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Root Canal


While we don't perform root canals in our office, we want to make sure you are well informed of the procedure and will refer you to an endodontist if it is indicated.
3D rendered cross-section view of a tooth and its roots

Extensive Decay Can Be Treated


The pulp is the soft core of your tooth that extends from the visible area of your tooth, called the crown, to the tip of your tooth's root in your jawbone. If you have a cavity, bacteria will be able to spread into the pulp of your tooth.

If you have a cracked or chipped tooth, injuries to your tooth can cause pulp damage and inflammation. The buildup of bacteria and decaying material will cause a serious infection or a tooth abscess. This means loss of your pulp, tooth enamel, and bone structure.

If you have a hole in your tooth, pain, or temperature sensitivity in your tooth you may need a root canal. Swelling in your gums, face, or mouth, may also mean you need a root canal. Root canals are only necessary if you have extensive damage to your tooth. Treatment includes placing a crown over your tooth.

We Will Use Anesthetics


An experienced general dentist or an endodontist will perform your procedure. Your root canal procedure will only take two appointments and about an hour of your time.

For your first appointment, x-rays will be taken so that we can see exactly how much of your tooth has been affected by decay. With these photos, our dentist will be able to effectively spot decay down to the pulp. Using a drill, laser, or air abrasion instrument, our dentist will be able to remove decay and then fill it temporarily.

For your next appointment, we will be able to cement a new tooth into place. The area will need to be covered to restore your tooth's normal function and protect it to prevent further decay. Root canals are a treatment for teeth with extensive decay and it will require a crown to finish restoring your tooth.

We Can Help


If you fear getting a root canal you may want to delay your treatment but you do not want to wait until it is too late. Root canal alternatives are a dental implant, bridge, or a removable partial denture. The pain that you experience living with a decayed tooth is painful and should be treated right away.

Our dentists at Dental Expressions use local anesthetics so that you will have little to no pain during your root canal. Let us be your trusted care provider and consult with us now by calling (971) 353-4448
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Dental Expressions - Dr. Matthew M. Sheppard, 4200 SW Mercantile Dr. Suite #740, Lake Oswego, OR 97035, (971) 353-4448, dentalexpressionsonline.com, 11/15/2024, Associated Words: dentist Lake Oswego OR,