Root Canal Therapy in La Jolla & Poway
Home > Endodontics > Root Canal Therapy
Root canals are among the most misunderstood dental services, often associated with pain and discomfort. However, this common belief couldn't be further from the truth. In reality, root canal therapy is a procedure aimed at relieving pain and toothaches caused by infections inside the tooth.
When tooth decay extends deep enough to reach the tooth pulp, infections can occur if the decay-causing bacteria infect the pulp. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissues, leading to abscesses and other unpleasant conditions.
What is a root canal?
Root canal therapy, also known as endodontics, focuses on the inside of the tooth. Within each tooth lies a hollow space occupied by the tooth pulp, which is responsible for detecting heat and cold sensations and essentially keeps the tooth "alive." A root canal becomes necessary when the tooth pulp becomes infected or dies.
The signs and symptoms of a tooth in need of a root canal may include pain, abscesses, and swelling. However, in some cases, there may be no obvious symptoms, highlighting the importance of regular dental check-ups. Dentists are trained to spot warning signs that patients may not notice.
Procedure Overview
Root canal therapy involves creating a small opening in the tooth, removing the infected or dead pulp through this opening, and then resealing the tooth.
The procedure begins with the dentist administering local anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding area. The tooth is isolated with a rubber dam, a small latex sheet designed to keep the tooth clean and free from contamination. Using a dental drill, a small access cavity is created on the tooth's surface.
This access cavity allows the dentist to remove the infected pulp and thoroughly clean the inside of the tooth using dental files. These files, resembling pins, cause no pain due to the local anesthesia. The dentist periodically flushes the cavity with a cleaning solution to ensure all contaminants are removed.
The cleaning and filing process widens the cavity, creating space for the filling material that seals the root canal. Dentists use gutta-percha, a natural rubbery substance, for this purpose. After filling the canal, a temporary filling is placed on top to protect the tooth until the next appointment to permanently seal it. During this time, special care and caution are necessary to avoid damaging the temporary filling and prevent reinfection.
Aftercare
In most cases, a root canal procedure removes enough tooth material to necessitate a dental crown to restore the tooth. Fillings can be used in milder cases, but only for front teeth, as they cannot withstand the pressure required to support a molar that has undergone a root canal.
Once you receive your permanent restoration, treat your tooth like the rest of your teeth. Though a crown or filling provides superior strength and structural support, maintaining rigorous oral hygiene remains essential for the success of the root canal. Proper home care is the key to ensuring a future free of root canals and enjoying a lifetime of healthy teeth.
Call now or book an appointment online today!
Appointments 8am-8pm
Contact
Quick Information
About
At Wellness Dental Group, we take pride in setting ourselves apart from other dental practices in La Jolla and Poway.
Our commitment to the community extends beyond dental care, as we consider ourselves part of a network of caretakers who prioritize the health and well-being of our friends and neighbors in La Jolla, Poway, and the surrounding areas. As a locally-owned practice, we are part of a legacy of providing top-quality general dentistry.