Root Canal Therapy in Hillsboro, OR

Expert Endodontic Treatment at Eastwood Dental Care

Root canal therapy is one of the most misunderstood dental procedures, often associated with pain when it actually relieves pain. At Eastwood Dental Care in Hillsboro, Oregon, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) and our experienced team provide gentle, effective root canal treatment using advanced technology to save your natural tooth and eliminate infection. Our modern approach, combined with CEREC same-day crown capabilities, ensures you receive comprehensive care in fewer visits.

If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain, sensitivity to temperature, or have been told you need a root canal, call us at (503) 614-0198 to schedule a consultation. Early intervention can save your tooth and prevent more extensive treatment.

What is Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy, also called endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure designed to save a tooth that has become infected or severely damaged. The treatment involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp tissue from inside the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the root canal system, and then sealing it to prevent future infection.

Your tooth’s pulp is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. While the pulp is important during tooth development, a mature tooth can survive without it because the tooth continues to be nourished by the surrounding tissues.

The Root Canal System

Understanding your tooth’s anatomy helps explain why root canal therapy is necessary. Each tooth has one or more roots that anchor it to your jawbone. Inside each root is a canal containing the pulp tissue. Front teeth typically have one root, while molars can have three or four roots with multiple canals. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed, bacteria can spread throughout this canal system, causing pain and potentially leading to abscess formation.

When is Root Canal Therapy Needed?

Root canal treatment becomes necessary when the pulp tissue inside your tooth becomes inflamed or infected. Several conditions can lead to this situation:

Deep Tooth Decay

When a cavity penetrates through the enamel and dentin layers to reach the pulp chamber, bacteria can infect the nerve tissue. What starts as a simple cavity can progress to pulp inflammation if left untreated. This is why regular dental checkups are essential for catching decay early.

Cracked or Fractured Teeth

A crack in a tooth can provide a pathway for bacteria to reach the pulp. Cracks can occur from trauma, grinding habits, or biting on hard objects. Even hairline cracks that are barely visible can compromise the tooth’s internal structure.

Traumatic Injury

A blow to the mouth can damage the pulp even if the tooth doesn’t appear cracked or chipped. The impact can sever the blood supply to the pulp, causing it to die over time. This is why dental injuries should always be evaluated promptly.

Repeated Dental Procedures

A tooth that has undergone multiple fillings or other restorations may eventually develop pulp inflammation. Each time a tooth is drilled, there’s stress on the pulp tissue. While most teeth tolerate this well, some may eventually require root canal therapy.

Large Fillings

When a filling is very large and close to the pulp chamber, the remaining tooth structure may not adequately protect the pulp from temperature changes and bacteria. The pulp can become irritated and inflamed over time.

Symptoms That May Indicate You Need a Root Canal

Recognizing the warning signs of pulp damage can help you seek treatment before the infection worsens:

Severe Toothache

Pain when chewing or applying pressure to the tooth is a common sign. The pain may be sharp, throbbing, or constant. It often intensifies when lying down because increased blood flow to the head increases pressure inside the tooth.

Prolonged Sensitivity

Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers after the stimulus is removed indicates pulp inflammation. While brief sensitivity is normal, pain that continues for 30 seconds or more after drinking something hot or cold suggests pulp damage.

Tooth Discoloration

A tooth that becomes darker or grayish may have a dying or dead pulp. This occurs because the breakdown of pulp tissue can cause staining from the inside of the tooth.

Swollen, Tender Gums

Swelling near the affected tooth, sometimes with a pimple-like bump on the gums, indicates infection. This bump, called a fistula, allows pus to drain from the infection.

Persistent or Recurring Pimple on Gums

A fistula that comes and goes is a clear sign of infection. Even if it’s not currently painful, the infection requires treatment to prevent bone loss and tooth loss.

No Symptoms

Surprisingly, some teeth with dead or dying pulp produce no symptoms at all. These cases are often discovered during routine dental X-rays, which is another reason regular checkups are important.

The Root Canal Procedure: Step-by-Step

Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) performs root canal therapy with precision and care, ensuring your comfort throughout the process. Here’s what to expect:

Initial Examination and X-rays

Your appointment begins with a thorough examination and diagnostic X-rays. Digital radiographs allow Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) to assess the extent of infection, view the shape of the root canals, and check for signs of infection in the surrounding bone. We may also perform pulp vitality tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Local Anesthesia

Before beginning treatment, we administer local anesthesia to numb the area completely. Modern anesthetics are highly effective, and the root canal procedure itself is typically no more uncomfortable than having a filling placed. For anxious patients, we offer additional sedation options to ensure complete relaxation.

Isolation with Rubber Dam

A small protective sheet called a rubber dam is placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free of saliva during the procedure. This isolation is critical for successful treatment and prevents contamination of the cleaned canals.

