While we perform many dental procedures at our office, the treatment with the worst reputation is the root canal. Although it is common to try and ignore the reputation of the root canal, we believe that patients do much better if we give them a brief history of the root canal.
In the past, the ability to numb a patient before a root canal was not efficient. While this is understandable when you consider the fact that the nerves and blood vessels around the site of the root canal are dead or dying, the knowledge of this does not improve the fear. Additionally, our dentist in Encino wants our patients to understand the details of the root canal. We find that our patients who are well informed tend to have an easier time with the procedure. To begin, not all our patients know what happens during a root canal or why they need to have this treatment. A root canal is a dental procedure that saves a tooth from extraction. Our dentist recommends this treatment for patients who have a tooth damaged internally. Inside the tooth, you would find a substance called pulp. The pulp holds the blood vessels and nerves. A tooth with a crack or a cavity is at risk for bacteria entering the tooth and infecting the pulp. Infected pulp is rotting, and it cannot heal itself. This rotting and infection typically causes excessive pain and brings the risk of the infection spreading to other teeth. Patients often have excessive discomfort and are at risk of tooth loss and the infection spreading. A root canal will remove the dead and dying pulp from the tooth. After numbing your mouth, our dentist removes the dead pulp and fills the area within the tooth with a material called gutta–percha. The tooth is permanently sealed. Our dentist may opt to fit you with a crown to provide cover for the tooth. You are under local anesthesia during the root canal, and you will feel no pain. Once the procedure is complete, you go home to rest for at least 24 hours. If you can make time for a more extended rest that is a good idea. While no one likes to have a root canal, our dentist does everything possible to keep you comfortable.
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5/16/2017 0 Comments When a Root Canal is NecessaryA root canal is needed when the pulp of the tooth is inflamed or infected. During the procedure, the nerve and other soft tissues of the tooth are removed, and the root canals are sealed to protect against further infection or damage. Only a dental professional can tell you if you need a root canal, but a few symptoms can indicate that one may be needed.
You might need a root canal if you have: • Pain, including mild or severe pain that gets worse when you bite down or let up pressure on the tooth • Pain that worsens when you change posture • Pain that throbs • Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures • Swollen or tender gums near the tooth, especially near the roots of the tooth • A tooth that suddenly changes color These symptoms can also indicate other dental problems, so you need to schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible. We will evaluate the tooth and take dental X-rays to diagnose your problem, and then we will explain your treatment options. If an emergency root canal is needed, we may start it right away in order to relieve your discomfort and protect your dental health. Call our endodontics expert today to learn more about the symptoms that indicate a root canal may be needed or to schedule your consultation. 4/11/2017 0 Comments Root Canal TreatmentThere are many different elements of our teeth and mouths. The teeth have insides that need to be in as much good health as their outsides. Endodontics deals with this inner area of the teeth, diagnosing and treating problems as they arise.
If decay is left untreated and develops past the outer layer, the tooth’s pulp will become infected. The pulp is comprised of connective tissues, blood vessels, and nerves. The nerves being affected is what often causes pain during this issue. A tooth infection can only be treated with root canal therapy. Our dentist in San Francisco will create a hole in the tooth in order to access the inner pulp. They will then use a tool to remove all of the infected tissue. This tissue will then be replaced with a dental packing material called gutta percha. Finally, the area will be closed off and the tooth will be restored with a crown. While many believe that this process is painful, it is actually used to eliminate the pain of infection. Tooth infections cannot go away on their own. They can only be treated with root canal therapy. If you are experiencing pain in a tooth, visit our endodontist for diagnosis. |
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