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Existing Patients: (317) 890-4455

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Indianapolis, IN 46229

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Dentist in Indianapolis explains the importance of safe root canal services

Do you have the following symptoms?

Safe Root Canal Services in Indianapolis, IN area
  • Persistent/throbbing toothache
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold
  • Pain when eating
  • Fever
  • Swelling of the face or cheek

If so, you could be exhibiting signs of tooth infection. When left untreated, the condition can lead to loss of gum tissue, bone, and eventually the natural tooth. At Washington Street Dentistry in Indianapolis, IN, we provide safe root canal services for individuals who have severely decayed or infected teeth. Root canals are an effective procedure to eliminate the infection and repair the natural tooth structure, preventing the need for extraction.

Root canal services from gentle dentist in Indianapolis, IN

Root canals are a common dental procedure performed to remove the inner pulp and nerves of the tooth and then clean out and seal the inside of the tooth. To understand more of the procedure, let’s look at what makes up a tooth.

Natural teeth are made up of several different parts:

CrownTop visible portion of the tooth

Enamel – Hard, mineralized outer layer of the tooth.

Dentin – Layer of calcified tissue underneath the enamel, covering the pulp.

Pulp – Soft tissue layer inside the tooth where the nerves and blood vessels are located.

Root – Part of the tooth that is embedded into the bone to hold the tooth in proper position.

CALL OUR OFFICE FOR MORE INFORMATION

New Patients: (317) 333-6788

Existing Patients: (317) 890-4455

Early cavities typically do not have many symptoms, which is why many patients first find out about a cavity at the dentist office. When this happens, the dentist is usually able to clean out the decay and restore the tooth with a simple, tooth-colored filling. However, when the decay is left untreated it will continue to get larger and begin causing symptoms. When this occurs, your dentist may recommend a root canal to save the tooth.

Deep decay is not the only reason for pulp injury. Failed restorations and trauma can also lead to the need for a root canal.

How the root canal procedure works 

During a root canal, the dentist will access in the inner pulp of the tooth by drilling a tiny hole. The damaged pulp is removed, and the root canals are then cleaned and filled with a rubber like material and then sealed. Once the procedure is complete, the treated tooth is often covered with a dental crown to prevent further damage. Crowns can be color-matched to look and function like a natural tooth. The procedure is done in office under local anesthesia and has a success rate of around 90%.

Debunking the myths about root canal services

Smiling girl in dentist chair

At Washington Street Dentistry, we understand that there are many misconceptions thatsurround root canal treatment. We want to ensure that all our patients understand that the procedure is safe and effective so we’re debunking the following myths.

Myth # 1 – Root canals are painful

Root canals can be compared to having a standard filling. The procedure is done under local anesthetic and is virtually painless. In fact, root canals remove the damaged pulp that causes intense toothaches, which means the procedure relieves pain.

Myth # 2 – Extraction is better than a root canaltreatment

There are no substitutes for the natural teeth and if it’s possible, it’s always the best course of action to save the natural toot. Natural teeth allow you to eat properly, receive proper nutrition, and protect oral health.

Myth # 3 – Root Canals are expensive

While there is a cost associated with root canals, the alternative is much more expensive. If a tooth is extracted or falls out, restorations such as dental implants can become quite costly.

Contact us today to find out more about safe root canal services

At Washington Street Dentistry in Indianapolis, we are committed to helping our patients improve their oral health through our full range of services. From routine exams and cleanings to safe root canal services, we can make sure that your smile looks and feels great. If you are currently in pain from an infection, it’s important to seek treatment. Delaying treatment can result in more pain, more costly services, and more time in the dentist’s office. Call our office today at (317) 333-6788 to book an appointment and find out if root canal therapy can alleviate your pain.

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Washington Street Dentistry
Dr. Matthew Church

Dr. Matthew Church image
A graduate from the University of Kentucky, Dr. M Church has an extensive amount of skill and expertise in the field of professional dentistry. With over 20 years of experience, he is a firm believer in providing his patients with the best possible care for their dental concerns. Whilst being educated and experienced in a multitude of dental services, Dr. Church is particularly proficient in the areas involving Invisalign, for which he is a certified provider, cosmetic dental services, and dental implants.

Dr. Church invests both time and resources in educating and maintaining his standard of quality in terms of his service. He undertook and graduated from the Misch International Implant Institute Surgical Program and maintains active membership with the American College of Oral Implantology. He is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.

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The only dentist in 31 years that makes me feel somewhat at ease. I still cry but they never make me feel rediculous (even when I know I am) 🙂 highly recommend. My bf now goes here as well as two of my best friends and a co-worker!

For your general, cosmetic, and emergency dental needs, visit

Washington Street Dentistry

in Indianapolis.