Root Canal

A root canal treatment repairs and saves a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected. Without treatment the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected and abscesses may form.

HOW IS A ROOT CANAL DONE?

This may take place in 1-2 visits. The dentist will administer a local anesthetic (Novocain) and place a protective shield over the tooth called a rubber dam. The dentist will then remove any decay as well as the inner nerve of the tooth. The tooth is disinfected and the inside of the tooth is shaped with special instruments called files. The space inside the tooth is then filled with a special dental material called gutta percha (or another suitable material). A temporary filling is then used to seal the tooth.

ARE ROOT CANALS PAINFUL?

Root canals are performed under local anesthesia and under normal circumstances should be painless. If you are told you have an infection and require a root canal do not wait to have the procedure completed. Teeth that are severely infected may be difficult to anesthetize and may make having a root canal uncomfortable or even painful.

CARE FOR TEETH WITH ROOT CANALS

Most teeth that have root canals require dental crowns to prevent them from breaking as well as to prevent any bacteria from leaking into the tooth. Should new decay or bacteria leak into the tooth, the tooth may be re-infected and the root canal may need to be redone. In more severe cases a surgery called an apicoectomy may need to be performed to remove the infection.

Signs and Symptoms You May Need a Root Canal:

Sensitivity to hot and cold that last more than a couple seconds
Swelling or abscess
Pain when chewing
Pain that keeps you awake at night or wakes you from sleep
A tooth that is dark or discolored compared with the surrounding teeth
Teeth that have a history or trauma
Many patients have no signs or symptoms, especially on teeth that are necrotic (dead)

If you are experiencing tooth pain or discomfort, a root canal may be necessary. Please call us immediately to schedule an appointment.

If you have questions regarding your oral health, or would like to schedule an appointment, please feel free to contact our Lancaster or Palmdale dental offices.

During your initial consultation, you will receive information about your dental health, including a diagnosis, as well as the treatment needed to correct the problem, any risks associated with the treatment, the cost of care, and the time required.

We believe that you deserve to be fully informed about your treatment plan from the beginning.

Make an appointment

Root Canal

Signs and Symptoms You May Need a Root Canal:

Star Bright | Lancaster

Star Bright | Palmdale

Important Links

Office Hours