hurts with chewing or pressure may have inflammation around its root, a crack or another problem that needs evaluation.

Darkening or Trauma

A tooth that changes color after an injury may have lost blood supply even when it is not currently painful.

Deep Decay or a Crack

Decay, repeated dental work or a fracture can allow bacteria to reach the pulp at the center of the tooth.

What Happens During a Root Canal?

The tooth is numbed with local anesthetic. The dentist makes a small opening, removes inflamed or infected pulp, cleans and shapes the canals, then fills and seals the space. A temporary or permanent filling closes the tooth. Many back teeth need a crown afterward because they have lost substantial structure and face heavy chewing forces. The exact restoration depends on how much healthy tooth remains.

Your Visit at Star Dental

We begin with a diagnosis, explain the options and help you understand the next step. Treatment is based on your examination, health history and individual needs.

STEP 1

Examination

We review symptoms, test the tooth and take X-rays when needed.

STEP 2

Diagnosis

The dentist explains whether root canal treatment, another restoration or extraction is appropriate.

STEP 3

Treatment

The infected or inflamed tissue is removed and the canals are disinfected and sealed.

STEP 4

Restore & Protect

The tooth receives a filling or crown based on its condition, followed by routine monitoring.

Do not wait on facial swelling or fever

Call promptly for increasing swelling, fever, a bad taste or difficulty opening your mouth. If swelling affects breathing, swallowing, the eye or the airway, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Open 7 Days for Denver and Lakewood Patients

Star Dental welcomes new patients, accepts Health First Colorado Medicaid and most PPO plans—including many Delta, Cigna, Aetna, MetLife and Guardian plans—and has Spanish-speaking staff available every day. Benefits and coverage are confirmed for each patient. Same-day appointments may be available; call for availability.

Convenient Sheridan & Florida location

Find us at 1490 S Sheridan Blvd in the King Soopers plaza, with free onsite parking and wheelchair accessibility. New patients should arrive 10–15 minutes early with photo ID and insurance information.

Root Canal Treatment: Frequently Asked Questions

Does a root canal hurt?

Modern root canal treatment is performed with local anesthetic. Most patients describe pressure rather than sharp pain during treatment. Tenderness afterward is possible and usually improves as the area heals.

Is it better to have a root canal or pull the tooth?

When a tooth is restorable, keeping it can preserve chewing function and reduce the need to replace a missing tooth. If the tooth is severely fractured, lacks enough support or cannot be predictably restored, extraction may be recommended.

How long does root canal treatment take?

The number and length of visits vary with the tooth, number of canals, infection and complexity. The dentist can give a more specific estimate after examination and X-rays.

Do I need a crown after a root canal?

Many molars and premolars benefit from a crown because they carry heavy chewing forces. Some front teeth may be restored differently. The recommendation depends on remaining tooth structure.

Can antibiotics cure an infected tooth?

Antibiotics may help when infection is spreading or there are systemic symptoms, but they do not remove infected tissue inside the tooth. Definitive dental treatment is usually still necessary.

Does Medicaid cover root canals?

Health First Colorado Medicaid may cover medically necessary root canal treatment when program requirements are met. Coverage depends on the tooth, diagnosis, eligibility and current benefits; our team will verify coverage.

What happens if I delay treatment?

Inflammation may progress to infection, abscess, bone loss or swelling. A tooth that could have been saved may eventually become nonrestorable.

Can I return to work after a root canal?

Many people return to routine activities the same day, although the mouth may remain numb for several hours. Follow the dentist’s instructions and avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it is protected.