Save Your Tooth with Root Canal Therapy

Root Canal Dental ProcedureJust a century ago, it wasn't unusual for many people to have a few missing teeth due to dental issues. Today, root canals are routinely used to save teeth that are infected or inflamed. Read below to learn how Dr. E. Richard Zbaraschuk, your dentist in Sequim, WA, can help protect your smile with a tooth-saving root canal!

 

What is root canal therapy?

Root canals are needed if the pulp at the center of your tooth has become infected or inflamed. During a root canal, this diseased pulp is removed once your mouth has been numbed with a local anesthetic. Once the pulp has been removed, the interior of the tooth and the root canals are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.

Following this process, your Sequim dentist will put a temporary filling in the tooth for a week or two to allow it to drain. During your next appointment, he'll remove the temporary filling and replace it with a permanent one. He may also recommend a crown to protect your tooth from cracking or breaking.

 

How can I tell if I need a root canal?

Although a visit to the dentist is the only way to tell for sure if you need a root canal, you may experience a few signs or symptoms that may indicate that you have an infection or inflammation. For instance, your tooth may be painful, although the pain may not be strong or constant at first. Pain tends to increase when you consume sugary, hot, or cold beverages and foods.

You may also notice that your tooth has darkened or that the gum around the problem tooth is red, swollen, and sore. If you have a serious tooth infection (i.e. an abscess), you may soon begin to feel ill. Abscesses can cause severe pain in the jaw and ear, swollen lymph nodes, and fever.

A small bump on your gum or pus around your tooth may also be signs of an abscess. Abscesses are dental emergencies that require immediate treatment to prevent the infection from spreading throughout your body.

Root canals may also be needed if your tooth was injured, loosened or knocked out then reimplanted.

 

Need treatment? Give us a call!

Root canals protect your smile! Call Zbaraschuk Dental Care in Sequim, WA, at (360) 683-3626 to schedule an appointment if you notice any of these signs and symptoms.

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