Endodontics or Root Canal Therapy

Saving a tooth is a common goal.  Sometimes teeth have large amounts of decay that invade the nerve, causing extreme pain.  In years past the only choice was to remove the tooth, but over time this action can have extreme consequences.

If given a choice, keeping a tooth is usually the best.  If the nerve is infected, root canal therapy is needed.  The process is simple, but history has tainted people’s perception that it is always painful and a horrible experience.  Modern dentistry has changed that.

Therapy on the nerve is simply removing the nerve tissue and hollowing out the space.  If the infection has spread beyond the tooth, medicine may be placed and allowed to work for a few days, and another visit is needed to finish.

At this point the remaining tooth is weak and needs to be reinforced.  The space is filled and the tooth built up and a crown is required to complete the process.

Most people remark that the experience was different than what they expected.  It is usually faster than planned and without the stereotypical pain they were warned about.

If you have a tooth that is hurting, don’t hesitate.  Call 206-241-5533 to see what your options are!