Root Canal Therapy in Woodinville, WA
A severe toothache can be a sign that the soft tissue inside your tooth is infected or inflamed. Root canal therapy relieves that pain and saves your natural tooth. At Oasis Family Dentistry, Dr. Tim Hung performs gentle, modern root canal treatment that feels much like getting a filling. Call (425) 486-9245 for more information or to schedule a consultation.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is an endodontic treatment that removes infected or damaged pulp from inside a tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue at the center of the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. When it becomes inflamed or infected, it can cause intense pain and, if left untreated, lead to an abscess, bone loss, and the loss of the tooth.
Pulp infections are most often caused by deep tooth decay that reaches past the enamel and dentin. They can also result from a cracked or chipped tooth, repeated dental procedures on the same tooth, or trauma from an injury.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
- Severe, throbbing, or persistent tooth pain
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold after the source is removed
- Pain when chewing or touching the tooth
- Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
- Swollen or tender gums near the tooth
- A pimple-like bump on the gums
- Facial swelling
Some infected teeth cause no symptoms at all, which is why regular exams and digital X-rays are so important.
The Root Canal Procedure
Comfort first: Dr. Hung numbs the tooth and surrounding area so you feel little more than pressure. Sedation dentistry is available for anxious patients.
Cleaning the tooth: A small opening is made in the top of the tooth. The infected or inflamed pulp is carefully removed, and the root canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected.
Sealing the tooth: The canals are filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to prevent reinfection.
Restoring the tooth: Most teeth that have had a root canal, especially back teeth, need a dental crown to restore strength and protect the tooth from breaking.
Recovery
Most patients return to normal activities the next day. Mild tenderness for a few days is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth until your final restoration is placed.
Saving Your Natural Tooth
Keeping your natural tooth is almost always the best option. A treated and restored tooth can last a lifetime with good care. When a tooth can’t be saved, a gentle tooth extraction followed by a dental implant or bridge is an option. For sudden pain, call us for emergency dental care. Members of our Oasis Wellness Plan save on root canal therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Therapy in Woodinville
Does a root canal hurt?
With modern anesthesia, a root canal feels similar to getting a filling. The procedure actually relieves the pain caused by infection.
How long does a root canal take?
Most root canals are completed in one or two visits lasting about 60 to 90 minutes each.
Do I need a crown after a root canal?
Most back teeth need a crown afterward to protect them from fracturing. Front teeth may sometimes be restored with a filling.
What happens if I don’t get a root canal?
The infection can spread, causing an abscess, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss. It may also affect your overall health.
How long does a root canal last?
With a proper restoration and good oral hygiene, a tooth treated with root canal therapy can last a lifetime.
Is it better to pull the tooth instead?
Saving your natural tooth is usually the best choice for function and long-term health. Extraction requires a replacement to prevent shifting and bone loss.
Does insurance cover root canals?
Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of root canal therapy. Our team will review your benefits and financing options.
Get Relief and Save Your Tooth
Don’t let tooth pain linger. Call Oasis Family Dentistry at (425) 486-9245 or request an appointment online to see if root canal therapy is right for you.