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Root canal therapy is an effective way to save damaged teeth

Root canal therapy may not have the best reputation, but it can actually save patients money and additional dental issues when a tooth is compromised by decay or infection. Root canal therapy is a beneficial alternative to tooth extraction, as it can save dying teeth.

While a tooth extraction can ultimately prove costly and lead to significant problems for adjacent teeth, root canal therapy can restore a tooth’s full function. During a root canal, Dr. Musselman will remove the pulp (live tissue inside the tooth), nerves, decay, and bacteria from the affected tooth and replace it with medicated dental material, fully restoring the tooth.

Root canal treatments can have beneficial effects that last a lifetime, though retreatment may be necessary due to new infections.

Ultimately, if a root canal is the best choice for your smile as well as your chosen treatment option, Dr. Musselman will make your appointment as comfortable as possible.

Root canal therapy can treat many dental conditions and symptoms

  • Abscess or pimple on the gum tissue
  • Injury or trauma to the tooth
  • Severe toothache
  • Swelling
  • Tenderness
  • Sensitivity to extreme temperatures

Root canal therapy can treat many dental conditions and symptoms

Both dentists and endodontists, or root canal specialists, are trained to perform the procedure, typically in one visit. After numbing the affected tooth, a sheet of rubber known as a dental dam will be placed around the tooth to keep it dry. An access opening will be made on the top of the tooth, and a series of root canal files will be placed into the opening to remove the pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria. Decay will also be removed, as necessary, with special dental tools.

After the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and prepared, it will be filled with special dental material and sealed with a permanent filling. Sometimes a temporary filling will be used if additional appointments are needed. After the filling is placed to cover the opening on the top of the tooth, a crown, or cap, will be placed on the tooth to protect it from breaking and restore its full function.

After a root canal, the affected tooth may be sensitive for a time, but any pain will decrease as the inflammation caused by the procedure subsides and the tooth has healed.

When you're finished with your procedure, Dr. Musselman gives his patients detailed instructions for hygiene and follow-up visits to ensure the effectiveness and longevity of your root canal treatment.

Questions? Ready for an appointment? We're here to help!

Take a look at what our patients are saying and the beautiful Phoenix smiles we're proud of

They were extremely helpful and even took time out of their day when they weren’t in the office to help me find a dentist for the pain I was feeling in my tooth. Turned out I needed a root canal and the other dentist took me because Dr. Musselman’s office recommended me to them! Extremely caring, polite, and professional. They are awesome!

CJ W, Google Review

Everyone in the office is absolutely amazing! I feel so comfortable. And for the first time in my life, I can honestly say that I love going to the dentist!

Michael L., Facebook Review

Dr. Musselman is an excellent dentist, as are all the others who assist and do the teeth cleaning. Everyone is very friendly and shows concern as to my comfort level. They also assure me I am doing well in coping with the dental procedures. Heidi is a wonderful receptionist. My husband Neil and I appreciate the hot chocolate and coffee and toothbrushes and other things provided.

Beth S., Facebook Review

The staff here is top of the tops! Fantastic attention to detail, always friendly and accommodating, constantly offering the latest in dental and periodontal techniques and services. This is one thing in my life I never have to rethink - I know I've made the best choice!

Heather C., Facebook Review

I always have an amazing experience here. I found them on a whim and chose them because they were so close to me. I’ve been there about a dozen times now and love the staff. I trust them and always feel valued. I kind of don’t want others to know so that I can always get in as quickly as I do. Thanks again!

Bridgette L., Google Review

Everything from the dentist to the hygienist is wonderful, Dr. Musselman takes the time to explain all the work he will be performing and answer any questions besides doing great dental work! I highly recommend him.

Blanca F., Facebook Review

My hygienist today, Valerie, was such a delight to meet and took excellent care of me! I shared with her my recent health changes and she was extra gentle and checked in with me often. Such a lovely lady! Dr. Musselman and the staff are exceptional in service and so kind.

Thank you for taking such good care of me.

Denise H., Google Review

Before visiting Dr. Musselman I had not been to the dentist in years. Dr. Musselman was very through with my exam and built a plan to get my teeth and oral health up to par. The office staff is also amazing Heidi is prompt and helpful and Ruth is God Sent. I can’t rave enough about my visits, so grateful!

Jaclyn A., Google Review

Wonderful and friendly service from the whole staff. Dr. Musselman did a fantastic job matching my front tooth color.

Connie T., Facebook Review

Musselman Dentistry always makes it very easy for my mom to make her appointments. On her last appointment, they were able to do a teeth cleaning and dental procedure on the same visit. This helped us both as my mom no longer drives. The staff is so very friendly and helpful. They answer all of our questions thoroughly and are quite accurate with time estimates.

Candice S., Google Review

My tooth crown fell out. I called the office and they were ready to see me in a couple of hours. I highly recommend Dr. Musselman. The hygienist and staff are great! A great team. Once my blood pressure was high. They called my Dr. and made me comfortable with a warm blanket.

Highly recommend Dr. Musselman. God bless him and his wonderful staff.

Angie M., Facebook Review

I have been going to this office since I was a child (Dr. Frederick Lau, the dentist who started this practice was one of my father's former students). I have continued going to this office, which is now in the fine, skilled hands of Dr. Musselman. He does great work and is a pleasure to work with. The long-time staff at this office are always friendly and helpful, providing excellent, prudent dentistry. From Heidi, the receptionist, to Ruthie, my hygienist, to the assisting staff for dental needs beyond regular cleaning, everyone at this practice provides top-notch care with both treatment and cost well-explained to you so you always know where you stand.

Brett M., Google Review

All of the staff were so friendly and helpful. Made the registration process stress free. Dr. Musselman was very informative about the process. He was very gentle and I loved that he was as openly pleased with his work as I was.

Karen G., Facebook Review

I haven’t been to the dentist in 10 years. The minute I stepped into Musselman Dentistry I felt welcomed, not only by Heidi at the receptionist but by everyone involved. The waiting room exudes a quiet comforting atmosphere. The entire staff is patient and kind and talks you through everything. I am thrilled to have found them and look forward to working with them from here on out. They are a fine establishment with smart, talented, and educated staff. Thank you Musselman Dentistry! I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a new dentist.

Rianna R., Google Review

I loved Dr. Musselman’s Office! I had the same dentist for almost 25 years and had to find a new one due to unfortunate circumstances. I am terrified of the dentist. I 100% do not like the dentist and get anxiety every time I go! Dr. Musselman’s Office was amazing! They were so welcoming when I got there and made sure I felt comfortable. His staff is amazing! I trust that my mouth will be in good hands!!! If you are looking for a new dentist... Come to Dr. Musselman!!!

Christy C., Google Review

Musselman Dentistry is the best! Their front desk staff, dental hygienists, and dentists are friendly, professional, and gentle on your teeth. I’ve been going to them for over 15 years and highly recommend them to everyone. They get a five-star rating from me.

Carol G., Facebook Review

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Monday: 7.30a - 4.30p

Tuesday: 7.30a - 4.30p

Wednesday: 7.30a - 4.30p

Thursday: 7.30a - 4.30p

Friday: Closed

Saturday & Sunday: Closed