Root Canal

An infected tooth requires prompt treatment, and a root canal is the best way to correct the problem and relieve symptoms. At Issaquah Dental Care in Issaquah, Washington, you have access to a team of highly skilled professionals who provide excellent root canal treatment. Schedule a visit online or over the phone in just moments.  

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure that treats an infected tooth. Your root canal is the passageway that begins near the top of your tooth extending to the tip of your root. This space contains pulp, a mix of blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissues. 

When bacteria enters your tooth due to advanced decay, a crack, or after traumatic injury, infection can take hold in the pulp. Root canal treatment removes all traces of infected pulp and restores the tooth with a custom crown. 

What are signs I need a root canal?

Some indications of an infected tooth include:

• Pain that worsens when biting down
• Red or darkened gum tissue
• Pimple-like sores on the gums
• Darkened tooth
• Heightened sensitivity to heat or cold, even after the source is removed
• Cracked or chipped tooth

If you experience these changes, schedule a diagnostic exam right away. A simple dental exam and imaging is all that’s needed to determine if your tooth is infected. 

What happens during a root canal?

You can expect at least two office visits for the completion of your root canal. A numbing agent keeps you comfortable throughout the procedure. Once you’re properly numbed, special dental tools create a small hole in your tooth to allow your dentist to remove the pulp and nerve.

Your dentist uses a series of incredibly slim dental tools called files to remove all of the pulp within the inner chamber of your tooth, including down into the canal portion of the root. 

Your dentist then thoroughly disinfects the chamber of your tooth and packs it with specialized dental cement. An impression of your teeth guides the fabrication of your permanent crown, and a temporary crown protects the treated tooth until the permanent version arrives.

Once your permanent crown is ready, you return to the office to have it cemented into place. You’ll receive instructions on how to care for your root canal. Brushing and flossing regularly and returning for routine cleanings and exams are important parts of the process. 

To learn more, call or schedule a visit at Issaquah Dental Care online today. You’ll meet one-on-one with a caring and compassionate dentist to explore options for restoring and protecting your smile.