Although root canals are highly successful in saving infected teeth, sometimes they fail, or the tooth is so severely infected that it cannot be saved. All options will be presented and discussed, but sometimes the tooth must ultimately be extracted.

Before beginning the surgery, a local anesthetic will be applied to numb the area. For the patient’s comfort, a strong general anesthetic may also be used. Once the anesthesia has taken effect, instruments will be used to carefully remove the tooth.

After the procedure, it is important to follow the specific instructions given to care for the area and allow it to properly heal.

Following the extraction, a dental implant should be considered to improve not only your appearance, but also chewing and speech.

For more information about tooth extractions, contact our dentists in Vancouver, WA today!

Teeth are made up of tissue, blood vessels, and nerves, and are protected by enamel. Usually taken for granted, they are important not only for chewing, but also for speech.

The first indication of a problem is a toothache. When the enamel is cracked or damaged, including from erosion due to acid in foods and toxins released by bacteria, there can be slight sensitivity or sharp pain.

Overtime, holes in weakened enamel may form, and if left untreated, may grow and bacteria may infect deeper layers. Once the nerve is exposed to bacteria, a root canal may be needed. Signs may include toothache upon application of pressure, such as chewing, prolonged sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, and tenderness or swelling of the gums.

With anesthesia, the infected pulp in the root canal is removed and disinfected, then the tooth is filled and resealed.

Are Root Canals Safe?

There are many common misconceptions that root canal treatments cause severe pain and/or illness. However, it is a common procedure, similar to regular fillings, and with modern anesthetic and techniques, most patients report minimal to mild discomfort. According to the American Association of Endodontists, millions of teeth are saved through root canal procedures every year.