Are you experiencing persistent tooth pain or discomfort? If so, you may need a root canal treatment. This common dental procedure is essential for saving and restoring an infected or damaged tooth.
At Dr. John Chaves’ dental practice in Woodland Hills, CA, you’ll find a compassionate and skilled dentist who can provide high-quality root canal treatment. While there’s a common misconception that root canal therapy is painful, modern techniques, sedation dentistry, and technology have made the procedure an easier experience for patients. We’re here to provide a comfortable treatment that stops tooth pain at the source.
Contact our Woodland Hills dentist today by calling 818-491-7294.
A root canal treatment is a dental procedure that removes infected or inflamed pulp inside a tooth. The pulp is the soft inner core that contains nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes damaged or infected, it can cause severe pain, swelling, and even tooth loss if left untreated.
Ignoring the need for a root canal treatment can lead to serious complications. An infected or inflamed pulp can spread the infection to other body parts, causing more severe health issues. Root canal treatment relieves pain and saves the natural tooth, preventing extraction or costly dental implants.
During a root canal procedure, our dentist creates a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber. They then remove the infected or inflamed pulp, clean the root canal system, and seal it with a rubber-like material, gutta-percha. Finally, the tooth is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling or crown to protect it from further damage.
Dr. Chaves will carefully examine your tooth and take X-rays to determine if a root canal procedure is necessary.
We’ll numb your tooth and surrounding area before administering dental sedation to ensure your comfort during the procedure. A dental dam (a small protective sheet) will be placed over the tooth to keep the area clean and dry.
Dr. Chaves will create a small opening in the top of your tooth to access the pulp chamber.
He’ll then remove the infected or inflamed pulp using specialized dental instruments.
The root canal system will be cleaned, disinfected, and sealed with gutta-percha.
Dr. Chaves will then place a temporary filling to protect the tooth until your next appointment. At your next visit, a permanent filling or dental crown will be placed to restore the tooth’s function and appearance.
After your root canal treatment, you may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity. Here are some tips for a smooth recovery:
Root canal treatment is often associated with discomfort, but modern techniques and anesthesia make the procedure relatively painless. Most patients report feeling little to no pain during the procedure, and any post-operative discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
The time required for a root canal treatment can vary with the complexity of the case and the number of root canals in the affected tooth. However, most root canal procedures can be completed within one to two appointments, each lasting approximately 60 to 90 minutes.
With proper care and maintenance, a root canal-treated tooth can last for many years, even a lifetime. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene, and avoiding excessive pressure on the treated tooth can help ensure the longevity of the root canal treatment.
Yes, root canal treatment is necessary when the pulp (the soft inner core of the tooth) becomes infected or inflamed. Without treatment, the infection can spread and lead to further complications, such as an abscess or the eventual loss of the tooth.
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or discomfort, don’t hesitate to seek professional dental care. Dr. John Chaves and his team in Woodland Hills, CA, offer high-quality root canal treatments in a comfortable and caring environment. By undergoing this important dental procedure, you can save your natural tooth and enjoy a pain-free, healthy smile.
Contact our Woodland Hills dental office today at 818-491-7294 to schedule your appointment.
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