What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a procedure designed to save a severely decayed or infected tooth. It becomes necessary when the pulp (the soft tissue inside your tooth containing nerves and blood vessels) is severely damaged or infected. Instead of losing your natural tooth, this treatment removes infected tissue, preserves the tooth structure, and restores its function and appearance.
Here’s how it works:
- Infection Removal: The procedure begins with the dentist making an opening in the crown (top) of the tooth to access the infected or damaged pulp—the soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels.
- Cleaning and Shaping: The infected pulp is carefully removed. The empty space inside the tooth is cleaned and shaped to ensure it’s free of bacteria and ready for sealing.
- Sealing: Once the infection is cleared, the space is filled with a special material to seal it off, preventing further infection.
- Restoration: After the root canal, the tooth is often topped with a crown or filling.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Recognizing the symptoms of a damaged or infected tooth is the first step to getting the care you need. You may need a root canal if you experience:
- Severe Tooth Pain: Persistent or sharp pain that won’t go away.
- Sensitivity to Hot or Cold: Lingering discomfort when consuming hot or cold drinks.
- Swollen or Tender Gums: Inflamed or tender gums around the affected tooth.
- Tooth Discoloration: A tooth that appears darker or more discolored than others.
- Frequent Gum Abscess: A pimple-like bump on the gums that drains pus.
Not sure if your symptoms point to a root canal? Visit Queen Anne Smiles for a professional diagnosis, and we’ll recommend treatment only when absolutely necessary.
Benefits of this Procedure
While the idea of a root canal might be intimidating, the benefits are well worth it. It’s a great way to put an end to your pain and prevent the damage from spreading. By addressing the issue now, you’re not only saving your tooth but also protecting your overall oral health in the long run.
Pain Relief
Eliminate the sharp or persistent pain caused by infection.
Easier Eating & Chewing
Enjoy food again without fear of discomfort.
Stop The Spread of Infection
Protect the rest of your teeth by halting the infection.
Natural Tooth Preservation
Restore your tooth’s appearance and avoid extraction.
What to Expect During Your Root Canal
At Queen Anne Smiles, your comfort is our top priority. Here’s what happens during a root canal procedure:
- Comfort Comes First
We’ll numb the area to ensure you don’t feel a thing. Many patients find the procedure as stress-free as getting a filling. - Removal of Infection
Our skilled team removes the damaged or infected pulp from inside your tooth. - Cleaning & Filling
Once cleaned, the space is filled and sealed to prevent future infections. - Tooth Restoration
Your tooth is restored with a crown or filling to look and feel like new.
FAQs About Root Canals
Common symptoms include tooth pain, sensitivity to temperature, swollen gums, discoloration, or recurring abscesses.
Most root canals are completed in a single visit, though some cases may require a follow-up appointment.
The procedure is straightforward—cleaning the infected tissue, sealing the tooth, and restoring it with a crown or filling.
Not at Queen Anne Smiles. Our expert team uses modern, pain-free techniques to ensure you remain completely comfortable during the procedure. We use local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth, so you won’t feel any pain while we work.
Recovery is typically quick. In the first 24 hours, you might experience mild swelling and discomfort that can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored (with a crown or filling) to prevent any damage. Most people feel normal again within a few days
Depending on your case, extraction or other treatments may be alternatives. However, we prioritize preserving your natural tooth whenever possible.
Schedule Your Root Canal Treatment in Seattle Today
You don’t deserve to be in pain every day. At Queen Anne Smiles, we’re dedicated to getting to the root of the problem and providing the relief you need. Book your root canal treatment today and take the first step toward a pain-free, healthy smile.