Can a Root Canal Procedure Save My Tooth?

A root canal is performed when an infection or inflammation has infected the roots of a tooth, causing a painful abscess to form. If left untreated, the infection can eat through the tooth and destroy it beyond repair. However, with prompt treatment from a root canal procedure, the tooth can be preserved. During the procedure, the inflamed tissue is removed, and the roots are thoroughly cleaned in order to prevent further infection. Once the area is disinfected, it will be filled with an inert rubber material called gutta-percha. The tooth is then sealed with a dental crown. This will help prevent the reinfection of the tooth in the future.

In most cases, a root canal procedure can save your natural tooth. However, if decay or a crack has invaded the inner pulp of your tooth and reached the nerves inside, you may need an extraction to prevent infection from occurring. In order to save your tooth and avoid other consequences, it is critical to seek dental care when your symptoms begin. Otherwise, you could suffer an infection that could result in the loss of the tooth. 

If you suspect that you may need a root canal, it’s important to seek immediate treatment. While the procedure itself is typically quite painless, it’s imperative to act quickly to avoid irreversible damage to the tooth and surrounding bone structure. In cases of extreme damage, it may be necessary to remove the affected tooth altogether. However, this can be avoided with the help of a proper root canal procedure.

How is a Root Canal Procedure Performed?

The dentist will begin by numbing the tooth and the area surrounding your tooth. Once you are comfortable, the dentist will create a small opening in the top of your tooth. Next, your dentist will remove the infected pulp from the inside of your tooth and clean it thoroughly to remove all traces of infection. Then, they will fill and seal the opening with a composite filling or dental crown to restore full functionality to your tooth.

Once the restoration is complete, you will be free to resume your normal activities. You may experience some sensitivity immediately following the surgery, but that should subside within a few days. If your pain does not improve after several days of at-home care, contact our office immediately to schedule an appointment.

Columbia View Dental is dedicated to providing you with safe, effective, and quality treatment. Contact our best dentist in The Dalles, OR, today at (541)296-5677 to learn more about our dental treatments. Get all your questions answered at Columbia View Dental, 1915 E 19th St, The Dalles, OR, 97058.