Root Canal Treatment: What You Need to Know

Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure designed to save a tooth that is severely infected or decayed. The treatment involves removing the damaged or infected pulp from the inside of the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and then filling and sealing the space to prevent further infection. This procedure alleviates pain, prevents the spread of infection, and preserves the natural tooth structure, allowing it to function normally. Root canal therapy is essential for maintaining oral health and avoiding the need for tooth extraction.

Common Causes of Root Canal Infections

When tooth decay progresses deep into the tooth, it can reach the pulp chamber where the nerves and blood vessels are located. Bacteria from untreated cavities can then infect the pulp, leading to inflammation and infection.

Physical trauma to the tooth, such as a crack, chip, or fracture, can expose the pulp to bacteria, which can lead to inflammation and infection of the pulp tissue.

Teeth undergoing multiple dental procedures, such as fillings or crowns, may eventually develop inflammation or infection in the pulp. This can occur if the procedures repeatedly irritate the pulp or if there is a deep filling close to the pulp.

A crack in the tooth can extend into the pulp, allowing bacteria to infiltrate and cause infection. Cracks may not always be visible and can sometimes be detected only with special dental instruments.

Improperly placed or ill-fitting dental crowns can cause leakage and allow bacteria to seep into the tooth, leading to pulp infection.

Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) can lead to infection spreading to the roots of teeth, potentially causing root canal infections.

Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to tooth decay or weak tooth structure, which can increase the likelihood of developing root canal infections.

The Root Canal Procedure

The root canal procedure, also known as endodontic therapy, is a vital dental treatment to save a tooth that has become infected or severely decayed. It involves several detailed steps to restore the tooth's health and function.

The procedure begins with a thorough examination and diagnosis by the dentist in Kenmore, WA. X-rays are taken to assess the extent of the infection or decay affecting the tooth. Local anesthesia is then administered to numb the area around the tooth, ensuring patient comfort throughout the procedure.

Next, the dentist creates a small access hole in the affected tooth to reach the pulp chamber and root canals. These channels contain the infected or inflamed pulp tissue that needs to be removed. Specialized instruments are used to carefully extract the diseased pulp, along with any bacteria and debris that may be present. This step is crucial for thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the tooth's interior.

After the canals are cleaned and shaped to prepare them for filling, they are irrigated with antibacterial solutions to remove any remaining debris and disinfect the area thoroughly. Once cleaned, the root canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, which seals the canals to prevent bacteria from re-entering and causing further infection.

Following the root canal filling, the access hole in the tooth is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling material. In many cases, a dental crown may be recommended to provide additional support and strength to the treated tooth, significantly if it has been extensively damaged by decay or previous dental procedures.

Patients are typically advised to schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor the healing process and ensure the tooth functions correctly without any signs of infection. With proper care and maintenance, a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy can continue to function effectively for many years, preserving the natural tooth and avoiding the need for extraction. Contact us today to learn more.

The Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

Pain Relief

One of the primary benefits of root canal treatment in Kenmore, WA, is the alleviation of severe tooth pain caused by infection or inflammation of the tooth pulp. Removing the infected tissue and cleaning the root canals relieves the intense pain that often accompanies tooth decay or dental trauma.

Preservation of Natural Tooth

Root canal therapy aims to save the natural tooth structure rather than resorting to extraction. This preserves the integrity of the dental arch and avoids the potential complications of tooth loss, such as shifting neighboring teeth and bone loss.

Improved Oral Health

Root canal treatment eliminates the source of infection within the tooth, preventing the spread of bacteria to other parts of the mouth and body. This helps maintain oral health and reduces the risk of developing systemic health issues associated with oral infections.

Functional Restoration

Following root canal therapy, the treated tooth can continue functioning generally for biting, chewing, and speaking. This restores full dental function and eliminates the discomfort of chewing on a compromised tooth.

Cosmetic Benefits

Root canal treatment often includes placing a dental crown over the treated tooth. This crown provides additional strength and protection and improves the tooth's appearance by restoring its natural shape and color.

Long-term Durability

With proper care and regular dental check-ups, a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy can last a lifetime. This long-term durability makes root canal treatment more cost-effective than tooth extraction, followed by replacement options like dental implants or bridges.

Prevention of Further Problems

By addressing the infection and sealing the tooth, root canal treatment prevents future complications such as abscess formation, bone loss around the tooth root, and the potential spread of infection to neighboring teeth or gums.

Root canal treatment is a valuable procedure that allows you to retain your natural smile and avoid the complications of tooth loss. Visit our office, Amin Tabatabaian DDS PLLC, at 5701 Northeast Bothell Way Suite 3, Kenmore, WA, 98028, or call (425) 486-9233 to learn more about root canal treatment and determine if it's the right solution for your dental needs.