4.9
4.9/5

Do I Need a Root Canal?

At PeakView Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry, patients ask, “my tooth hurts, do I need a root canal?” Toothaches can be terribly inconvenient. They make it difficult to eat, speak, or even function. As a family dentist in Boulder, CO, we realize that a common toothache is something most people can live with until it suddenly turns a corner and becomes unbearable. The key is to visit our dental office at that initial stage before you reach the point of severe discomfort. This will give you the largest amount of options for how to treat the problem.

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Toothache Troubles: Assessing the Need for a Root Canal Procedure

If you are wondering, “my tooth hurts, do I need a root canal?” the answer is – not necessarily. We know that your tooth could hurt for several reasons, including:
In these scenarios, we can treat the problem without needing to perform a root canal. For example, we can clean your teeth and remove any food particles causing discomfort. If you have a cavity, we can remove the decay and place a filling at our family dentist office. This is done quickly and is far less invasive than a root canal. Simultaneously, if your tooth is chipped or cracked, we can restore it using dental bonding or dental veneers. If you are dealing with erosion, you may need dental crowns to protect your teeth. We also restore teeth on a daily basis and have several ways of doing so.

Other Factors You Need to Consider

However, there are many times where a root canal is the right treatment option, so to answer the question, “my tooth hurts, do I need a root canal?” we must also look at the surrounding circumstances.
How long has your tooth been hurting?
When you visit our dental office in Boulder, CO, we need to know how long you have been dealing with this issue and whether the pain came on suddenly or if it has built up over time. This will help us in determining what the source of the discomfort is and what our treatment plan needs to be.

What level of pain are you in?

At PeakView Dentistry we regularly ask patients about their pain and whether or not it is manageable. If it is only slight discomfort, you may be able to visit our Boulder dentist practice and have tooth decay removed. In many cases, a toothache is caused by a cavity that can be treated without the need for a root canal. However, we find that intense pain can often be due to an infection severe enough to warrant a root canal.

When to Call Our Emergency Dentist Office

If you have any of these symptoms, you should call our emergency dentist office at 303-578-5800 and schedule an appointment to be seen right away.
When you visit our dental office in Boulder, CO, we need to know how long you have been dealing with this issue and whether the pain came on suddenly or if it has built up over time. This will help us in determining what the source of the discomfort is and what our treatment plan needs to be.
You are having difficulty swallowing. In this case, you need to be treated by our emergency dentist office immediately. Do not delay or take any chances with this particular symptom. It is possible to develop a dental abscess, an infection that can spread from your root canal to the floor of your mouth and even into your neck. This requires urgent care.
You cannot bite down without pain. In this case, your tooth could be infected and require a standard root canal. If so, we can perform the procedure quickly.
Your tooth is changing color. Another sign of an infection is if the tooth begins to change color. In this case, it may appear gray or dull, and performing a root canal could be necessary for restoring the health of your tooth.

The Process of Performing a Root Canal

When patients call us asking, “my tooth hurts, do I need a root canal?” the second question they normally ask is what the process will be like. At PeakView Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry, we will answer any questions you may have during your examination and consultation. We can complete a root canal in a way that is as comfortable as possible. The reality is that a root canal does not have to hurt. In fact, by using sedation, we can help you feel calm and relaxed to the point that most of our patients say they feel much better after the treatment than they did before the treatment. The root canal removes the infection, which is the cause of the initial discomfort, to relieve the pain. When looking for a “dentist near me” to perform a root canal, be sure to visit one who offers sedation.

Meet Our Doctors

Discover the passion and commitment that drives our dental team

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Dr. Kwiatkowski

Dr. Adam Kwiatkowski, a graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry, has received multiple awards for his outstanding achievements in cosmetic and implant dentistry. He is a recipient of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists’ Pre-doctoral Student Achievement Award and a member of the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society.

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Dr. Hearne

Dr. Hearne, originally from Las Vegas, was inspired to become a dentist at the age of 12 by a close family friend who was a renowned dentist. With a foundation in customer service and excellence from his early career in the hotel industry, Dr. Hearne was further inspired to become a compassionate caregiver for his patients after the passing of his younger brother to cystic fibrosis at the age of 7.

Dr. Olsen

I was born in Ogden, Utah and always knew I wanted to pursue a career in healthcare. After serving an LDS mission in South Africa and getting married, I studied biology at Weber State University and attended the prestigious Creighton University School of Dentistry in Omaha, Nebraska. There, I received multiple awards for clinical excellence before settling down in St. George with my family.

Smile Gallery

Witness the magic of our dental treatments

Google Reviews

Patient-centered dental care that exceeds expectations

Andrea Haines

5/5
June 27, 2024
The nice Dentist and his consultant were very easy to talk to and learn what the possibilities are to improve my smile. Very gentle and I am excited to improve my smile!!

Steve DeHerrera

5/5
June 26, 2024
Peakview Dentistry is a hidden gem in the heart of Boulder. Dr. Adam Kwiatowski and his staff are so professional and nice. I have been to several dentists and this one is hands down the best! I want to thank the team. Everyone in the team was wonderful! All I can add is what a wonderful experience! Great Job everyone!

Kari Stark

5/5
June 13, 2024
I had part 1 of a surgery done prior to moving to Colorado. It left me with major anxiety to have the next step done. Dr. Kwiatowski, Ashley, and… forgive me, but she knows… Cherry have made my experience so comfortable. The surgical assistants were also great and accomodated my nerves well. The clinic is clean, comfortable, and as the name implies, offers a great view. I’m so glad to have found you!!

daren laesch

5/5
June 2, 2024
Dr. K did an excellent job on my implant supported bridge. It was a little bit of a process, but he did an excellent job of fitting and refitting until my teeth were perfect!!!! Highly recommend Peak View!!!!!

Pamela

5/5
May 25, 2024
I am so grateful I found a dentist who provides excellence in every aspect of his practice. I can’t emphasize this enough. Truly impressed.

Dan Aweida

5/5
May 25, 2024
Dr. K and his team are so nice and professional! Highly recommend if you’re looking for a dentist in Boulder.

Janet Frasher

5/5
May 16, 2024
PeakView Dentistry is the best ! Here is where you’ll get the best treatment, caring staff,updated technology, knowledgeable and friendly surgeon & staff ever ! You’ll feel so welcomed and personally taken care of. Get in for a free consultation ! My insurance company wasn’t too helpful (implants).. but Peakview made it possible for me! They will work with you & your insurance company to get the best and affordable payment plan. I’m thrilled I found PeakView ! They are above & beyond what you’ll expect !! Thank you PeakView.

Kian Shir

5/5
May 15, 2024
From the minute I walked in I was greeting with kindness, care, and exceptional treatment. Ellie is an extremely warm and welcoming person, and she made the whole dentist office experience interesting, comfortable, and a lot less stressful than expected. Dr. K and the whole team also deserve the most praise, as they are all diligent, kind, respectful, and educated individuals who truly show care for their patients/clientele. I not only left with exceptional treatment, but newfound friends. Thank you everyone!

Rooting For A Painless Future

Root canals offer many advantages, from relieving pain to preserving teeth. Learn about the benefits of root canal treatment and how it can help you keep your smile healthy.

Rooting For A Painless Future

Root canals offer many advantages, from relieving pain to preserving teeth. Learn about the benefits of root canal treatment and how it can help you keep your smile healthy.

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