Root canal therapy in Chehalis: All you need to know

When a tooth has extreme decay, which has infected the nerve inside, it is essential to go for root canal therapy to save it from extraction. The process may sound complicated on paper, but it doesn’t involve as many risks. When you visit a Chehalis dentist, they will explain all details, but for your help, here is a quick overview.

When do you need root canal therapy?

If infection and decay have impacted the pulp, root canal therapy is usually the only way to avoid getting the tooth extracted. Your dentist will usually take X-rays to check the extent of damage, following which they will discuss the treatment. There could be other imminent signs, such as an abscess on the gums, tooth sensitivity, severe toothache, and tenderness. At times, dentists may discover an infected tooth during a routine exam. You may also need root canal therapy when you have an injury to the particular tooth.

Steps in root canal therapy

Once your dentist confirms that you need root canal therapy, the procedure will likely be divided into two or more steps.

1. The first step is to use local anesthesia, following which a rubber dam will be placed to keep it dry. Your dentist will then drill an access opening and use special dental files to clean the tooth from the inside. The step requires removing the pulp, decay, and bacteria, along with decay.
2. In some cases, the whole process of removing decay and cleaning the tooth may require more than one appointment, for which you will have to return to the clinic.
3. Following that, you will come for the third appointment. The tooth is filled and sealed with dental materials. The filling is used to fill the tooth, which will close the opening of the tooth.
4. You will have to give your bite impressions, which the dentist will use to order a cap. Called the crown, the cap will encase the entire tooth to protect it from damage and restore full function.

You may experience some pain and sensitivity after root canal therapy, but these issues should subside in a few days. You must keep up with oral hygiene practices and must see your dentist every few months, as suggested. If the procedure fails, the tooth must be extracted, which is why you should consider RCT to avoid complications. Check with your dentist to know if there are other concerns.