A root canal is a surgical procedure which involves the removal of the pulp. This is a small core of soft tissue inside the tooth which provides nutrients from the blood and protects against infectious bacteria. The purpose of this procedure is to remove infected or dying pulp, which causes painful toothaches on the affected tooth.
While this procedure effectively kills the tooth, this procedure preserves the outer layer, which can survive without nutrients. We generally prefer this over extractions if possible, since it still leaves a functional tooth that can be filled up to prevent infections.
How We Do the Procedure
Before the procedure, root canals require some careful preparation on the patient's part. Before we begin, we would need to have the patient carefully anesthetized beforehand. This is because dental pulps contain plenty of nerve cells, and by administering anesthesia, we can help minimize any discomfort that may occur. Your comfort is extremely important to us.
After we verify that the procedure site is successfully numbed, we would then make a small opening on the tooth. Doing this allows us to find and remove the pulp. We will then proceed to carefully remove the pulp from the tooth. Once all of the pulp has been removed, we would place a topical antibiotic to protect the area from infection. After this step, we would then add a temporary filling and some sealant to keep saliva away from the site.
After one or two weeks, your tooth will be ready for a permanent filling. Depending on the tooth position, your physical state, and your preferences, we may use dental amalgam, cast gold, composite, or porcelain filling. You could come and visit us in our office so we could give you our expert recommendations, and we would be happy to answer any of your questions that you might have regarding the procedure.
Dentist Bellevue • About Cooley Smiles Bellevue For over 35 years, we've built a reputation for delivering quality general and cosmetic dental services available. Call or schedule an appointment today! Cooley Smiles, 4100 Factoria Blvd SE, Suite C, Bellevue, WA 98006-1262 : (425) 998-6998 : cooleysmiles.com : 10/10/2024 : Related Phrases: dental office, dental office in bellevue wa, dental clinic
A root canal is a surgical procedure which involves the removal of the pulp. This is a small core of soft tissue inside the tooth which provides nutrients from the blood and protects against infectious bacteria. The purpose of this procedure is to remove infected or dying pulp, which causes painful toothaches on the affected tooth.