Root Canal FAQs

The term “root canal” can be scary and overwhelming, but Pinon Hills Dental wants to ensure you feel comfortable when you hear this term and need to undergo a root canal procedure. Dr. Travis Watson performs root canals in Farmington, NM, and wants to share some FAQs with you.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal, also referred to as endodontic therapy, is the removal of the tooth’s infected pulp. This procedure relieves pain, saves the tooth, and prevents another infection. With the root canal procedure, the infected pulp is removed, the canal is cleaned and filled with a synthetic material, and finally, it is sealed with a filling or crown. 

Why Is a Root Canal Necessary?

When the interior of a tooth becomes inflamed and infected, the pulp needs to be removed. The inflammation and infection often occur due to decay spreading within the tooth, a chip or crack, or several procedures on the same tooth. If the infection is not treated, it can lead to pain and an abscess forming. Without treatment, it is often necessary to have the tooth removed. 

Is a Root Canal Painful?

It is a common myth that root canals in Farmington, NM, are painful. Thanks to advancements in technology, a root canal procedure doesn’t have to be any more uncomfortable or painful than having a standard cavity filled. The area around the tooth is completely numb, ensuring you don’t feel pain—only some pressure—during the procedure. 

What Should You Expect During a Root Canal Procedure?

Once the area is numbed by Dr. Watson, a tiny hole is made at the top of the tooth for access to the pulp. The diseased tissue/pulp is removed, and the canal is disinfected. The canal is then filled with synthetic material and sealed with dental cement. A dental filling or crown is placed to complete the procedure. 

Is There an Alternative to a Root Canal?

There is always the option of having the entire tooth extracted. However, it is recommended to save the tooth through root canal therapy, as this is a routine treatment with a high success rate. Saving the tooth can prevent future issues, including problems eating, teeth shifting, loss of jawbone density and volume, and increased risk of tooth decay. 

Contact Your Farmington, NM, Dentist Today

If you would like more information about root canals in Farmington, NM, or have further questions beyond those addressed in this blog, call Pinon Hills Dental at (505) 325-2859 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Watson. 

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Monday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Saturday:

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Testimonials

  • "I firmly BELIEVE in painless dentistry, and I am happy to say, that the wonderful folks at Pinon Hills Dental also believe in it! I cannot say enough good things about my care there! Dr. Vanden Broeck and her assistant were genuinely concerned about my comfort. I will need more care ahead, and this is my absolute, go to, dental office!"
    Prairie Dog Google Nov2023
  • "Travis Watson was truly the most kind, compassionate, honest, and detail-oriented dentist that I have ever been to. I have had work done by at least a half dozen or more dentists over the years, and Dr. Watson was BY FAR the most compassionate, kind, and caring when it came to my procedure and dental work needs. I couldn't possibly recommend. Dr. Watson and Pinon Hills Dental any higher. Five stars isn't enough. Dr. Watson should get 10 stars. If there was a Nobel Prize for dentistry, Dr. Watson should win it--and many times over. If you're considering a dentist in the Farmington area--or beyond (I came from Durango)--Dr. Watson should be your choice. Beyond belief, you'll actually look forward going to the dentist. I'm forever grateful for Dr. Watson's skill, compassion, and kindness--and you will be too."
    Peter Barr- Google Dec 2020
  • "If you want a dentist who truly cares about his patients, you must see Dr. Watson. He Has the latest technology in-house and it's amazing. For my last crown, Dr. Watson scanned my tooth with a laser and then a machine in the office milled my crown from porcelain to the scan. It was a perfect fit and that tooth hasn't felt so good in years. He was always asking if I needed a break, if I felt any discomfort to let him know immediately and so on. Can't say enough good things about him. Our entire family trusts Pinon Hills Dental with their dental Care!"
    George Joy Google Aug2023
  • "The staff here are very friendly and accommodating. I was in a decent amount of pain so they moved my appointment up and kept me from hurting for an extra 5 days. Dr. Watson personally called me to check on me and make sure things we're ok. It means a lot that he didn't have an assistant or secretary make that call."
    Kev Sharp-GoogleNov2020
  • "Dr. Watson is absolutely incredible in every way! We have always been treated with the utmost respect, compassion and expertise. He has gone out of his way to treat our family in emergency situations. In each instant, he provided amazing and excellent care when other dentists could not. He is always positive and reassuring in all situations! His office staff, dental assistants and hygienists are incredible in every way! The atmosphere in the office is peaceful, positive and upbeat! We highly recommend Pinon Hills!!!"
    Angela McDaniels- GoogleDec2020
  • "The politeness and care of the dentist, dental hygienist and the staff wowed me today. Dr. Watson and Dr. Weber really have a vested interest in your teeth. They are very concerned to the point that I brush and floss so I won't let them down.
    You never feel belittled by anyone in the office and they only encourage you when you need to do a little better. I used to worry about going to the dentist but now I know I have people who want the best for me in the doctors office."
    Kevin Jaramillo