Root canal therapy — it’s not something anyone wants to have, but if you need this common procedure, that’s actually good news. Really! Endodontic therapy can help rescue a tooth from extraction to help you keep your natural smile intact. Keep reading to learn more about root canals, including when you need one and how they work, from your dentist in Castle Rock.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a restorative procedure in which your dentist removes all tissue from the interior of a damaged or infected tooth and replaces it with a biocompatible material. A crown or filling placed on top restores the tooth’s strength and vitality.
While root canals have developed a reputation as a thing to fear or dread, there is nothing to worry about if you need one — thanks to anesthesia, sedation, and advanced techniques, root canals no longer deserve their bad reputation. In fact, more than half of our patients drift off to sleep during their treatment.
Why Would I Need a Root Canal?
Your dentist will likely recommend a root canal treatment when the interior of the tooth, the area we know as the pulp or “nerve” of the tooth, has been infected or damaged. This is often the case with untreated tooth decay; when a cavity is allowed to worsen without treatment, it may gradually eat away at the tooth until it reaches the interior. At this stage, only a root canal can rescue the tooth.
What Is the Process for a Root Canal?
A root canal is completed under local anesthesia and possibly sedation as needed for additional relaxation. The procedure will only begin once you are completely comfortable — so your dentist or hygienist will ask you a few questions before starting to ensure that you do not feel anything at the treatment site.
First, a small access hole is created in the back side or chewing surface of the teeth. It is through this space that the interior of the tooth is reached. Your dentist will then measure and reshape the root canals, removing all of the infected tissue and bacteria. Then, a rubbery material known as “gutta percha” is sealed in the canal space to help ensure that the interior of the tooth stays clean.
A root canal is usually completed in one visit to the dentist’s office, but sometimes the interior of the tooth cannot be properly cleaned in one visit. If this is the case with yours, a temporary crown or filling may be placed on top of the affected tooth. A brief healing period is scheduled (possibly with a course of antibiotics) and you return to our office one to two weeks later. Then, the root canal treatment is completed and a permanent restoration is placed on top of the treated tooth – possibly at another appointment.
Most root canals (more than 90%) are highly successful in keeping the tooth healthy and sturdy in the gum line for years to come. The important thing is to receive the treatment right away. That’s the best way to rescue your smile!
Meet the Dentist
Dr. L. Blaine Kennington is a general dentist offering high quality, comprehensive dental services from the comfort of the Cowlitz River Dental practice. If you are interested in learning more about root canal therapy, please do not hesitate to get in touch with the office by calling 360-274-9100 today.