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Something is not right in your mouth. A severe toothache has developed, and the pain becomes worse when you bite down. Maybe a tooth has sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. You may have noticed swelling and tenderness in the gums or a tooth that is discolored. Maybe you have a persistent pimple on the gums. If you have any of these symptoms, root canal treatment may be necessary. Be aware that sometimes there are no symptoms.

Why is a Root Canal Needed?
If a tooth experiences deep decay, trauma, or multiple procedures, its dental pulp can become infected. The pulp is the area in the center of a tooth where the connective tissues, nerves, and veins are located. When the dental pulp becomes damaged, bacteria forms and multiplies in the pulp chamber. An abscess, which is a pus-filled pocket, may form on the root of the tooth. If this is not treated, swelling may occur in the head, face, and neck. Infection in the root canal can also cause bone loss in the tooth root. Drainage issues can also occur, which can cause a hole in the tooth.

What is Root Canal Therapy?
During a root canal, Dr. Thinh Ho will remove the infected dental pulp from the inside of the tooth. The tooth’s roots are then cleaned and sealed. In many cases, a dental crown will be placed to protect a tooth that has had a root canal performed on it. Root canal therapy can save the tooth.

We welcome you to contact Olympia Dental Group today to learn more about how a root canal in Lacey, Washington, can help you and to schedule a visit with our dentist.