Endodontics
Endodontics focuses on treating the inside of the tooth, specifically the pulp, tissues, and nerves. Endodontists receive specialized training beyond dental school, allowing them to perform complex procedures like root canal therapy.
In the past, teeth with damaged nerves were often extracted, but endodontists can now save most natural teeth. Root canal therapy involves removing the infected inner tooth structures, then sealing the tooth with a crown to restore health and function.
Signs of Endodontic Problems:
Swollen, tender gums
Sensitivity to hot and cold
Pain when chewing
Tooth discoloration
Unexplained pain in nearby lymph nodes
Common Causes of Inner Tooth Damage:
Bacterial Infections: Bacteria enter the pulp through decay or injury, causing inflammation and possible abscesses.
Fractures and Chips: Exposed pulp from a broken tooth can be extremely painful and may require a root canal.
Injuries: Trauma to the teeth can dislodge them, often requiring root canal therapy to stabilize and save the tooth.
Tooth Loss: If a tooth is knocked out, it should be placed back in the socket or kept in milk until a dentist can perform root canal therapy.
What to Expect During Root Canal Therapy:
Root canal therapy typically takes 1-3 visits. After X-rays and administering a local anesthetic, the dentist will create an opening in the tooth, remove the damaged pulp, and clean and seal the space with gutta-percha, a rubber-like material. A temporary filling restores functionality until a permanent crown is placed at the final visit.
Call 503.682.9191 or use our form
to get your diagnosis and plan today.
Root Canal Therapy
Saving Your Tooth
Root canal therapy is needed when decay or infection affects the nerve of a tooth. To save the tooth, the infected pulp, nerves, and any decay are removed, and the space is filled with medicated dental materials to restore the tooth’s function.
Many think removing a problem tooth is the best solution, but extraction can be more costly and lead to issues with adjacent teeth. Root canal therapy is a highly successful treatment, often lasting a lifetime, though occasional retreatment may be needed.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal:
Abscess on the gums
Sensitivity to hot and cold
Severe toothache
Swelling or tenderness
Sometimes, no symptoms at all
Reasons for Root Canal Therapy:
Decay has reached the tooth pulp
Infection or abscess has formed
Injury or trauma to the tooth
The Root Canal Process:
The procedure usually requires one or more appointments. After numbing the tooth, a rubber dam is placed to keep it dry. The dentist creates an opening in the tooth and removes the pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria. The tooth is then thoroughly cleaned and sealed with a temporary or permanent filling.
At the next visit, the inside of the tooth is filled and sealed, and a crown is recommended to protect the tooth and restore its full function. Some sensitivity is normal after treatment, but it will subside as the tooth heals.
Following good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits will help ensure the long-term success of your root canal therapy.