May people are afraid of the pain of a root canal. However, they can be stressful and painful. Here at Dental Group of Simi Valley, we will make your visit as stress-free and pain-free as possible. If you suspect that you need a root canal, call us today to schedule your appointment.
Why are root canals performed?
Root canals are needed when the soft tissue and nerves inside a tooth become infected or damaged. When there is an infection or damage present, bacteria can begin to grow. This can lead to an abscess. Removing the soft tissue and nerves from the tooth will help save the tooth.
What is root canal treatment?
A root canal is a procedure that is used to repair and save an infected or damaged tooth. During the procedure, the pulp and nerves are removed. This allows you to save your tooth.
These are the steps of a root canal procedure:
- Local anesthesia will be administered.
- A dental dam will be inserted.
- A hole will be drilled in the tooth.
- The pulp and nerves will be removed.
- The inside of the tooth and canals will be disinfected.
- The canals will be shaped for the filling.
- A thorough cleaning will be performed to remove all debris.
- A temporary filling is applied.
- After your tooth and gum heal, you will have a second appointment.
- The temporary filling is removed.
- Gutta-percha, a rubber compound, is inserted into the root canals. A sealer paste is used to hold the gutta-percha in place.
- The permanent filling will be put in.
- We recommend that you have a crown installed after you have a root canal. A crown will strengthen the tooth and restore its shape.
Signs You Need a Root Canal
It may be difficult to know if you need a root canal when symptoms start to appear. This is because symptoms do not usually appear until the problem has become advanced. You may think that you have a toothache and need a filling. However, many times the problem has escalated, and a root canal is required to save the tooth.
Some of the common symptoms you may experience when you need a root canal are:
- a toothache
- constant throbbing
- sensitivity to heat and cold
- swelling of gums
- face is swollen
- tenderness
- an abscess
- cracked or chipped tooth
- decay
- pain with pressure
- discoloration
- fever
- bad breath
The Recovery Period
After the root canal, the tooth may be sensitive for a couple of days. Over-the-counter medication can be used to relieve the discomfort. You should be able to return to your regular activities the next day.
When eating after a root canal treatment, chew on the opposite side of your mouth until the root canal therapy is finished. To protect the tooth after the permanent filling has been put in place, have a crown installed. It will protect the tooth and make eating easier.
Practice good oral hygiene during and after the procedure. This helps the tooth and gum heal and prevents infection.
Preventing a Root Canal
The best way to prevent a root canal is by practicing good hygiene. Do not skip brushing or flossing. Brush your teeth in the morning and at night. Brushing after every meal is even better. Also, floss every day. Remember to replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. Use good toothpaste that includes fluoride. Do not chew on ice or hard foods, as these can break the tooth. Avoid foods that break down enamel such as colas and acidic foods. Have regular cleanings to maintain proper mouth health.
Benefits of a Root Canal
A root canal can help you get rid of unwanted pain, but that is not the only benefit of having a root canal performed. The advantages of a root canal is that it saves your tooth, gets rid of the pain, and stops the spread of infection. In the case of severe decay, a root canal can prevent degeneration of the jawbone. Root canals can enhance your oral health. This will leave your smile more visually appealing than having the tooth pulled, which could lead to other teeth shifting and becoming crooked.
Request a Consultation Today
If you believe that you need to have a 
root canal, call us today to schedule your consultation. A damaged or infected tooth needs to be treated right away. Ignoring the symptoms can lead to even more problems.
Dental Group of Simi Valley is conveniently located at 1720 E. Los Angeles Ave. Suite 202 Simi Valley, CA 93065. You can contact us at (805) 522-6020. We look forward to a pain-free treatment to give you the best smile and healthiest mouth.
