What Every Patient Should Know About Needing a Root Canal

family dentist in Beaverton

No one wants to visit their family dentist in Beaverton and hear that they need a root canal.

When it comes to dental procedures that everyone loves to fear, the root canal always comes out on top in terms of the sheer terror it causes patients to experience.

However, the reputation a root canal carries doesn’t quite live up to reality. Rather than causing a patient anxiety, a root canal will actually provide much needed relief as the procedures helps to save a tooth.

In case a visit to see a family dentist in Beaverton ends up with you needing a root canal, let’s take a moment to answer some common questions patients have about this valuable procedure.

Why Do I Need a Root Canal?

As most of us know by now, harmful oral bacteria that grows in the mouth contributes to the development of tooth decay and gum disease.

Through both the development of tooth decay and gum disease, harmful oral bacteria can gain access to the delicate pulp and nerves that sit at the center of our teeth. Once exposed to harmful bacteria like plaque, these delicate parts of our teeth can become infected.

An infection of the pulp leads to the destruction of this important material that also contains the nerves and blood vessels of a tooth. Without the living components of a tooth functioning properly, a tooth can die, eventually leading to permanent tooth loss.

A root canal is a procedure designed to save a tooth that’s become badly damaged.

What is a Root Canal?

In a root canal, Drs. Williams and Truskowski will create a hole in a tooth that enables them to reach the center.

Next, the root and pulp of a tooth will be removed. The center of the tooth is then completely cleaned to remove any traces of decay or harmful oral bacteria.

Once a tooth is properly cleaned, the center will be filled with a compound designed to help reinforce the structure of a tooth so that it can continue functioning as normal.

Finally, a cap will be placed over the tooth to protect the interior and to provide additional stability.

After completing a root canal, a patient’s tooth will feel as good as new.

Does a Root Canal Hurt?

A root canal causes no more discomfort than having a cavity filled.

With modern advances in dentistry and with improved pain management techniques, Drs. Williams and Truskowski can complete this important procedure with patients experiencing only minor discomfort.

What is the Recovery Process Like After a Root Canal?

For the next couple of days after treatment, your tooth may feel a little sensitive. But any minor discomfort you feel can be alleviated with the use of an over-the-counter pain medication.

Once any sensitivity passes, you can feel free to eat and drink whatever you’d like.

What Happens if You Don’t Get a Root Canal?

Without a root canal, the infection in the tooth can spread to other parts of the body. In some extreme cases, this type of untreated infection can even become life threatening should it spread to the brain.

At the very least, patients who don’t undergo a recommended root canal can expect to lose the tooth that’s in need of repair.

Your Family Dentist in Beaverton is Here to Help

Whether you require a root canal or other dental treatment, you can always count on the team at Beaverton Dental Center to provide the comfort and care you require to look and feel your best.

Contact our office today to schedule your next exam and cleaning with Drs. Williams and Truszkowski, and enjoy the benefits of a smile you can have confidence in showing.