Accessing the Pulp Chamber

Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) creates a small opening in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber. For front teeth, the access is made on the back surface. For molars, the opening is made on the chewing surface. This access point is carefully designed to be as conservative as possible while allowing complete access to the canal system.

Removing the Infected Pulp

Using specialized instruments, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) carefully removes the infected or inflamed pulp tissue from the pulp chamber and root canals. This process, called pulpectomy, eliminates the source of infection and pain.

Cleaning and Shaping the Canals

The canals are meticulously cleaned using small, flexible files that gradually increase in size. This process removes bacteria, debris, and infected tissue while shaping the canals to receive the filling material. We use advanced rotary instruments and irrigation solutions to ensure thorough disinfection.

Disinfecting the Canal System

Throughout the cleaning process, the canals are flushed with antimicrobial solutions to kill bacteria and dissolve remaining tissue. This irrigation is crucial for eliminating infection and preventing recontamination.

Filling the Canals

Once the canals are thoroughly cleaned, dried, and disinfected, they’re filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. This rubber-like material is placed with an adhesive cement to seal the canals completely, preventing bacteria from re-entering.

Temporary or Permanent Restoration

The access opening is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling. In many cases, we can place a permanent restoration immediately. The tooth will ultimately need a permanent restoration, typically a crown, to protect it and restore full function.

CEREC Same-Day Crown Placement

At Eastwood Dental Care, we’re proud to offer CEREC technology, which allows us to design, mill, and place your permanent crown in a single visit. After completing the root canal, we can immediately proceed with crown preparation and placement, eliminating the need for a second appointment and temporary crown.

Pain Management During and After Treatment

Contrary to popular belief, root canal therapy doesn’t cause pain; it relieves it. Here’s what to expect regarding discomfort:

During the Procedure

With modern anesthesia, you should feel no pain during the procedure. You’ll feel pressure and movement, but the tooth and surrounding area will be completely numb. If you experience any discomfort, let us know immediately so we can administer additional anesthetic.

Immediately After Treatment

Once the anesthesia wears off, you may experience mild tenderness or sensitivity for a few days. This is normal as the surrounding tissues heal from the infection and the instrumentation. The discomfort is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Managing Post-Treatment Discomfort

We recommend taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen as directed to manage any post-treatment soreness. Applying a cold compress to the outside of your face can help reduce inflammation. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the permanent restoration is placed.

When to Call

While some tenderness is normal, severe pain, visible swelling, or an allergic reaction to medication should be reported immediately. Call our office at (503) 614-0198 if you experience these symptoms.

CEREC Same-Day Crown Technology

One of the significant advantages of choosing Eastwood Dental Care for your root canal therapy is our CEREC same-day crown capability. Traditional root canal treatment requires a temporary filling or crown, followed by a second appointment weeks later for the permanent crown.

Benefits of CEREC Crowns

CEREC technology allows us to create your custom crown while you wait. Using advanced 3D imaging and computer-aided design and manufacturing, we can design and mill a precise, beautiful crown from a solid block of dental ceramic in about an hour. This means you leave our office with your root canal complete and a permanent crown in place, all in one visit.

Understanding the procedure helps patients feel more confident and prepared.

Now that you understand the benefits, let’s explore how the process works.

Strength and Aesthetics

CEREC crowns are made from high-quality dental ceramics that are both strong and natural-looking. The material closely mimics the appearance and strength of natural tooth enamel, providing excellent long-term results.

Success Rate of Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy is one of the most successful procedures in dentistry, with a success rate of approximately 95%. When performed by an experienced dentist like Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) and properly restored with a crown, root canal-treated teeth can last a lifetime.

Factors Affecting Success

Several factors contribute to successful outcomes:

The extent of infection before treatment plays a role. Teeth treated before infection spreads to surrounding bone have higher success rates. The complexity of the canal system also matters. Teeth with curved or narrow canals can be more challenging but are still highly treatable with modern instruments.

The quality of the final restoration is crucial. A well-sealed crown prevents bacteria from re-entering the tooth. Regular dental care and good oral hygiene help maintain the treated tooth and prevent future problems.

Long-Term Outlook

Studies show that teeth treated with root canal therapy and properly restored have survival rates comparable to natural teeth. Most root canal-treated teeth remain functional for decades, making this procedure an excellent investment in your oral health.

How Does the Process Work?

Now that you understand the benefits, let’s explore how the process works.

Step 1: Consultation
Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation where we discuss your concerns, evaluate your oral health, and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Step 2: Treatment Planning
Using advanced diagnostic technology, we create a detailed plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Step 3: Treatment
Our experienced team performs your procedure with precision and care, ensuring your comfort throughout the process.

Step 4: Follow-up
We monitor your progress and provide ongoing support to ensure optimal results and long-term success.

We believe in transparent pricing and flexible payment options.

We believe in transparent pricing and flexible payment options.

