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12
May
A glimpse into root canal treatment to ease painful infections and preserve badly damaged teeth
A dental abscess or infection can develop from untreated cavities, cracked or broken teeth, advanced gum disease, or damage to the tooth’s inner pulp tissue. Fortunately, even severely infected teeth may be saved with a root canal procedure at the offices of Eckland Family Dental in Everett and Redmond, Washington.
Don’t root canal treatments hurt?
Not the treatment — the infection is what hurts. Root canal therapy is often associated with pain, but that’s because it treats painful issues like abscesses and deep infections. When bacteria reach the pulp, the nerves inside respond with sharp, sometimes radiating pain. Treating the canals helps remove the source of infection and relieves the pain — it doesn’t cause it.
What is done during a “root canal”?
First, we use precision anesthesia to numb the gums. After the area is fully numb, a small opening is made to access the inside of the affected tooth. Special techniques and dental instruments remove the infected tissue and other debris. The treatment site is thoroughly sterilized to ensure no traces of disease-causing substances are left behind. Once done, the now-empty chamber and the canals that extend down from the pulp are filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. The opening used to access the inside of the tooth is also closed off with a temporary filling. Typically, a dental crown is also applied to the treated tooth.
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Redmond Office
New Patients: (425) 448-6339 | Existing Patients: (425) 979-4430
Everett Office
New Patients: (425) 249-3830 | Existing Patients: (425) 259-6551
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Why do I need a dental crown, too?
Often, dental crowns are necessary to ensure proper healing and the long-term success of root canal treatment. The treated tooth may be delicate and at risk of further damage. A dental crown reinforces the structure, protects it from further damage, and restores its appearance. It’s a critical step to ensure your tooth stays healthy long-term.
How common are root canal failures?
According to the American Association of Endodontists, root canal therapy has a success rate exceeding 97%. While this treatment is renowned for its high success rate, many considerations and factors can affect healing. Notably, it is essential to follow any instructions for care provided by our team at Eckland Family Dental. For instance, failure to maintain follow-up appointments and to receive your permanent crown can endanger the treated tooth. It may not heal properly and may ultimately require extraction or tooth removal.
Will I need antibiotics, too?
Every patient and every treatment is a little different. In cases where your tooth is severely infected, antibiotics may be prescribed. Be sure to take them exactly as your dentist prescribes to support healing and prevent complications.
To learn more about this tooth-preserving treatment and to schedule an appointment, call our offices in Everett or Redmond, WA, today at (425) 249-3830 and (425) 448-6339, respectively.
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Dr. Kale Eckland
Eckland Family Dental, led by the accomplished team of Dr. Kale Eckland, Dr. Alina Tran, and Dr. Lauren Ma, is a trusted provider of comprehensive dental care in Everett, Redmond, and surrounding communities. With specialized training and extensive expertise in various areas of dentistry, the team is committed to delivering personalized, high-quality dental solutions tailored to each patient’s needs.
Their patient-centered approach prioritizes both oral health and aesthetic outcomes, helping patients maintain radiant smiles. Eckland Family Dental combines state-of-the-art technology, advanced techniques, and a compassionate touch to ensure every patient experience is comfortable and rewarding, and they are dedicated to fostering lifelong oral health and earning the trust of families in the community through exceptional care and service.
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