Root Canal Treatment Facts

What Are the Objectives of Root Canal Treatment?

The primary objective of root canal treatment when performed by Portland’s Dr. Edward Ward is to save your natural tooth for many years by ending infection and pain. Why is saving your natural tooth so important? Removing the tooth and/or replacing it with a bridge or denture does not allow for the same level of dental health, comfort, and function as a root canal procedure. Dr. Ward’s proven root canal treatment involves the removal of diseased tissue located inside the infected tooth followed by the filling and sealing of the vacant root canal space, which results in a much lower risk for future infection.

Wait, Am I in the Right FAQ? What Is “Endodontics”?

If you’re concerned about a root canal, you’re in the right place. “Endodontics” is the technical dental term for the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental diseases associated with the soft tissues inside the tooth, which is called the tooth’s “pulp.” The word has its roots in the Greek language; “endo” means “inside” and “dont” means “tooth.” Root canal dentists like Dr. Ward are highly trained in the treatment of dental pulp, which occupies the root canal space. So root canal treatment is right up our alley at Interstate Dental Clinic in Portland.

I Don’t Know. If I Have a Root Canal Treatment, Won’t I Be Killing That Tooth?

No, you’ll be saving your tooth’s life! Seriously. Infected pulpal tissue will slowly decay and ultimately kill the tooth without Dr. Ward’s intervention. But with his treatment, even though pulpal tissue is removed from inside the tooth, nourishment and a steady blood supply will continue to flow to the tooth from the supporting bone and the surrounding tissues.

Add to this a protective crown (which is generally required after successful root canal treatment), and your body will think of the endodontically-treated tooth as a natural, healthy tooth. The body’s immune system will treat it no differently than any other untreated tooth and the treated tooth will continue to serve as a vital component of the dental arch. Dr. Ward’s root canal treatment almost always results in a properly restored tooth that is no more at risk for decay, fracture, or gum disease than the natural teeth you were born with.

Have any more endodontic questions? Want to schedule an appointment with Dr. Edward Ward to “save” your tooth from imminent “death” with a proven root canal procedure at Portland’s Interstate Dental Clinic? Fill out the online form or call (833) 321-1691!