One of the worst things about a toothache is that you simply can’t escape it. Whether you’re getting ready in the morning, concentrating at work, hanging out with friends, or trying to go to sleep, it’s always there. Despite its negative reputation, root canal therapy in Salem, OR is actually a virtually painless procedure that is designed to stop dental discomfort, not cause it. If you’re ready to put your toothache behind you and get on with your life, Dr. Cochell and the team at Cochell Family Dentistry are eager to help right away, so just give us a call !
Root canal therapy is usually recommended for a tooth with an infection that has progressed deep into the tooth. While a cavity often involves bacteria damaging only the outermost layer, given enough time, the inner nerve of a tooth (called the dental pulp) can be affected as well. This can cause a lot of inflammation and pressure build-up in a small amount of space, which is why this type of problem is so painful. If this is the cause of your issue, then root canal therapy is the most direct solution.
A few signs that you might be dealing with infected pulp include:
The root canal process starts by making sure you are as comfortable as possible. In addition to adequately numbing the treatment area, Dr. Cochell can provide you with sedation to make sure you’re even more relaxed in the chair. She is also happy to answer any questions you might have about the procedure and walk you through it beforehand so you know exactly what to expect.
Once you are ready, the treatment follows a few basic steps:
