Root canal treatment for saving natural teeth
If you are experiencing a severe toothache and require immediate dental care, our team at Pleasant Hill Dental can assist by performing necessary treatments. Necessary treatment may include root canal therapy, which is a way of rescuing an infected or damaged tooth that might otherwise need removal.
What is root canal therapy?
Root canal therapy, also called endodontic treatment, is a procedure performed on a tooth with a severe toothache, infection, or severe tooth decay that risks removal. Root canal therapy is performed to save the tooth and avoid extraction, allowing the natural tooth to remain in place after treatment.
What are the signs that I may need root canal treatment?
- Sensitivity with hot and cold foods and beverages
- Swollen, tender gums around the problem tooth
- Severe toothache and pain, especially when chewing or biting food.
- Visible darkening or decay on the tooth or gums
What can I expect from root canal therapy?
- Examination. Using high-precision 3D X-ray equipment, Dr. Cheng Zhu will evaluate the tooth and determine if it would benefit from endodontic therapy.
- Preparation. Local anesthetic and sedation are used to ensure you are comfortable during your procedure.
- Removal. The infected area is accessed through the tooth, and the infected tissue and dental pulp are removed.
- Sealing. After the infected pulp tissue is removed, the canals are filled and strengthened using a special filling called gutta-percha and composite resin.
- Protection. Root canal therapy can leave a tooth weak and brittle, so an additional appointment is made to place a crown over the treated tooth.
Root canal aftercare instructions
Dr. Cheng Zhu will provide you with the information you need to maintain your oral health and reduce the risk of complications following root canal therapy. It is essential that you follow these guidelines and recommendations to keep your smile healthy after the procedure.
Don’t wait to get the care you require!
If you require root canal treatment, the longer you delay the procedure, the more likely you will experience failed endodontic therapy or the need to extract the tooth permanently. Make the right choice and call Pleasant Hill Dental today to get in for your necessary dental work. We are located at 1894 Contra Costa Boulevard in Pleasant Hill, California, and can be reached by calling (925) 693-7077 for an appointment.
Root canal therapy is a very common procedure. It has a reputation of being undesirable and painful. But when done properly it is actually painless. Every tooth in your mouth is composed of a crown and a root. When a cavity or bacteria penetrates the tooth, the root and its nerves become irritated. As a result, the bacteria within the pulp cavity needs to be removed and cleaned in order to restore the tooth to its healthy state. Following the procedure, the tooth is fragile and consequently is restored with the natural crown for a lifetime of durability. Root canals have a success rate of 95% or greater. Most root canal are diagnosed by patients’ sensitivities to a specific tooth. Be sure to consult your dentist any symptoms or discomfort occur.
FAQs
Why do I need a root canal?
A root canal is recommended when the soft tissue of a tooth, referred to as pulp, becomes inflamed or infected. Damage to a tooth’s pulp can be due to extensive decay, physical trauma, or continued dental work on the tooth. Without treatment, the infection will likely spread, leading to pain, swelling, and potentially leading to tooth loss. A root canal preserves your natural tooth by removing the infected tissue, cleaning the root canal, and sealing the space. The goal here is to prevent additional infection.
Can I have my tooth extracted instead of getting a root canal?
While tooth extraction is an option, preserving your natural tooth with a root canal is usually preferred. Keeping your tooth helps maintain proper bite function, prevents shifting of surrounding teeth, and avoids the need for additional procedures like implants or bridges. Dr. Cheng Zhu will assess your situation and recommend the best option, but saving your tooth is often the healthier and more cost-effective long-term solution.
Are root canals dangerous?
Root canals are a safe and common dental procedure. Advances in technology and anesthetics have made them much more comfortable than their reputation suggests. The procedure eliminates infection and saves the tooth, preventing further complications. When performed by an experienced dentist like Dr. Cheng Zhu, root canals have a high success rate and can effectively restore the health and function of your tooth.
What can happen if I choose not to get a recommended root canal?
If you ignore a recommended root canal, the infection in your tooth can worsen, leading to severe pain, abscess formation, and potentially spreading disease to surrounding tissues or even other parts of the body. Untreated infections can also lead to tooth loss. Delaying treatment can result in more extensive and costly procedures later, such as tooth extraction or dental implants.
Is a root canal a permanent solution?
A root canal is generally a permanent solution for treating an infected or damaged tooth. Once the infected pulp is removed and the tooth is sealed, it can last a lifetime with proper care. However, you may need a dental crown to strengthen and protect the tooth. Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental checkups with Dr. Cheng Zhu will help ensure the long-term success of your root canal.
What material is being removed from within my tooth during a root canal?
The diseased or damaged pulp inside your tooth is extracted during a root canal. Once the tooth is fully matured, the pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, is no longer required for the tooth to function. Following extraction, the tooth’s interior is carefully cleaned and sanitized before being filled with gutta-percha, a biocompatible substance, to seal and safeguard the region.
Are the horror stories I’ve heard about root canals true?
No, many horror stories surrounding root canals are outdated or exaggerated. Thanks to modern dental technology and anesthetics, root canal procedures are now relatively quick and painless, often no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Dr. Cheng Zhu takes every step to ensure comfort during the procedure, and most patients feel relief from their symptoms afterward.
How long will recovery from a root canal take?
Recovery from a root canal is typically quick, with most patients returning to normal activities within a day or two. Mild soreness or discomfort is common but can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Dr. Cheng Zhu may recommend avoiding chewing on the treated tooth until a permanent crown is placed. Proper care, including regular brushing, flossing, and follow-up visits, will ensure a smooth recovery.