Cost of Root Canal Treatment

The cost of root canal therapy varies depending on which tooth is being treated and the complexity of the case. At Eastwood Dental Care in Hillsboro, root canal treatment typically ranges from $800 to $1,500.

Choosing the right dental practice makes all the difference in your treatment outcome.

Your choice of dentist significantly impacts your results and experience.

Cost Breakdown by Tooth Type

Front teeth (incisors and canines) are typically less expensive because they have a single root and canal, usually costing $800 to $1,000. Premolars, which have one or two canals, typically cost $900 to $1,200. Molars, with three or four canals and more complex anatomy, generally range from $1,200 to $1,500.

Crown Cost

The permanent crown needed after root canal therapy is an additional cost, typically ranging from $800 to $2,000 depending on the material and type of crown. CEREC same-day crowns offer excellent value by combining quality and convenience.

Insurance Coverage

Most dental insurance plans cover a significant portion of root canal therapy, typically 50% to 80% after deductibles. We work with all major insurance providers and will help you maximize your benefits. Our team will provide a detailed cost estimate before beginning treatment.

Financing Options

We offer flexible payment plans and work with healthcare financing companies to make your treatment affordable. Don’t let cost concerns prevent you from getting necessary treatment; untreated infection only becomes more expensive and complicated over time.

Root Canal vs. Tooth Extraction: Making the Right Choice

When faced with a severely infected or damaged tooth, you have two primary options: root canal therapy to save the tooth or extraction to remove it. Understanding the differences helps you make an informed decision.

Advantages of Root Canal Therapy

Saving your natural tooth preserves your natural bite and chewing efficiency. Natural teeth provide the best function and sensation. Root canal therapy maintains bone structure. When a tooth is extracted, the surrounding jawbone begins to deteriorate from lack of stimulation. Keeping the natural tooth preserves this bone.

From a cost perspective, while extraction may seem less expensive initially, the long-term costs of replacement options like dental implants or bridges often exceed the cost of root canal therapy and a crown. Root canal treatment is typically more cost-effective over time.

When Extraction Might Be Necessary

In some cases, extraction is the only option. These include teeth with vertical root fractures that can’t be repaired, insufficient tooth structure remaining to support a restoration, or advanced periodontal disease with severe bone loss. If the tooth cannot be adequately restored even after successful root canal therapy, extraction may be the better choice.

Tooth Replacement After Extraction

If extraction is necessary, the tooth should be replaced to prevent shifting of adjacent teeth and maintain proper bite function. Replacement options include dental implants, fixed bridges, or removable partial dentures. Each option has benefits and limitations that Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) can discuss with you.

What Can You Expect During Recovery? and Aftercare

Proper care after root canal therapy ensures the best outcome and helps your tooth heal properly.

Immediately After Treatment

Avoid eating until the numbness from anesthesia wears off to prevent accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. Once sensation returns, eat soft foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth until the permanent crown is placed.

Managing Discomfort

Take pain medication as recommended before the anesthesia wears off. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen are typically very effective. Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling if needed.

Oral Hygiene

Continue your regular oral hygiene routine, including gentle brushing and flossing around the treated tooth. Keeping the area clean promotes healing and prevents infection.

What to Avoid

Avoid chewing on hard, crunchy, or sticky foods with the treated tooth until the permanent crown is placed. Don’t use the treated tooth to bite directly into hard foods. Avoid smoking, which can delay healing and increase the risk of complications.

Follow-Up Appointments

If you received a temporary filling or crown, return for your scheduled appointment to have the permanent restoration placed. For patients who receive a CEREC crown the same day, a follow-up appointment may still be scheduled to ensure proper healing and bite alignment.

Long-Term Care

Once your permanent crown is in place, care for it as you would a natural tooth with regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. Root canal-treated teeth can develop decay just like natural teeth, so maintaining good oral hygiene is essential.

With proper care, your root canal-treated tooth should provide many years of comfortable function.

Benefits of This Treatment

Choosing the right treatment can significantly impact your oral health and quality of life. Here are the key benefits you can expect:

• Improved Function: Restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence
• Enhanced Aesthetics: Achieve a natural-looking result that complements your smile
• Long-lasting Results: Enjoy durable solutions designed to stand the test of time
• Better Oral Health: Prevent future complications and maintain overall dental wellness
• Increased Confidence: Feel good about your smile in social and professional situations

Did you know? Missing teeth can lead to bone loss in your jaw, but dental implants help preserve your bone structure.

Why Choose East Wind Dental Care

Choosing the right dental practice makes all the difference in your treatment outcome.

Experienced Expertise
Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) brings extensive training and years of experience to every procedure. His commitment to continuing education ensures you receive care using the latest techniques and best practices.

Advanced Technology
We invest in cutting-edge dental technology to provide more accurate diagnoses, more comfortable treatments, and better outcomes for our patients.

