Root Canals

If you've ever experienced tooth pain or an infected tooth, then root canal therapy may be for you. Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure that focuses on saving a severely damaged or infected tooth. It involves removing the infected pulp from inside the tooth and cleaning out the root canals and then sealing them closed to prevent future infections.

The goal of root canal therapy is not only to alleviate pain but also to save your natural teeth from extraction. By preserving your original teeth through this intervention rather than opting for extraction, you maintain proper chewing function while preventing potential issues like shifting teeth or jawbone deterioration.

What to Expect During Root Canal Therapy

During root canal therapy, there are several steps you can expect to go through. First, our dentist will thoroughly examine your tooth and take X-rays to assess the extent of the damage or infection. Then, a local anesthetic will be administered to numb the area around the affected tooth. Once you're fully numb and comfortable, our dentist will create a small access hole in your tooth using specialized instruments. This allows them to remove any decayed or infected pulp from within the tooth's roots. The next step involves removing the infected pulp, followed by cleaning and shaping the canals using tiny files. 

Afterward, the canals are disinfected with antibacterial solutions to eliminate any remaining bacteria. In some cases, our dentist may opt for temporary medication before sealing off the canals with a filling material called gutta-percha. In most cases, you'll need a dental crown after root canal therapy to protect and strengthen the treated tooth. Our dentist will take impressions of your teeth so that a custom-made crown can be fabricated in a dental laboratory.  

Throughout each step of root canal therapy, it's important to communicate openly with our dentist if you experience any discomfort or have questions about what is happening during the procedure. Remember that every case is unique and treatment plans may vary slightly depending on individual circumstances.

Benefits of Root Canal Therapy

One major benefit is that it can relieve pain. If you are experiencing a severe toothache or sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, a root canal can provide much-needed relief. By removing infected pulp from within the tooth and eliminating nerve irritation, this treatment eliminates discomfort and allows you to eat and drink without any pain or discomfort.  

By opting for root canal therapy instead of extracting the tooth completely, you are preserving your natural smile. Losing a tooth can have significant consequences for your appearance as well as your ability to chew properly. But with root canal therapy, you get to keep your original teeth intact while ensuring their functionality. 

Furthermore, saving an infected tooth through root canal therapy helps maintain proper alignment in your mouth. When a tooth is extracted and not replaced with an implant or bridge promptly, nearby teeth tend to shift out of position over time. This misalignment could lead to further dental issues down the line.  

Another advantage of choosing root canal therapy is its long-term success rate. With advancements in modern dentistry techniques and technology combined with skilled professionals performing the procedure accurately, this treatment has proven to be highly effective in treating infections successfully. 

Lastly, another benefit worth mentioning is cost-effectiveness. While some people might assume that extraction is cheaper than undergoing a root canal procedure initially, it's essential to consider the long-term implications of leaving gaps in your mouth, which will eventually require replacement procedures such as implants or bridges. And these options often come with higher costs compared to saving the natural tooth through root canal therapy.

Is Root Canal Therapy Painful?

One of the most common concerns people have when it comes to root canal therapy is whether or not it will be painful. It's understandable that this procedure might seem daunting, given its association with pain in popular culture. However, the reality is quite different. Thanks to advancements in dental technology and anesthesia techniques, root canal therapy is now a relatively painless procedure. Before starting the treatment, our dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth being worked on. This ensures that you won't feel any discomfort during the procedure.

If you're still apprehensive about undergoing root canal therapy due to fear of pain, don't hesitate to discuss your concerns with our dentist beforehand. We can provide reassurance and address any questions you may have about the process. Remember that prioritizing oral health through necessary treatments like root canal therapy ultimately leads to improved well-being and quality of life!

With modern techniques and experienced professionals at hand, root canal therapy can bring relief from pain while saving your natural tooth in an efficient manner. To learn more, call us at (425) 251-6044 or visit our office, Advanced Care Dental, at 16600 W Valley Hwy, Tukwila, WA 98188. We will be happy to guide you further.