Here at New Wave Dental Smiles, we proudly provide only the best family and cosmetic dentistry services because our patients deserve nothing less! At our Burien dentistry office, use all the latest and most advanced techniques in dentistry to help our patients achieve and maintain excellent oral health.
Our Seattle root canals are designed to treat and save diseased or damaged teeth by removing the inflamed or diseased nerves and pulp from deep inside the tooth roots. When you have a root canal procedure done, you can save the affected tooth to preserve the charm and beauty of your amazing smile!
When is a Root Canal Necessary?
While the outer surfaces of your teeth are covered in hard protective enamel, hidden on the inside is a collection of soft and sensitive nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue called pulp. The pulp is located in the center of the tooth, continuing down into the root that is under the gums.
When a tooth is affected by something like dental decay, the bacteria in decay can spread to the pulp of the tooth to cause inflammation, infection, and severe pain. Even trauma and extensive dental work done on a tooth can be enough to damage the pulp and expose it to infection.
While pain caused by an infected tooth can come and go, the infection will remain, making it necessary to undergo a root canal procedure so the infected pulp and nerves can be removed from the inside of the tooth.
Signs Indicating the Need for a Root Canal
Some signs to watch for that can indicate that you need to visit us for a Burien root canal include:
- Intense tooth pain that worsens when you bite down
- Extreme sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages
- Swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums
- Discoloration (darkening) of the tooth
If you have experienced any of the symptoms above, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bajwa right away so you can get the relief you need.
What to Expect When Undergoing a Root Canal
People fear root canals because they assume they’re painful. Actually, having a root canal done is no more painful than having a filling placed. The discomfort experienced in the period leading up to seeking dental care is truly painful, not the root canal procedure itself so don’t worry!
When you visit us for a root canal in Burien, we’ll begin by taking a few Xrays to see the shape of the tooth’s canals and determine if there’s any sign of infection in the surrounding bone. We will then use an anesthesia to numb your tooth and the surrounding area to eliminate any pain and keep you comfortable during the procedure.
Once you’re numb and comfortable, Dr. Bajwa will make a small access hole in your tooth using a dental drill. He will then carefully remove the dead and infected pulp and nerves using special tools. Then the canals will be cleaned and disinfected. Once this is done, a special filling is put into the canals to preserve the structure of your tooth. To finish the procedure, we will seal the opening with dental cement to prevent any future infection.
If the structure or function of your tooth was damaged by the infection, we may recommend that you visit us later so we can place a crown on top of the tooth to provide it with the added strength it needs.
What to Expect After a Root Canal
Your tooth will feel sensitive and tender for the first few days following the root canal. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen are generally effective in relieving discomfort. If you have severe discomfort, we may prescribe a medication if needed. Because your tooth will feel sensitive for a few days, it’s best to avoid biting down on the treated tooth.
Schedule an Appointment with Your Local Burien Dentist!
If you have a tooth that’s causing you pain and discomfort, you may have an infection inside your tooth. We urge you to request an appointment with us right away so Dr. Bajwa can provide you with a thorough exam. Once the exam is over, you and your Burien dentist will discuss your treatment options, which may include a root canal procedure. We hope to hear from you soon!
