Root canal (or endodontic) treatment is required when the inside of your tooth (the pulp) becomes inflamed or infected. A tooth may become inflamed or infected due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, faulty crowns, a crack or chip in the tooth, or a deep cavity or issues from a previous filling.
You may need root canal treatment if
Root canal treatment is done to eliminate bacteria from the infected root canal, prevent reinfection of the tooth, and save the natural tooth.
During a root canal treatment, Dr. Klemann removes the inflamed or infected pulp, carefully cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, and fills and seals it with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. The tooth is then restored with a crown or filling for protection.
The benefits of having root canal treatment are that it can save a tooth, relieve pain, and make teeth healthy again.
At Distinctive Dentistry in Clackamas, Dr. Klemann has extensive experience with root canal treatment. To make an appointment, call Distinctive Dentistry at (503) 698-4884. For your convenience, you may also schedule an appointment online.
For root canal treatment, patients are given anesthesia to make them as comfortable as possible. After the anesthesia wears off, patients may feel a bit numb or sore and mild discomfort for a few days. You can take a combination of ibuprofen and acetaminophen to help ease any pain or swelling you may experience.
The number of appointments you’ll need for root canal treatment will depend on the condition of your tooth and your circumstances. Generally, though, you can expect one or two appointments to complete the process.
Generally, root canal treatment takes 60 to 90 minutes. More complex cases may take longer.
It is better to get a root canal than pull a tooth. You always want to save a natural tooth whenever possible. Besides, it costs less to have root canal treatment with restoration to the natural tooth than to have a tooth pulled and then have a dental implant or dental bridge made to replace the missing tooth.
It is better to get a root canal than pull a tooth. You always want to save a natural tooth whenever possible. Besides, it costs less to have root canal treatment with restoration to the natural tooth than to have a tooth pulled and then have a dental implant or dental bridge made to replace the missing tooth.
Whether you have a tooth filled versus a root canal depends on the amount of tooth decay you have and if it has reached the pulp of the tooth or not. A filling is typically recommended for smaller cavities or minor tooth decay. A root canal is recommended when tooth decay is more severe and has affected the tooth’s pulp. A root canal will prevent further damage to the tissue.
The cost of root canal treatment depends on several factors, including
Our staff will review the costs with you at the time of your consultation.
After a root canal, you may still feel numb for up to 2-4 hours. You can return to school or work if you feel up to it; however, avoid eating anything until the numbness is gone.
With proper oral hygiene, most teeth with root canal treatment can last a lifetime.
