If you’ve been told you need a root canal, you’re probably feeling a mix of confusion, dread, and maybe even straight-up panic. But take a deep breath—because at Trail Ridge Dental, root canals are not what they used to be. With advanced techniques, modern dental technology, and a gentle approach from Dr. Sean Visger and the dental team, your appointment will be more comfortable (and way less dramatic) than you imagine.
Whether you’re visiting our Johnstown or Longmont location, we’re here to walk you through exactly what happens before, during, and after your root canal so you feel informed, supported, and surprisingly at ease. We proudly serve patients from Loveland, Berthoud, Mead, Firestone, and beyond.
Call our Johnstown dentist’s office at 970-593-1010 or our Longmont location at 303-772-6960 to schedule your appointment, and let us help you feel prepared and confident.
Why You Might Need a Root Canal
Before we dive into what to expect, let’s clear up what a root canal actually is—and why you might need one.
Inside every tooth is a soft tissue called pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. If that pulp becomes infected or inflamed—thanks to deep decay, trauma, or a cracked tooth—it can lead to intense pain, swelling, and even tooth loss. That’s where a root canal comes in.
The goal of a root canal is simple: remove the infected pulp, clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth, then seal it to protect your smile. The result? You keep your natural tooth, eliminate the pain, and avoid needing an extraction.
How to Prepare for Your Root Canal Appointment
When you schedule your root canal procedure at Trail Ridge Dental, we’ll make sure you know exactly how to prepare ahead of time. In most cases, there’s not much you need to do—but knowing what to expect can help you walk in feeling ready.
Here’s what we typically recommend:
- Eat a light meal beforehand (unless sedation is planned).
- Take any prescribed medications as directed.
- Get a good night’s sleep the night before your procedure.
- Plan for someone to drive you home if sedation is involved.
Still nervous? That’s completely normal. Our team will answer any questions and walk you through each step of the process. You’re not doing this alone.
Your Arrival and Initial Exam
When you arrive for your root canal, we’ll start with a warm welcome and a check-in with our team. Dr. Sean Visger will review your X-rays, assess the tooth, and ensure a root canal is the right treatment. This is also your time to ask questions, share any concerns, and get to know what’s ahead.
You’ll be made comfortable in one of our modern treatment rooms, and we’ll go over anesthesia options to make sure your procedure is pain-free. If you’re anxious, ask about sedation options—we’re here to accommodate your needs.
Have questions or ready to book? Reach out to our Johnstown team at 970-593-1010 or our Longmont office at 303-772-6960. We’re here to support your recovery and comfort.
Numbing the Area: No Pain, Just Pressure
One of the biggest myths about root canals is that they’re painful. Spoiler alert: they’re not. The procedure itself is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling, thanks to modern numbing techniques.
We’ll apply a local anesthetic to completely numb the area around your tooth. You’ll stay awake but won’t feel any pain—just some pressure and movement.
Once the area is fully numb, our dental offices in Longmont and Johnstown will get to work. You’ll be surprised how fast the process actually moves from here.
Step-by-Step: What Happens During the Procedure
Now let’s break it down. The root canal process itself is precise, sterile, and carefully executed to ensure your comfort and long-term oral health.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Accessing the tooth: A small opening is made in the top of the tooth to reach the infected pulp inside.
- Removing the pulp: The damaged or infected tissue is removed from inside the tooth and root canals.
- Cleaning and shaping: The canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected using specialized tools.
- Sealing the space: Once clean, the canals are filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to prevent future infection.
- Temporary filling: A temporary filling is placed to protect your tooth until a permanent restoration is completed.
The entire procedure usually takes about 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the tooth and level of infection.
Experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity? Don’t wait for it to get worse. Call Trail Ridge Dental in Johnstown at 970-593-1010 or Longmont at 303-772-6960 to schedule a gentle, effective root canal consultation today.
Root Canal Aftercare: What You’ll Feel and What to Do Next
Once your root canal is complete, we’ll go over aftercare instructions to help you heal quickly and comfortably. Most patients can return to work or school the next day with minimal discomfort.
You may experience:
- Mild soreness or sensitivity, especially when chewing
- Temporary swelling or tenderness around the treated tooth
- Slight fatigue from the procedure or sedation
Here’s how to care for your smile post-treatment:
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed
- Avoid hard or chewy foods for a few days
- Brush and floss gently around the treated area
If a dental crown is recommended, we’ll schedule a follow-up to place a custom restoration. This will protect your tooth long-term and restore your natural bite.
Why Root Canals Save Teeth—And Money
Some patients wonder why they shouldn’t just pull the tooth and move on. We get it—root canals can sound intimidating. But preserving your natural tooth is almost always the better option.
Here’s why:
- Your natural tooth helps maintain proper chewing and jaw alignment
- No need for replacement treatments like bridges or implants
- It prevents the shifting of nearby teeth and future dental complications
Plus, when caught early, a root canal can save you time and money compared to waiting for a more serious issue to develop.
What Sets Trail Ridge Dental Apart
At Trail Ridge Dental, we don’t believe in cookie-cutter care. Every root canal we perform is done with your comfort, needs, and long-term dental health in mind. Dr. Visger takes a personalized approach to each patient, using state-of-the-art tools and a compassionate touch.
Patients across Johnstown, Longmont, Firestone, and Milliken trust us because we:
- Prioritize clear communication at every step
- Use advanced imaging for precise diagnosis and treatment
- Offer sedation options to reduce anxiety
- Provide consistent follow-up care and support
Still unsure if a root canal is the right move? Let’s talk it through. Reach out to our Johnstown office at 970-593-1010 or connect with our Longmont team at 303-772-6960 to get answers from a team that cares.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, not at all. The area around the tooth is completely numbed, and you won’t feel pain during the root canal procedure—just pressure. Afterward, you might feel mild soreness, but this is easily managed with OTC pain relievers.
Most root canal procedures at Trail Ridge Dental take between one and one-and-a-half hours. Molars may take a bit longer due to their more complex roots. You’ll know your expected timeline before the procedure begins.
In many cases, yes. A crown strengthens and protects the tooth after the root canal and helps prevent cracks or breaks. We’ll schedule your crown appointment once your tooth has healed.
While rare, a root canal can fail if bacteria re-enter the tooth. That’s why sealing the canals and placing a crown are essential. With proper care, your treated tooth can last a lifetime.
Start Your Root Canal Journey With Confidence
Whether you’re visiting us in Johnstown, Longmont, or nearby areas like Frederick or Erie, Trail Ridge Dental is here to make your root canal experience calm, clear, and comfortable. There’s no need to fear your appointment—we’ll walk you through it with kindness and skill.
Call our Johnstown location at 970-593-1010 or our Longmont location at 303-772-6960 to schedule your consultation with the best dental team near you. Let’s restore your smile—and your peace of mind—together.