How Can a Root Canal Save an Infected Tooth?

Infected and damaged teeth are not uncommon; however, the type of treatment needed depends on the severity of the issue and how long the issue has been occurring. Root canals can help you to save an infected tooth that has damage to the center of the tooth. Dr. Hal Kussick can help you find the best treatment option based on your goals and needs. Schedule a consultation with Dental @888 General and Aesthetic Dentistry in Seattle, WA today.

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a dental treatment designed to help remove damaged or infected tissue from your tooth while restructuring the tooth so that you can save the health and function of your teeth. This helps you save your tooth from having to be removed. Many infections and other dental issues can be fixed in the earlier stages with a filling or other type of replacement. However, if you leave these issues untreated, they can become more severe and may require treatment like a root canal. This treatment can be used to help treat teeth suffering from abscesses or structural damage.

How do root canals work?

The first step to getting a root canal is having Dr. Kussick examine your damaged tooth. This typically includes a digital scan, an oral exam, and other necessary tests. This will help Dr. Kussick to decide if a root canal is the best possible therapy or if something else would work better. Our office offers local anesthesia and other sedation methods. Once the surrounding area is numbed, a dental dam will be placed to protect your surrounding teeth. The inflamed portions of your tooth will be extracted. The region will be reshaped with a specialized tool. Finally, the area will be sanitized, and a special material will be used to fill in the missing portions of your tooth. This helps to keep your oral and dental health in good condition while also saving your tooth.

What should I know about root canals?

There are multiple symptoms you can look for that may point to needing a root canal. These symptoms include:

• Tooth pain
• Color changes in your tooth
• Sensitivity to temperatures
• Blisters on or near the gums
• Swelling and inflammation
• Discomfort with chewing

After your root canal, you may experience some dental sensitivity, swelling, and inflammation. However, this should subside within a few days. You will need to attend checkup appointments with Dr. Kussick to ensure your dental health is in good condition and have any restorative treatments done. It is best that you avoid chewing on the side that the root canal was done on until it has had time to heal.

Get a root canal in Seattle, WA

Root canals are a great way to treat dental damage that you might have while keeping the structure and integrity of your tooth. This can allow you to keep and save the tooth that is currently damaged. This treatment can help you enhance the overall health, structure, and function of your teeth. Dr. Hal Kussick can help you determine if you are a good candidate for a root canal. Contact Dental @888 General and Aesthetic Dentistry in Seattle, WA today for a full consultation on the overall state of your oral and dental health.