Root Canals

Root Canals are probably the most feared procedure when people think about dentistry, but they don’t have to be.  We will make sure you will be completely numb and comfortable before starting the procedure.  Most people experience no pain during the procedure and often feel much better after.  Teeth needing root canal treatment can often be painful before the procedure is completed.  This is why it’s important to see a dentist if you experience any pain from your teeth.

What is a Root canal?

In the center of each tooth underneath the layers on enamel and dentin sits the pulp.  The pulp is made up of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue.  This allows the tooth to feel hot and cold.  The nerves and blood vessels travel from the tips of the roots through canals to reach the pulp.  There are normally between 1-4 canals per tooth.

Why do I feel pain?

If bacteria reach the pulp by means of a deep cavity or crack they will infect the pulp tissue.  This can cause symptoms such as: hot cold sensitivity, swelling, pain on biting, or throbbing pain.

What are some signs I may need a root canal?

Only a dentist can diagnose if you actually need a root canal or not.  Some signs your pulp tissue may be infected are hot cold sensitivity with lingering pain, pain on biting, and constant or throbbing pain.  If you experience any of these symptoms you should call us to have it checked out.  We have a series of diagnostic tests we can run on your tooth determine if it needs a root canal or not.

What does the Root Canal procedure entail?

The procedure for root canal involves cleaning out the infected pulp (nerve) tissue and sealing the space with a rubber material called Gutta Percha.  Depending on the tooth it may also need a post to give support to the remaining tooth structure and a crown to prevent the tooth from further fracture.

Will I need to Travel to Eugene to have the root canal completed by a specialist?

All root canals have different levels difficulty depending of factors such as:  number of canals in the tooth, shape of the canals, and size of the canals.  We can complete most simple root canals here in our office.  The Doctors can determine if you need to be referred by looking at an X-ray of the tooth.