Root Canal Tumwater, WA
At Deschutes River Dentistry, we believe in helping our patients keep their natural teeth whenever possible. Restorative dentistry focuses on saving and strengthening existing teeth using various proven techniques. The specific approach we choose depends on where the damage is located and how extensive it may be. One highly successful procedure our experienced team regularly performs is the root canal.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a treatment that involves carefully removing the pulp from inside your tooth. Think of the pulp as the soft, living tissue at the center of your tooth, tucked safely beneath the hard outer enamel layer. This pulp contains important blood vessels and nerves that help nourish your tooth and keep it healthy.
When you need a root canal, our skilled professionals will begin by ensuring your comfort with a local anesthetic. Once the area is numb, we create a small access hole in the affected tooth, allowing us to reach the pulp chamber. We then gently remove the infected or damaged pulp, which eliminates the source of your discomfort. The canal is carefully widened to make thorough cleaning and filling easier. Next, our team meticulously flushes the tooth to ensure every bit of pulp is removed. After completely drying the area, we apply a specialized antibacterial solution to eliminate any lingering infection. Finally, we place a protective filling to seal the tooth roots and prevent future problems.
When Are Root Canals Needed?
Root canals become necessary when an infection reaches your tooth’s pulp. Once bacteria penetrate this deep into your tooth, a root canal is the only way to eliminate the infection while saving your natural tooth. Without prompt treatment, the infection will continue spreading to the roots, eventually requiring complete tooth removal.
The good news is that a fully developed tooth can thrive without its pulp, as it receives adequate nourishment from the surrounding gum tissue. This means your treated tooth can function normally for many years to come.
What Happens After a Root Canal?
Following your root canal, you’ll receive a custom crown to protect and strengthen your treated tooth. This durable restoration completely covers your tooth, providing long-lasting protection. Crowns can be crafted from various materials, including natural-looking porcelain or durable gold, depending on your preferences.
Whenever possible, our team will prepare your crown in advance. This allows us to place it during the same appointment as your root canal. With proper care, your completed root canal and crown can last approximately 10 years or longer.
In emergency situations where immediate treatment is necessary to save your tooth, we may place a temporary filling during your initial visit. You’ll then return in a few weeks for permanent sealing and crown placement. Please note that receiving a crown requires minimal reshaping of your remaining tooth structure to ensure a precise fit.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of an infected tooth, such as swollen gums, persistent pain, or sensitivity, seeking prompt treatment is crucial. Delaying care can make it challenging to save your tooth and may lead to a serious infection requiring antibiotic treatment. Early intervention typically leads to the best outcomes and most comfortable recovery.
To learn more about root canals and our comprehensive restorative services, or to schedule your consultation with our caring team at Deschutes River Dentistry, please call (360) 786-9354.