Root Canals

A root canal is a dental procedure to remove infected or damaged tissue inside a tooth. The inside of a tooth contains a soft tissue called the pulp, which can become infected or damaged due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, cracks or chips in the tooth, or trauma to the face. If left untreated, an infected or damaged pulp can cause pain, swelling, and other serious oral health problems. During a root canal procedure, the dentist will numb the area around the tooth and then remove the damaged or infected pulp inside the tooth. They will then clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth and fill it with a unique dental material to seal it and prevent further infection. Sometimes, a dental crown may be placed over the tooth to provide additional support and protection. Contrary to popular belief, root canals are generally not painful. With modern techniques and anesthesia, most patients report little to no discomfort during the procedure. A root canal is often the best way to relieve the pain and discomfort associated with an infected or damaged tooth. After a root canal, practicing good oral hygiene and visiting the dentist regularly to ensure the tooth remains healthy and infection-free is essential. With proper care, a tooth that has undergone a root canal can last a lifetime.

Your tooth might have some sensitivity for a few days. This is normal. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers, or Dr. Nourian can prescribe more vital medication. If you have a temporary filling, don’t chew gum or eat hard-to-chew foods. You want to protect it from coming out. Call the friendly staff at Whittier Dental Center today or book your appointment online if you have symptoms that indicate you need a root canal.

Before your procedure begins, the Whittier Dental Center team numbs the area around the affected tooth, ensuring you don’t feel anything. They put a small layer of rubber around your tooth to keep it isolated and dry. To begin your root canal, your dentist makes a small incision in your tooth, making a pathway to the infected area. He clears away the unhealthy pulp and washes the area with water. During the final step, he seals your tooth with a permanent or temporary filling to protect it until you return for a permanent crown.

You may need a root canal if the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected or damaged. This can occur for a variety of reasons, including: Deep decay: If a cavity is left untreated for too long, it can reach the pulp inside the tooth and cause an infection. Repeated dental procedures: Teeth that have undergone multiple dental procedures, such as fillings or crowns, can become weakened and more susceptible to infection or damage to the pulp. Cracks or chips in the tooth: Trauma to the tooth, such as a sports injury or accident, can cause cracks or chips that expose the pulp to bacteria. Tooth grinding or clenching: Habitual teeth grinding or clenching can cause damage to the tooth's structure over time, making it more susceptible to infection or damage to the pulp. Gum disease: Advanced gum disease can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, exposing the roots and making them more susceptible to infection or damage to the pulp. Symptoms of a damaged or infected pulp may include severe tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, swelling or tenderness in the gums, and darkening or discoloration of the tooth. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to see a dentist as soon as possible to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment, which may include a root canal.