Root Canal Dentist Services Lynnwood, WA

What is Root Canal Treatment

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A root canal is a dental procedure that treats infection or damage within the inner layers of a tooth, specifically the pulp. The pulp is the soft tissue inside your tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. When this area becomes inflamed or infected, it can cause significant pain and may put the health of your tooth at risk.

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Why Would Someone Need a Root Canal?

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Here are some common reasons why a root canal may be necessary:

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Severe Tooth Decay or Cavities

Deep cavities that reach the pulp can lead to infection or inflammation. If left untreated, the infection may spread, causing pain and potentially leading to tooth loss. A root canal removes the infected pulp and seals the tooth to prevent further damage.

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Cracked or Chipped Teeth

An injury or trauma that cracks or chips the tooth can expose the pulp to bacteria, leading to infection. Even tiny cracks that are not visible to the eye may require attention if they compromise the pulp's integrity.

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Tooth Abscess
An abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. It can form around the root of a tooth that is severely decayed or damaged, leading to intense pain, swelling, and sensitivity. A root canal can treat the infection and stop it from spreading.

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Dental Trauma
A hard hit to the mouth, even if the tooth doesn’t appear broken, might damage the pulp. Over time, the tooth could die, making a root canal essential to preserve it.

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Repeated Dental Procedures on the Same Tooth
Aggressive or repeated treatments, such as multiple fillings or crown placements, can irritate the pulp. A root canal is sometimes needed to treat the resulting damage or infection.

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What Happens During a Root Canal?

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The procedure is typically straightforward and involves the following steps:

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Numbing the Area
The dentist administers a local anesthetic to ensure you’re comfortable throughout.

Removing the Damaged Pulp
Your dentist makes a small opening in the tooth and carefully removes the infected or damaged pulp from the root canals.

Cleaning and Shaping
The inside of the canals is cleaned, disinfected, and shaped to prepare it for sealing.

Sealing the Tooth
The canals are filled with a biocompatible material to prevent further infection, and the opening is closed with a temporary or permanent filling.

Final Restoration
To restore the tooth’s function and strength, a crown or filling is placed, depending on the tooth’s condition.

 

Why Is a Root Canal Important?

While many people worry about the procedure, a root canal is essential for saving a damaged tooth, eliminating pain, and preventing the need for extraction. By addressing the infection or inflammation, a root canal helps restore oral health and ensures the surrounding teeth are not affected.

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If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, pain, swelling, or notice visible damage to your teeth, it’s important to seek dental care right away. Early intervention can save your tooth and spare you from more complicated procedures down the road. Call us to schedule an appointment.