Root canal therapy can treat and preserve natural teeth affected by deep tooth decay, infection, inflammation, or traumatic injury. The treatment focuses on removing the compromised tissue within the tooth, protecting surrounding teeth, and maintaining long-term oral health. That way, patients can avoid having to go through the trouble of getting tooth replacements that require additional procedures and healing times. Nevertheless, knowing what to expect during root canal therapy can demystify the procedure and highlight why it would be necessary.
An endodontist typically recommends root canal therapy when the soft tissue inside a tooth (the pulp) becomes inflamed or infected. This may occur as a result of deep cavities, cracks, chips, or trauma that exposes the inner tissue to harmful bacteria. Symptoms often include:
An untreated infection in the tooth pulp can spread to surrounding tissues and cause more severe health complications. In the worst cases, it could necessitate tooth extraction. Conversely, root canal therapy offers a less invasive approach to eliminating the infection, alleviating pain, and preserving the natural tooth.
Root canal therapy is a straightforward process that involves several key steps to ensure the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, sealed, and protected against future infections. These steps are as follows:
The process begins with a comprehensive examination by an endodontist. Diagnostic tools, such as X-rays, are used to identify the extent of damage or infection and to map the shape and length of the root canals. The endodontist will ask about medical history, allergies, and medications to ensure patient safety.
Modern pain management techniques have made root canal therapy much less intimidating than its reputation might suggest. An endodontist will likely use local anesthesia and a topical numbing gel to make the procedure virtually painless. Most patients report that the experience feels no different from getting a standard dental filling.
The first step of root canal therapy involves accessing the tooth's inner chamber. The endodontist creates a small opening on the surface of the tooth to reach the infected or damaged pulp. They will then remove the compromised pulp and clean out the canals with specialized instruments.
Next, the endodontist will shape the canals to prepare them for the filling material. The cleaning and shaping process may take longer for teeth with multiple canals, such as molars.
The next step is to fill the tooth with a biocompatible material, typically gutta-percha, to seal it against new bacteria. The endodontist will then place a temporary filling over the opening. This protects the tooth while the patient waits for a permanent restoration, such as a dental crown. The final restoration enhances the tooth’s strength, function, and appearance.
Root canal therapy is a reliable and routine procedure that can save natural teeth and significantly improve oral health. Addressing infections at their source helps alleviate pain, prevent further complications, and restore functionality to the affected tooth. Contact our Northridge endodontist today for more information.
Request an appointment here: https://www.mirrorcosmeticdentistry.com or call Mirror Cosmetic Dentistry at (818) 739-8955 for an appointment in our Northridge office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Root Canal Therapy in Northridge, CA.
A broken dental crown is often a sudden issue. Dental crowns are permanent dental restorations. A crown may dislodge because of an injury, an accident, wear, or even old age. The dentist will determine if your crown needs repairs or a replacement. If you want to know what the dentist does to repair or replace…
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth, cosmetic dental services can be a game-changer. These treatments go beyond just improving aesthetics; they can enhance both your oral health and smile quality. If you are still on the fence about receiving a cosmetic dental service, here are six reasons to take the first…
Cosmetic dental services are procedures people turn to when they want to improve the way their smile looks. Dentists can do various things to improve smile color, alignment, and proportions. This means those unhappy with their smile can do something about it. If you have considered cosmetic dentistry but want to know more, here is…
Professionals who perform cosmetic dental services know that a confident smile is a universal symbol of health and happiness. Unfortunately, many people experience teeth discoloration and staining over time. This is where teeth whitening, a widely sought-after cosmetic dental service, can help. This review discusses teeth whitening, including the different methods, benefits, and processes and…