Root Canals: A Simple Procedure That Saves Your Natural Tooth
At Luzid Smiles, we understand that root canals are often misunderstood and intimidating dental procedure. However, with the proper information and care, root canals can provide significant pain relief and help preserve your natural teeth.
Endodontic therapy is often the last line of defense when it comes to saving teeth that are abscessed, dying, or severely decayed.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that involves removing the infected or damaged nerve tissue or “pulp” inside a tooth. This tissue contains nerves and blood vessels that keep the tooth alive. If the pulp becomes infected or damaged, it can cause pain and lead to serious dental problems such as tooth death or abscesses.
Root canal treatment involves removing the infected or damaged pulp, cleaning and shaping the hollow root canals, and sealing them off with a special dental material to prevent further infection.
When is a Root Canal Necessary?
Root canals are typically necessary when a tooth is infected, dying, or has a traumatized nerve. This can occur due to deep decay, visible abscesses, trauma to the tooth, or a deep crack or chip. Symptoms of a damaged or infected tooth include severe toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, swelling or tenderness in the gums, or a persistent bad taste or odor in the mouth. But in some cases, dying or abscessed teeth don’t hurt at all.
What are the Benefits of a Root Canal?
The primary advantage of a root canal treatment is that it allows you to preserve your natural tooth, rather than having it extracted. This is also important for maintaining the alignment and health of your other teeth. Additionally, a root canal can provide significant relief from pain and other symptoms associated with a damaged or infected tooth. Finally, root canal treatment is typically less invasive and has a shorter recovery time than a tooth extraction.
What to Expect During a Root Canal
Before your endodontic procedure, our dentist will take X-rays and administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the affected tooth. They will then make a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber. Using special tools, they will remove the infected or damaged pulp and clean out the root canals. Then, the canals will be filled with dental material and sealed off. Finally, our dentist in Whittier will place a filling or crown on top of the tooth to protect it and preserve its normal function.
After your procedure, you may experience some mild soreness or sensitivity, but this can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. You should avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the permanent crown is placed, which may require a separate appointment.
Caring for Your Teeth After a Root Canal
After a root canal, it is important to continue practicing good oral hygiene habits, including brushing twice a day and flossing daily. While the tooth is no longer alive, the tooth structures are still susceptible to infections if the area isn’t cleaned well. Regular check-ups with our dentist in Whittier can help ensure the long-term success of the root canal and prevent future dental problems.
Schedule Your Consultation
At Luzid Smiles, we understand that root canals can be intimidating, but we are committed to providing our patients with the information and care they need to make informed decisions about their dental health. We also offer in-house sedation to help you relax during your appointment.
If you are experiencing tooth pain or other symptoms of a damaged or infected tooth, contact us to schedule a consultation. Our experienced team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and helps you achieve a healthy, happy smile. Schedule a consultation today!
