Root Canal
We are proud to offer advanced root canal treatment to relieve pain, eliminate infection, and preserve your natural teeth. Our experienced dental team uses modern techniques and technology to perform root canal procedures as comfortably and efficiently as possible. By removing infected tissue and sealing the tooth, we help restore oral health while preventing the need for extraction.
Schedule Now What Is a Root Canal?
Nobody wants to hear that they need a root canal. But if you think root canal treatments are all pain and no gain, here’s some good news: modern root canal therapy is nothing like its reputation.
In fact, it's one of the most effective ways to relieve tooth pain!
A root canal removes infected or inflamed pulp from inside your tooth and disinfects the canal system. A dental specialist removes the decay and seals the area to preserve your natural tooth structure. Think of it as saving a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted.
Here at Northern Colorado Dental Specialty and Implant Center, our prosthodontic specialists are experts in root canals and other forms of preventative and restorative dentistry. We bring precision and expertise to every root canal, so you stay comfortable while you protect your smile for years to come.
Schedule an Appointment Now
Your healthiest smile starts with regular cleanings and personalized care. Whether it’s your first visit or a routine appointment, our friendly dental team is here to make your experience comfortable and stress-free.
Schedule NowOur Specialty Dentists
Justin Liddle, DMD, CDT, Prosthodontist
Dr. Liddle is a distinguished prosthodontist who earned his doctorate from Case Western Reserve University and completed a three-year Prosthodontic Residency at Louisiana State University Health Science Center. Internationally trained in dental esthetics and implant dentistry, he was awarded 1st Place in the Nobel Biocare Student Case Presentation Award. As one of the few prosthodontists serving Northern Colorado, Wyoming, and Nebraska, Dr. Liddle is also a respected educator, leading advanced courses on implant dentistry techniques.
Kirk Harvey, DMD
Dr. Kirk Harvey earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine in Arizona, where he was honored with the prestigious Hanau Excellence in Prosthodontics Award for his outstanding clinical skills.
Real Results, Real Smiles
Our Patients Say It Best
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Are you in need of a root canal? While most people only find out they need a root canal after seeing their dentist, some body signals can indicate a root issue.
Here are the most common signs to watch for:
- Severe toothache: You feel a persistent pain when chewing or biting that doesn't go away over time
- Lingering sensitivity: You feel discomfort after exposure to hot or cold long after you’re done drinking or eating
- Swollen or tender gums: Your gums feel puffy or tender, or there’s a small, pimple-like bump near the affected tooth
- Tooth discoloration: You see a visible darkening of the tooth, potentially indicating damage to the internal tissue
- Chipped or cracked tooth: Your tooth has damage that exposes the inner pulp to bacteria
- Deep decay: You have cavities that have progressed beyond the enamel into the tooth's core
When a tooth root issue involves gum disease or infection, you may require additional treatment before a root canal procedure.
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, don't wait!
Early treatment can often mean a much simpler procedure and a better outcome. Schedule a consultation with our team to get a clear diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
Why save a tooth when you could just have it pulled? While it may be tempting to get rid of a painful tooth, there are actually some benefits to treating and restoring your tooth – both in the short and long term!
You’ll See Quick Pain Relief
Remember, it’s not the tooth itself that hurts. The infected pulp inside your tooth is causing your discomfort. Once the infected pulp is treated and removed, the pain typically goes away. Most patients feel significantly better within days of their procedure.
You Can Preserve Your Natural Tooth
Even with advanced dental implants and bridges, nothing functions quite like your natural tooth. Professional root canal therapy helps you preserve your original tooth structure, resulting in better chewing, normal bite force, and a natural appearance. Plus, keeping your tooth helps maintain proper spacing and prevents other teeth from shifting!
You Can Protect Your Jawbone
When you lose a tooth, the surrounding bone begins to deteriorate. If you can save your natural tooth with a root canal, you can help prevent that deterioration and preserve your jaw’s natural strength and structure.
Root Canals Have High Success Rates
Did you know that root canals have become incredibly effective? Recent studies show root canal therapy succeeds in 86–95% of cases. Plus, properly restored teeth last for decades. It's a proven, reliable solution!
What to Expect During Your Root Canal
Are you worried about the root canal procedure? Here's what actually happens (and why it's far more comfortable than you might expect!)
Step 1: Diagnosis and Preparation
Every root canal treatment at our Fort Collins office starts with a thorough examination. Our team will take detailed X-rays to best assess the extent of the infection. We’ll then use that data to plan your treatment.
Once we've confirmed the diagnosis, and you decide that a root canal is right for you, it’s time to treat your tooth! Your specialist will numb the area completely to help with any pain and comfort.
Still unsure? We also offer sedation options for patients who feel anxious about dental procedures!
Step 2: Accessing and Cleaning the Canal
With the area numbed, it’s time to remove the infected pulp once and for all. We’ll create a small opening in the tooth to reach the pulp chamber. Then, using specialized instruments, we carefully remove the infected tissue. Once fully removed, we clean the canal system thoroughly with antimicrobial solutions to help eliminate any remaining bacteria.
Step 3: Sealing and Restoration
Once the canals are clean and shaped, it’s time for tooth restoration. Your tooth’s canal and opening will be filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha to seal the tooth. In most cases, we'll place a temporary restoration and schedule you for a permanent crown.
Plus, thanks to our on-site dental laboratory, we can create your custom crown quickly and make any adjustments right here in our office. That means no waiting weeks for outside labs!
Step 4: Recovery and Follow-Up
Recovery and follow-up are a key part of any dental treatment. Most patients return to normal activities the same day.
You may experience some mild soreness, which is common and typically managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. To make sure everything is healing (and place your permanent crown), we'll see you for a follow-up visit.
The entire procedure typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. Multi-canal teeth or more complex cases may require an additional visit.
Why Choose Us?
If you need root canal therapy, you want to know that you are being cared for by specialists who understand the complexity of tooth restoration.
Dr. Justin Liddle is one of the only prosthodontists in Northern Colorado, Wyoming, and Nebraska. His three additional years of specialized training beyond dental school means you receive expert-level care for even the most challenging cases.
Plus, our on-site dental laboratory speeds up the entire process. When your root canal requires a crown, we can fabricate it right on site, ensuring a perfect fit and finish without the delays of outside labs.
This is modern dentistry done right. From your first phone call to your final follow-up, you'll notice the difference.
Want to see the results for yourself? Check out our patient before and after gallery to see the transformations we've achieved for patients just like you.
How Can We Help?
Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you're exploring treatment options like dentures or dental implants, looking to brighten your smile, or curious about the latest technology in dental care, this FAQ section is here to help. Learn why choosing a prosthodontist—an expert in the restoration and replacement of teeth—can make a difference in your treatment experience and results. Dive into answers about procedures, benefits, and innovations that can guide you toward a healthier, more confident smile.
More FAQsTake the First Step Toward Relief Today!
You don’t have to let tooth pain control your life. Root canal therapy works to help relieve your discomfort and save your natural smile – and often in one or two simple appointments.
Want to learn more or schedule a consultation? Meet our caring team and discover why patients throughout Northern Colorado trust us with their dental health.
Schedule NowCall (970) 825-0000 today to schedule your consultation. Relief is closer than you think!