Need A Root Canal?
A root canal is used to save an injured, decayed or cracked tooth when its pulp becomes infected or inflamed. This pulp is the soft tissue inside the root chamber. This should be treated promptly or it may result in an abscess infection or a very painful tooth. This is also known as endodontic treatment. This procedure is usually completed in two visits to your dentist. This depends on the treatment your dentist prescribes and if there is infection. After it is restored, it will function normally. Continue practicing good oral hygiene for the best potential for it to last a lifetime. For other services that we offer, check out our services page here.
What Are The Signs You May Need One?
Time to see your dentists in Whittier if you notice:
- Pain in the tooth or gums, discoloration, heat or cold sensitivity
- Your tooth is tender to the touch
- An abscessed (pus inside the jawbone tissue)
- Draining pus inside your mouth
- Tenderness and swelling of the lymph nodes below your jaw
Occasionally a root problem will have no warning signs. A routine dental checkup or xray will reveal certain damage.
The Endodontic Procedure
Your treatment includes removing of the dead or infected pulp along with the nerve ending (located in the root chamber). This pulp is then thoroughly cleaned, given medication, and sealed. Finally a crown is normally used to protect and give it strength. 
Root Canal Treatment?
After the dentist in Whittier reviews the x-ray, he will do a thorough examination of your tooth, your gums and the supporting bone structure. He will discuss a preferred root canal treatment plan, and answer any questions you may have.
If you need this procedure, you will get a local anesthetic in the surrounding area. A “dental dam” will protect the are from saliva and keep it clean during the procedure. A “dental dam” is a protective sheet used to isolate your tooth. Your tooth doctor will make an opening in the top. This opening will allow him to remove any soft pulp and nerve ending. He will then shape the interior and prepare it for filling or crown.
The canal is completely cleaned then medicated and filled with a rubber-like material that is bio-compatible. A temporary filling is placed on it. You will normally not feel any pain during the procedure but, you may feel a dull pain in that area for 2 or 3 days after the procedure. Finally on the next visit we will give you a permanent restoration, such as a crown. We will discuss and answer any questions you may have about root canal.
