Have a painful tooth? Contemplating extraction? Please consider this alternative: root canal therapy from Dr. Karen Tritinger-Young or Dr. Steven Kitts at Lakeside Dentistry in Yakima, WA. Safe, comfortable and smile-sparing, a root canal treatment corrects infection and toothache pain. You can keep your tooth and have a complete smile.
What is root canal therapy?
Also called endodontics, root canal therapy removes damaged and inflamed pulp from inside a tooth harmed by:
- Trauma (large crack or chip)
- Decay
- A large number of fillings
- Abscess, or infection, with its pain, drainage, reddened gums and other symptoms
- Deficient size and shape
Your dentist will determine if a root canal is the appropriate option for your oral health by looking at your tooth, reviewing any symptoms you have, and X-raying it.
The treatment
Accomplished in just two visits to Lakeside Dentistry in Yakima, a root canal requires local anesthetic only. Once the site is numb, the dentist creates an opening into the first of up to four root canals, or narrow interior chambers.
A rotary hand piece quickly removes the damaged pulp and smooths the canal walls. After instillation of antiseptic medication and adding sealant (gutta-percha) to the chamber, he or she moves on to the other canals. Finally, a temporary cap protects the tooth until you return to the office for installation of a realistic porcelain crown.
Caring for your restored tooth
Most teeth repaired with root canal therapy last just as long as other natural teeth. Pain and infection resolve, and the tooth looks just like its neighbors.
To care for your renewed tooth, be sure to:
- Brush gently twice a day every day with a fluoride toothpaste and soft-bristled brush. Do not scrub.
- Floss around your tooth to remove plaque and avoid tartar formation.
- Be gentle with biting and chewing. Avoid hard foods such as nuts, ice cubes and taffy.
- Get your six-month cleanings and check-ups at Lakeside Dentistry.
Have questions?
The American Association of Endodontists (AAE) says that dentists in the US perform 15.1 root canal procedures annually, and most succeed, saving teeth. For more information on the benefits of root canal therapy versus extraction, call Lakeside Dentistry in Yakima, WA. Dr. Tritinger-Young or Dr. Kitts will be happy to explain your options. Phone (509) 494-0121.