A root canal is a dental procedure performed to save a severely decayed or infected tooth by removing the infected pulp from the tooth's root canal system. When a tooth becomes severely decayed, infected, or injured, bacteria can enter the pulp chamber and cause an infection or inflammation. This can result in severe pain, sensitivity to temperature, swelling, and even the formation of an abscess. If left untreated, the infection can spread to surrounding tissues and lead to serious oral health problems. 

A root canal treatment removes the infected or damaged pulp, clean and disinfect the root canal system, and then fill and seal the space to prevent further infection. Root canal treatment is performed to relieve pain and save the affected tooth, avoiding the need for extraction. Visit Burien Family Dental Care for the best dental care. 

What Are the Signs That Root Canal Therapy Is Needed? 

• Persistent or intense pain in the affected tooth is often a primary symptom of infected or inflamed dental pulp. The pain may worsen when biting down or applying pressure to the tooth. 

• Increased sensitivity to hot or cold substances, such as beverages or food, can indicate a problem with the dental pulp. The sensitivity may linger even after the stimulus is removed. 
• Inflammation and infection in the dental pulp can spread to the surrounding gum tissues, leading to swelling, redness, and tenderness. 
• The affected tooth may appear darker or discolored compared to the surrounding teeth. This discoloration is often a result of changes in the dental pulp due to infection or trauma. 

The Root Canal Procedure 

Our dentist first examines the tooth and takes X-rays to determine the extent of the infection or damage. Local anesthesia is then administered to ensure patient comfort throughout the procedure.

Next, an opening is created in the tooth's crown to access the pulp chamber and root canals. This is typically done using dental drills or specialized instruments. Our dentist then carefully removes the infected or damaged pulp from the root canal system using small files and irrigation solutions. Then, the canals are shaped and cleaned to remove any remaining debris or bacteria.

Once thoroughly cleaned, the canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. After the root canal treatment, a dental crown may be recommended to provide additional strength and protection to the treated tooth. 

Root canals are a valuable procedure that can save a natural tooth from extraction, relieve pain, and restore oral health and functionality. If you have a severely decayed or infected tooth, visit Burien Family Dental Care at 112 SW 160th Burien, WA 98166, or call (206) 244-6774 to determine if a root canal treatment is necessary.