Root Canals A root canal is a dental procedure involving the removal of the soft center of the tooth, which is the pulp. The pulp is made up of nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels that help maintain the health of a tooth. Our dentists and endodontists are well-trained and equipped to perform a root canal while under local anesthesia. This ensures our patients have the best comfort during their procedure. We also provide advice and address potential risks involved. For exceptional root canal treatment, reach out to the dental professionals at East Portland Dentistry.Why You May Need a Root CanalDamage to a tooth pulp can result from deep decay due to an untreated cavity, multiple dental procedures on the same tooth, a chip or crack in the tooth, an injury to the tooth, or extreme hypersensitivity. Our professionals will examine the painful tooth and take x-rays to confirm the diagnosis. The dentist will thoroughly explain the need for removing the diseased nerve, the specifics of the root canal procedure, and answer any questions you may have. We can also refer you to a root canal specialist called an endodontist, if we decide together this is more appropriate. Root Canal Treatment ProcedureThe dentist will place a small amount of numbing medication on the gum near the infected tooth during the treatment. The anesthetic will keep the patient from feeling any pain during the approximately one-hour procedure. The dentist will make a small opening in the top of the tooth and clean out any decay or diseased tooth structure. When the infected part of the pulp is exposed, the dentist will carefully remove it using particular files. Our professionals ensure quality work by cleaning out all pathways in your tooth. Once the pulp is removed, the dentist will flush the area with disinfectants to ensure that the infection is gone and prevent reinfections. Our practitioners will also fill and seal the tooth with a sealer paste and rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This sealant helps prevent the canals from becoming reinfected from the bacteria in your saliva. The ending process is filling the small opening with a dental restorative material, and/or placing a new crown to support and protect the tooth. Antibiotics may be prescribed in certain circumstances, but may not be necessary once the root canal is completed. Often a patient may experience discomfort after a root canal, but our caring dentists will make sure you are well-informed about what pain medications might be appropriate for you. Patients may need to make an appointment for a follow-up visit. You should also avoid chewing with the damaged tooth until it's permanently filled or a crown is placed over the top. After this procedure is complete, your tooth may look and feel brand new. It is advisable to regularly schedule checkups with our dentist at East Portland Dentistry to get ahead of any potential damage or decay to your teeth. Contact us at (971) 484-1652 for the best dental services. |
 Phone(971) 484-1652 HoursMonday – 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Tuesday – 7:00 am - 5:00 pm Wednesday – 8:00 am - 1:00 pm Thursday – 8:00 am - 6:00 pm Friday – 8:00 am - 5:00 pm |
