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Root Canal Therapy

When there is infection of the nerve in a tooth you may have severe pain, or you may have no symptoms at all. This is caused by bacteria that have gained access to the nerve through decay, cracks or fractures in the tooth.  It can also be the result of physical trauma. If there is adequate tooth structure remaining, this procedure will eradicate the source of the infection. This promotes healing and provides a foundation for long-lasting restoration and function of the tooth.

Root Canal: A Pain-Relieving Procedure

At King Dental, Dr. King suggests a root canal therapy when a painful bacterial infection reaches the root of your tooth. This procedure involves the eradication of the infection and the subsequent healing and restoration of the tooth, efficiently alleviating the associated discomfort.

Understanding the Bacterial Infection

Bacteria from food debris and plaque find pathways created by cavities, cracks, or fractures in your teeth. This bacterial infiltration into the root of your tooth causes infection and significant pain.

What Does Root Canal Therapy Involve?

Diagram of three teeth showing the steps of a root canal that involve cleaning out an infected tooth, filling it and adding a crown.

Careful removal of the contents of the pulp chamber allows for disinfection and sealing of the area which caused the infection.  In many cases, a porcelain crown is needed to protect the tooth from fracture and maintain its function for years to come.

Choosing Root Canal Over Extraction

When appropriate, Dr. King recommends root canal therapy over extraction to preserve your natural tooth structure and prevent further complications. An extraction, though sometimes necessary, can lead to additional dental issues and treatments.

Reach Out to King Dental for Root Canal Therapy

Experience a comprehensive, compassionate, and effective root canal therapy with King Dental. We are here to help you achieve optimal oral health. Contact our Salem, Oregon office at 503-588-0061, and take the first step toward pain-free, healthy teeth. Your journey to restored dental health and strength starts here.

About 1/3 of your tooth is underneath your gums—that means only two-thirds of your tooth’s length is visible.

The average person produces a quart of saliva daily. That’s 10,000 gallons of spit over a lifetime.

The idea of flossing is over 200 years old. It was first recommended by a dentist from New Orleans in 1815.

Coating a pacifier in sugar, honey, or sweetened juice can contribute to tooth decay in infants and toddlers.

Regularly drinking green tea can help promote healthy teeth and gums, and it also contains fluoride.

Wisdom teeth get their name from the age group during which they typically grow in: the "age of wisdom" (17-21 years old).

Tooth Facts Professor
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