Root Canal
Portland, OR
 A tooth has several protective layers, like enamel and dentin. In case of severe decay, you may notice your tooth eroding. This is because an infection develops as microbes like bacteria feed on sugar in your food. Then they multiply and release acidic toxins that adversely affect the layers of your teeth. Each layer exposes the next one to damage until the infection reaches the pulp, a chamber of nerves, blood vessels, and soft tissues. When these become painful, you experience a severe toothache.
A root canal is a dental surgery for removing pulp to relieve pain and restore the health of a tooth. There are several myths about this procedure, so learning the essential details is crucial. Elliott Dentistry helps you understand the need, process, and consequences of a root canal.
Why You May Need a Root Canal?
Your teeth may start to decay when the plaque or tartar, a layer of bacteria, sticks to their surface for a long time. It happens when you have poor oral health, for instance, when you suffer from gum diseases for a prolonged time. It may inflame and infect the pulp, and a root canal can preserve your tooth after removing the pulp.
You may also need a root canal when a crack develops in your tooth. It may occur when you are involved in an accident or suffer a facial injury. The gap exposes the pulp to the attack of bacteria, so the tooth becomes painful as the gums turn sore. If this unfortunately happens, not all hope is lost because our professionals can still save your tooth through root canal treatment.
What Happens If Pulp Is Removed?
The removal of pulp does not affect the normal functions of the tooth. If anything, it refines them. The pulp is composed of nerves and tissues that are not vital to tooth work, like crushing, chewing, and grinding food. After our team removes it, the inflammation and infection will no longer hinder your activities because removing the pulp is safe.
The Procedure of Root Canal
A root canal treatment may take up to two appointments. It begins with an x-ray of your mouth to examine and confirm the need for surgery. After the x-ray results, our professionals will give you anesthesia to remove the risk of pain and inconvenience. They will place a sheet around the tooth, called a “rubber dam.” As the name suggests, it isolates that tooth, so the rest of your mouth remains unaffected.
The surgery includes drilling a hole on the tooth surface to reach the roots. Our experts then remove the bacteria and pulp, cleaning the tooth thoroughly. Afterward, they will seal the tooth back by filling it. You may need a crown to cap it as an added layer of security.
Is a Root Canal Painful?
The popular myth of root canals being excruciatingly painful is, fortunately, not true. The anesthesia numbs the pain receptors in your mouth, so nerves do not carry the signals of pain to your brain. However, it may be a little inconvenient once the effect of anesthesia fades away after the surgery. At Elliott Dentistry, our team gives detailed instructions for optimum care after the surgery. You may call us at (503) 661-6111 anytime to discuss further or make an appointment. |
