Root Canal Therapy in McMinnville

What is Root Canal Therapy?

Root Canal Therapy, often referred to as a root canal, is a dental procedure designed to save a tooth that has been severely damaged or infected. The process involves removing the damaged area of the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting it, then filling and sealing it. The term “root canal” comes from the cleaning of the canals inside the tooth’s root. Dr. Frances Golly at All About Smiles in McMinnville, OR, is highly skilled in performing this procedure, which is crucial in preventing tooth loss and maintaining your natural smile.

The Root Canal Therapy Treatment Process

Root Canal Therapy is a multi-step process that involves diagnosis, preparation, cleaning, filling, and sealing. Each step is meticulously performed to ensure the tooth is saved and future dental complications are avoided.

Diagnosis and X-ray

Diagnosis and X-ray

The first step in the root canal process is a thorough examination of the tooth and surrounding tissue. Dr. Golly will use an X-ray to get a clear picture of the tooth and the root canals. This diagnostic stage is crucial to determine the extent of the tooth damage and infection and to plan the best course of action for treatment.
Anesthesia and Access

Anesthesia and Access

Before the procedure begins, local anesthesia is administered to numb the area and ensure the patient is comfortable. Once the tooth is numb, Dr. Golly will create an access hole in the tooth to reach the pulp chamber and root canals. This access allows for the removal of the infected or damaged tissue.
Cleaning, Filling, and Sealing

Cleaning, Filling, and Sealing

The infected pulp is removed, and the root canals are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to eliminate bacteria. After cleaning, the canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. The tooth is then sealed with a temporary or permanent filling to prevent reinfection.

Types Of Root Canal Therapy

There are two main types of root canal therapy: anterior and posterior root canals. Both are performed with the same goal in mind – to save the tooth and restore your oral health.

Anterior Root Canal

An anterior root canal is performed on the front teeth, also known as incisors and canines. These teeth typically have a single root canal, making the procedure relatively straightforward. Despite the simplicity, precision and care are paramount to ensure complete removal of infection and successful treatment.

Posterior Root Canal

A posterior root canal is performed on the back teeth, including premolars and molars. These teeth often have two or three root canals, making the procedure more complex. Dr. Golly’s expertise and meticulous approach ensure that each canal is thoroughly cleaned and sealed, preserving the tooth and preventing future infections.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain Veneers

Veneers that are custom crafted to each tooth provide an artist’s touch to your smile. Veneers can offer a solution for nearly any goal you hope to achieve for your smile. Today’s modern materials combined with our passion for cosmetic excellence result in a smile that will amaze you each time you look in the mirror.
Composite Fillings

Composite Fillings

Veneers that are custom crafted to each tooth provide an artist’s touch to your smile. Veneers can offer a solution for nearly any goal you hope to achieve for your smile. Today’s modern materials combined with our passion for cosmetic excellence result in a smile that will amaze you each time you look in the mirror.
Teeth Whitening

Teeth Whitening

Veneers that are custom crafted to each tooth provide an artist’s touch to your smile. Veneers can offer a solution for nearly any goal you hope to achieve for your smile. Today’s modern materials combined with our passion for cosmetic excellence result in a smile that will amaze you each time you look in the mirror.
Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain Crowns

Veneers that are custom crafted to each tooth provide an artist’s touch to your smile. Veneers can offer a solution for nearly any goal you hope to achieve for your smile. Today’s modern materials combined with our passion for cosmetic excellence result in a smile that will amaze you each time you look in the mirror.