Over 15 million root canal procedures are performed each year in the United States, proving just how routine and effective they are. If you’re suffering from tooth pain or sensitivity, root canal therapy can eliminate infection and preserve your natural tooth with minimal discomfort.1.
To ease your fears, here are some facts about what goes on during a root canal, and what you can expect.
What is a root canal treatment?
A root canal is an endodontic treatment used to remove infected pulp (the soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels) from inside your tooth. Pulp is vital to the development of your tooth, but once your tooth is fully-grown, the pulp no longer serves an essential purpose. When your pulp is damaged, it can cause severe pain, infection, and abscess. A root canal treatment removes damaged pulp. Once the pulp is removed, the tooth is cleaned, disinfected, and sealed to prevent further issues. This procedure allows you to keep your natural tooth, avoiding extraction and more invasive alternatives.
Why would I need a root canal?
Root canal therapy is typically necessary when tooth decay, trauma, or extensive infection or inflammation have damaged the pulp. Signs you may need this treatment include:
- Persistent or severe pain when biting or chewing
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swollen, discolored, or tender gums
- Cracked or chipped teeth
What to expect during a root canal procedure
Root canals can be performed by general dentists or by specialists and may require multiple office visits to complete.
Diagnosis and Imaging: Your dentist will conduct a detailed exam and take digital X-rays to assess the condition of the tooth and plan the treatment.
Anesthesia for Maximum Comfort: Local anesthesia will be administered to ensure a comfortable, pain-free root canal experience.
Pulp Removal and Cleaning: After creating a small access opening in the tooth, the dentist will remove the infected pulp and thoroughly clean the canal using precision tools.
Sealing the Canal: The space is then filled with a rubber-like material called gutta percha and sealed to prevent reinfection.
Restoration: In most cases, a custom dental crown is placed to restore the tooth’s strength and natural function.
The exact process and the length of time it takes to complete the root canal will vary based on which tooth is being treated and the extent of the damage.
What happens after the procedure?
After your root canal, you may experience mild soreness and tooth sensitivity. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate any discomfort, and most patients return to normal activities within a day. Your restored tooth should look, feel, and function like any other tooth.
Can root canal therapy be avoided?
The best way to prevent root canals is to maintain strong oral hygiene: brush your teeth twice daily, floss regularly and schedule regular dental visits. Protective mouthguards during sports can also prevent trauma that might lead to pulp damage.
Trust Experienced Professionals in Gentle Root Canal Care
At Sedation and Implant Dentists, we’ve provided gentle, effective root canal treatment in southern California for over 48 years. Our experienced team uses state-of-the-art technology and personalized care to eliminate pain and restore your smile with confidence.
About Sedation and Implant Dentists
Sedation and Implant Dentists is a comprehensive dental implant practice located in San Gabriel, California (within Los Angeles County). We offer complete restorative implant services including single implants, multiple implants, full mouth implants and zygomatic dental implants.
Thomas Gonzales D.D.S. and Michael Chang D.D.S., are experts in delivering advanced dental implant solutions with sedation dentistry to alleviate dental anxiety for patients with complex dental needs. We have been helping individuals with missing teeth and significant dental decay regain their dental function and confidence by providing custom-designed dental implants for over 48 years.
Our dentists are member of several prestigious organizations, including: the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation and American Dental Society of Anesthesiology.
Sedation and Implant Dentists is located at 416 W. Las Tunas Dr. Suite 107, San Gabriel, CA 91776. Our office is open Monday – Friday from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm. Our website at https://SedationandImplantDentists.com.
1. American Association of Endodontists
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