Patient-Centered Care
From your first phone call to your follow-up visits, our team prioritizes your comfort, convenience, and satisfaction. We take time to listen to your concerns and answer all your questions.

Comprehensive Services
As a full-service dental practice, we can coordinate all aspects of your care under one roof, providing continuity and convenience.

Community Trusted
Proudly serving Hillsboro, Beaverton, Aloha, Tanasbourne, and Orenco Station, we’ve built our reputation on exceptional care and lasting relationships with our patients.

Did you know? Modern dental technology allows us to plan your entire treatment digitally before we even begin.

Let’s address some frequently asked questions:

Many patients ask similar questions. Here’s what you need to know:

Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Therapy

How long does a root canal take?

Most root canal procedures take 60 to 90 minutes, depending on which tooth is being treated and the complexity of the canal system. Front teeth with a single canal typically require less time, while molars with multiple canals may take longer. At Eastwood Dental Care, our CEREC technology allows us to complete both the root canal and crown placement in one extended appointment.

Is root canal therapy painful?

Root canal therapy should not be painful. We use effective local anesthesia to ensure you’re completely comfortable throughout the procedure. Most patients report that having a root canal is no more uncomfortable than having a filling placed. The procedure actually relieves the pain caused by the infected pulp.

What if I delay treatment?

Delaying root canal therapy when it’s needed allows the infection to worsen. The infection can spread to surrounding tissues and bone, potentially leading to abscess formation, severe pain, and even systemic health issues. The tooth may eventually become non-restorable, requiring extraction. Early treatment provides the best outcome and prevents complications.

Can all teeth be saved with root canal therapy?

While root canal therapy has a 95% success rate, not all teeth can be saved. Teeth with vertical root fractures, insufficient remaining structure, or extensive bone loss may require extraction. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) will perform a thorough evaluation to determine whether your tooth is a good candidate for root canal therapy.

Will my tooth look different after treatment?

If a CEREC or traditional crown is placed, your tooth will look completely natural. We match the color and shape to your surrounding teeth. Some darkening may occur in teeth that receive only a filling rather than a crown, but this can be addressed with internal bleaching if desired.

How long will my root canal-treated tooth last?

With proper restoration and care, root canal-treated teeth can last a lifetime. The key factors are receiving a quality crown to protect the tooth, maintaining good oral hygiene, and attending regular dental checkups. Studies show that properly treated and restored teeth have excellent long-term survival rates.

Do I need a crown after root canal therapy?

In most cases, yes. Root canal therapy removes the pulp tissue, which provides moisture to the tooth. Without this internal moisture, the tooth becomes more brittle over time. A crown protects the tooth from fracturing and provides a strong, functional restoration. Front teeth with minimal damage sometimes can be restored with just a filling, but molars and premolars almost always require crowns.

Can a root canal be done in one visit?

Yes, most root canals can be completed in one appointment. At Eastwood Dental Care, our CEREC technology allows us to perform the root canal and place the permanent crown in a single visit, which is more convenient than traditional treatment requiring multiple appointments.

What are the alternatives to root canal therapy?

The only alternative to root canal therapy for a tooth with infected or inflamed pulp is extraction. While extraction eliminates the immediate problem, it creates the need for tooth replacement and leads to bone loss over time. Root canal therapy is almost always the preferred option when the tooth can be saved.

Is root canal therapy covered by insurance?

Most dental insurance plans cover root canal therapy at 50% to 80% after deductibles, as it’s considered a major restorative procedure. Coverage varies by plan, so we’ll verify your specific benefits and provide a detailed cost estimate before treatment. Our team works to maximize your insurance benefits and offers financing options for any remaining balance.

Schedule Your Root Canal Consultation in Hillsboro

Related Services

Explore our other dental services that may be of interest:

• Dental Crowns
• Emergency Dentist
• Sedation Dentistry
• Family Dentistry
• Dental Implants

If you’re experiencing tooth pain or have been told you need root canal therapy, don’t wait. Early treatment provides the best outcome and relieves your discomfort quickly. At Eastwood Dental Care, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) combines advanced technology with gentle, compassionate care to make your root canal experience as comfortable as possible.

Our CEREC same-day crown capability means you can complete your entire treatment in one visit, saving you time and eliminating the need for temporary restorations. We accept most insurance plans and offer flexible financing to make your care affordable.

Call us today at (503) 614-0198 to schedule your consultation. Our friendly team is ready to answer your questions and help you achieve optimal oral health. We serve patients throughout Hillsboro and the surrounding Portland metro area.

Don’t let fear or misconceptions about root canal therapy prevent you from getting the treatment you need. Modern root canal therapy is comfortable, effective, and can save your natural tooth for a lifetime. Contact Eastwood Dental Care today to take the first step toward a pain-free, healthy smile.