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Home Dental Services Restorative Dentistry Root Canal

Root Canals


3D rendered cross-section view of a tooth and its roots.Root canals are dental procedures aimed at saving teeth that have become severely damaged or infected. Despite the common perception that root canals are painful, advancements in dental technology and anesthesia have made this procedure more comfortable and effective than ever.

What Is a Root Canal?


A root canal is a treatment designed to repair and save a tooth that is severely decayed or infected. The procedure involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and then filling and sealing the space. By preserving the tooth structure, root canals prevent the need for extraction and help maintain oral health.

Root canals are necessary for several reasons:
•  Infection: The most common reason for a root canal is an infection in the tooth pulp, often caused by untreated cavities, cracks, or trauma.
•  Pain Relief: When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed, it can cause severe pain. A root canal alleviates this pain by removing the source of infection.
•  Preventing Tooth Loss: By saving the tooth, root canals help prevent more extensive dental issues, including the need for implants or bridges to replace lost teeth.

How Is a Root Canal Done?


The root canal procedure typically involves several steps:
•  Diagnosis and Preparation: Our doctors begins with a thorough examination, often using X-rays to assess the extent of the infection and the anatomy of the tooth. Once diagnosed, local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
•  Accessing the Pulp: We will create an opening in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals.
•  Removing the Pulp: Using specialized tools, we will carefully remove the infected or damaged pulp tissue from inside the tooth.
•  Cleaning and Disinfecting: After the pulp is removed, we will clean and disinfect the empty canals to eliminate any remaining bacteria. This step is crucial to prevent future infections.
•  Filling the Canals: Once cleaned, the canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, which seals the space and prevents recontamination.
•  Restoration: After the root canal is complete, we may place a temporary filling. In many cases, a permanent restoration, such as a crown, is required to protect the tooth and restore its function.

Recovery Information


Recovery from a root canal is typically straightforward. Most patients can return to their normal activities shortly after the procedure. However, it's normal to experience some soreness or mild pain in the treated area for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers are usually sufficient to manage any discomfort. Some patients may experience slight swelling, which they can alleviate with ice packs.

Patients should follow our aftercare instructions, which may include avoiding hard or sticky foods and maintaining good oral hygiene.

How Long Does a Root Canal Last?


With proper care, a tooth that has undergone a root canal can last many years, often a lifetime. The longevity of the treatment depends on several factors, including the extent of the initial infection and how well the tooth is cared for post-treatment.

Root canals are a vital procedure for saving damaged or infected teeth, providing relief from pain and preventing further complications. By understanding the procedure, its purpose, and what to expect during recovery, patients can approach root canal treatment with confidence.

Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are essential to maintaining the health of the treated tooth and ensuring its longevity. Ultimately, a root canal can restore not just the function of a tooth, but also the quality of life for individuals facing dental issues.

Schedule Your Appointment today!


If you are interested in learning more about our services, please call (971) 374-5600, and schedule your appointment today!



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Office Hours


Monday-Wednesday: 8:00am-5:00pm
Thursday: 8:00am-4:00pm
Friday, Saturday, Sunday Closed.
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Lakeview Dental Center, 2601 25th St SE Suite 430, Salem, OR 97302 / (971) 374-5600 / dentistinsalem.com / 1/14/2025 / Tags: dentist Salem OR /