Root canal therapy is a highly effective treatment used to save teeth that have become infected or damaged at the pulp level. At California Dental Group, we offer gentle and precise root canal therapy to eliminate infection, relieve pain, and preserve your natural tooth. If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain, sensitivity, or swelling, root canal therapy may be the solution to restoring your oral health.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a procedure designed to treat the inside of a tooth that has been infected or damaged. The “pulp” inside the tooth contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, which can become inflamed or infected due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma. If left untreated, this infection can spread and lead to abscesses, bone loss, and the need for tooth extraction.
During a root canal, the infected or damaged pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and sealed to prevent further infection. This treatment allows you to keep your natural tooth, avoiding the need for extraction.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Root canal therapy is often necessary when the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected or damaged. Common signs that you may need a root canal include:
- Severe tooth pain: Persistent pain that worsens when chewing or applying pressure.
- Prolonged sensitivity: Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers even after the source is removed.
- Swollen or tender gums: Swelling, redness, or tenderness near the affected tooth.
- Discoloration: Darkening or discoloration of the affected tooth.
- Abscess formation: A pimple-like bump on the gums near the infected tooth.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek dental care right away. Early treatment can help save the tooth and prevent further complications.
The Root Canal Process
Root canal therapy is typically completed in one or two visits, depending on the complexity of the case. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:
- Numbing the area: Local anesthesia is used to numb the tooth and surrounding area, ensuring a pain-free experience.
- Accessing the pulp: Your dentist will create a small opening in the tooth to access the infected or damaged pulp.
- Removing the pulp: The infected tissue is carefully removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected.
- Filling and sealing: Once the pulp has been removed, the tooth is filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to prevent further infection.
- Crown placement: In most cases, a dental crown is placed over the treated tooth to restore its strength and function.
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy offers several benefits, including:
- Preserving your natural tooth: Root canal therapy allows you to keep your natural tooth, avoiding the need for extraction.
- Relief from pain and discomfort: By removing the infected tissue, root canal therapy eliminates the source of pain and discomfort.
- Preventing further infection: Sealing the tooth prevents bacteria from entering the tooth and causing future infections.
Aftercare for Root Canal Therapy
After your root canal, it’s important to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing. You may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending follow-up visits will help protect your treated tooth and ensure long-term success.
Schedule Your Root Canal Consultation Today
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or other symptoms of infection, don’t wait—root canal therapy can save your tooth and restore your oral health. Contact California Dental Group at 800-407-0161 to schedule your consultation and find relief today.
Root Canals FAQs
What is a root canal?
Answer: A root canal is a dental procedure that gets rid of infected or damaged pulp from inside a tooth, cleans and seals the canal, and restores the tooth with a filling or crown.
When is a root canal needed?
Answer: A root canal is needed when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or inflamed, frequently due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, or trauma.
Is a root canal painful?
Answer: Root canal treatments are relatively painless with modern techniques and local anesthesia. Any discomfort experienced after the procedure can be taken care of with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long does a root canal take?
Answer: The dental procedure typically takes one or two visits, with each appointment lasting 60-90 minutes, depending on the severity of the case.
What happens after a root canal?
Answer: Once the procedure is done, your tooth may be sore for a few days, and you’ll need to stay away from chewing on that side until fully healed. Most teeth will ultimately need a crown to restore full function.
How do I care for my tooth after a root canal?
Answer: By maintaining good oral hygiene, and attending regular dental check-ups. Be sure to follow any specific aftercare instructions provided by your dentist to be able to fully heal your dental procedure.
