Root Canals
Bellevue Overlake Dental
When a tooth has become decayed and is irreversibly damaged, it must be treated with a root canal as soon as possible. Even though many people are fearful about visiting the dentist for a root canal, it is actually a very simple procedure and can be performed in just one or two appointments.
Most of our Bellevue dentist’s patients are surprised by how little discomfort they feel. It is much more painful to live with a rotting tooth that is causing ongoing pain than to undergo a root canal procedure and get lasting relief.
How a Root Canal is Performed
This will help to completely numb the gums, as well as the tongue, the teeth, and any skin around the area.
When you are completely numb and relaxed, she may need to separate the decayed teeth from the other teeth using a small sheet of rubber on a metal frame.
She can then drill down to remove the pulp from the tooth and fill the area with temporary filling materials, and a final root canal filling. After the root canal is performed, a permanent filling or crown can be placed.
Benefits of a Root Canal Procedure
The root canal procedure treats or prevents an infection of the pulp inside the tooth. Some of the key benefits of this procedure include:
- Reducing the risk of an infection relocating to other parts of the body.
- Prevents a more severe infection from occurring or spreading.
- Reduces the risk of damaging the bone surrounding the tooth or infected teeth.
- Serves as an alternative to an extraction when a tooth is not severely decayed or infected.
Schedule your appointment for a root canal with Bellevue dentists, Dr. Yu today! Call us at 425-453-9999.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a procedure that treats or prevents infection of the pulp inside a tooth. It is used when a tooth has become decayed and irreversibly damaged.
How many appointments does a root canal take?
A root canal can typically be completed in one or two appointments at our Bellevue office.
What happens during a root canal procedure?
Dr. Yu numbs the area with local anesthetic and may isolate the tooth with a small rubber sheet on a metal frame. She then removes the pulp from inside the tooth and fills the space, first with temporary material and then with a final root canal filling.
Will I need a crown after a root canal?
After a root canal, a permanent filling or a crown is placed to restore the tooth. Dr. Yu will recommend the best option for your tooth.
Why choose a root canal instead of pulling the tooth?
A root canal can be an alternative to extraction when a tooth is not severely decayed or infected. It helps prevent infection from spreading and reduces the risk of damage to the bone around the tooth.
How soon should I get a root canal?
When a tooth is decayed and irreversibly damaged, it should be treated as soon as possible. Call or text 425-453-9999 or book online at book.modento.io/bellevue-overlake-dental to schedule an evaluation.
The information on this page is for general educational purposes and does not replace a dental examination by Dr. Monika Yu. For questions about your dental health, contact Bellevue Overlake Dental.
