Why Root Canal Therapy May Be Necessary:
Root canal treatment, also referred to as root canal therapy or endodontic therapy, is used to save an infected or damaged tooth and avoid having it removed. A root canal becomes necessary when a neglected cavity reaches all the way to the pulp at the center of the tooth, causing the pulp to become infected. Regular cleanings and checkups detect and prevent problems early on.
Trauma can also cause deep damage to the nerve of a tooth. Once this occurs, the pulp becomes infected and begins to eat away at the surrounding bone (this is called an abscess). By the time the pulp is infected it must be treated and cannot heal on its own. It can even weaken the entire immune system, making it very dangerous and painful.
Symptoms of infected pulp may include sensitivity to hot/cold or sweets, pain, swelling, pain with biting or pressure, and a bad taste in the mouth. Sometimes, however, there are no symptoms, and you are unaware of any problem until a checkup.
A root canal is performed to clean out the infected tooth pulp and disinfect the canals of the tooth. The only other treatment would be to extract the tooth. Once the infection is resolved, the canal(s) is filled to prevent any further infection. Crowns are usually recommended to cover and restore a tooth after root canal therapy.
Deep decay or cavity:
When decay reaches the inner pulp of your tooth, it can cause infection and pain.
Cracked or fractured tooth:
Trauma to a tooth can expose the pulp, increasing the risk of infection.
Repeated dental procedures:
Multiple fillings or procedures on the same tooth can weaken it and make it more susceptible to infection.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal:
- Severe toothache or sensitivity
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Swelling or tenderness around the affected tooth
- Darkening of the tooth
- A pimple or bump on the gums near the tooth
The Root Canal Procedure:
Exam and X-rays:
We'll assess the extent of the damage and plan the procedure.
Numbing:
We'll use local anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the treatment.
Accessing the Pulp:
We'll create a small opening in the tooth to access the infected pulp.
Removing the Pulp:
We'll carefully remove the infected pulp and clean the inside of the tooth.
Filling and Sealing:
We'll fill the canals with a biocompatible material and seal the tooth to prevent reinfection.
Restoration:
A crown or filling is typically placed on the tooth to protect and restore its function.
Preserve Your Natural Smile with Root Canal Therapy in Kelso, WA
Our gentle and experienced team is dedicated to providing you with comfortable and effective root canal treatment, allowing you to keep your natural tooth and maintain your beautiful smile.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how root canal therapy can save your tooth.