Root Canal
Milwaukie, OR
When the soft tissues inside the pulp of a tooth become infected or inflamed, they must be removed, making a root canal necessary. If left untreated, infection or inflammation can irritate the nerve, causing severe tooth pain and, in some cases, forming an abscess at the root of the tooth. Pulp infection can occur for several reasons. Poor dental hygiene can allow deep decay to reach the pulp. Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth may also trigger inflammation.
Chips or cracks in the enamel can let bacteria penetrate the tooth, reaching the pulp and causing infection. Injury or trauma to a tooth can damage the root and lead to inflammation from the inside out, even if no decay, chips, or cracks are visible on the surface. Symptoms of pulp infection may include lingering pain when biting or chewing, sensitivity to hot or cold that persists after the stimulus is removed, pimples or swelling on the gums, darkening or deep decay in the tooth, chipped or cracked teeth, and tender or swollen gums. Regular dental exams every six months are essential for preventing and detecting tooth decay early. If you notice any of these symptoms or experience ongoing discomfort, our team at Sue Walker Dentistry can evaluate your risk for infection and determine whether a root canal is necessary. Schedule an appointment today to protect your oral health.
Tooth Anatomy
Understanding root canals is easier when you know the basic structure of a tooth. The outermost layer, the enamel, is the hard, visible part of the tooth that protects it from wear and decay. Beneath the enamel is dentin, another hard layer that supports the tooth and shields the inner pulp. The pulp, located at the center of the tooth, is a soft tissue containing blood vessels and nerve endings. During tooth development, the pulp nourishes the surrounding hard tissues. Once a tooth is fully mature, it can survive without its pulp by receiving nutrients from the surrounding tissues.
Root Canal Procedure
A root canal is a precise procedure that may require two or more dental visits, depending on the complexity of the case. At Sue Walker Dentistry, we aim to ease any anxiety you may feel, ensuring you are informed and comfortable throughout the process. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities. The procedure generally follows four stages:
- Stage One: A radiograph of the tooth is taken using an X-ray to assess the level of infection. A local anesthetic is applied, and a dental dam is placed around the tooth to isolate it from saliva and neighboring teeth.
- Stage Two: A small hole is made in the crown of the tooth, and the infected pulp is carefully removed, creating space in the tooth’s chamber.
- Stage Three: After cleaning and shaping the chamber, the roots are filled with a biocompatible material. A temporary filling is placed over the chamber to protect the tooth.
- Stage Four: At a follow-up visit, the temporary filling is removed, and a crown is placed over the tooth to restore its full function and protect it from future damage.
Our goal is to ensure the long-term health and function of your teeth. If you are experiencing symptoms or require treatment, contact us at 971-447-4385 to schedule your consultation.