Root canal in Inglewood is a common, effective procedure to save severely damaged or infected teeth. Despite common fears, modern advancements make it relatively painless. Understanding what to expect can ease concerns and highlight the benefits, such as pain relief and restored dental health if your dentist recommends this treatment.
What is Root Canal Treatment?
A root canal, or endodontic therapy, treats infections in the tooth’s soft pulp caused by decay, repeated procedures, or damage. If left untreated, it can lead to severe pain and tooth extraction. The procedure removes infected tissue, cleans the tooth, and seals it to prevent future infection.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
- Severe tooth pain: Prolonged pain that worsens with chewing or applying pressure may signal pulp infection.
- Sensitivity to hot or cold: If your tooth is sensitive to temperature changes, especially lingering sensitivity after exposure, it could be a sign of nerve damage.
- Swollen gums: Swelling or tenderness around the affected tooth can indicate an underlying infection.
- Darkening of the tooth: Discoloration of the tooth can occur when the pulp becomes damaged.
- A pimple-like bump on the gums: This may be an abscess, a serious infection that requires immediate attention. It can often save you from serious treatments like root canal in Inglewood.
What to Expect During the Root Canal in Inglewood
Numbing the Area: Your dentist will begin by applying a local anesthetic to numb the affected tooth and surrounding area.
Cleaning the Infected Pulp: Once the area is numb, the dentist will create a small opening in the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals. The infected or damaged pulp is then removed using special tools, and the canals are cleaned thoroughly to eliminate bacteria and debris.
Shaping and Filling: After cleaning, the dentist will shape the root canals and fill them with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. This step helps prevent future infections by sealing the canals.
Restoring the Tooth: In most cases, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment will require a crown to protect and strengthen it. Your dentist may place a temporary filling or crown until a permanent restoration is ready.
How Root Canal Treatment Helps
Pain Relief: One of the primary reasons for undergoing a root canal is to alleviate the severe pain caused by an infected tooth. The procedure removes the source of the infection, allowing the tooth to heal and relieving discomfort.
Saving Your Tooth: It helps save your natural tooth, preventing the need for extraction. Keeping your natural teeth is important for maintaining proper chewing function, jawbone health, and the alignment of surrounding teeth.
Preventing Further Infections: By removing the infected pulp and thoroughly cleaning the tooth’s interior, a root canal prevents the infection from spreading to other teeth or areas of your mouth.
Restoring Function: After the process and placement of a crown, your tooth will function normally, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile without pain or worry.
Recovery and Aftercare
After the treatment, mild discomfort or swelling may occur for a few days but can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions, such as avoiding hard foods and maintaining proper oral hygiene. Most patients can resume normal activities the next day. Schedule follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure the tooth is fully restored.
At RNA Dentistry, the root canal in Inglewood is highly effective. It treats severe tooth infections and preserves your natural teeth. When our dentists recommend it, rest assured that the procedure is designed to relieve pain, restore function, and improve your overall dental health. With proper care, a tooth treated with this can last a lifetime, allowing you to smile with confidence again. To consult or book an appointment Now!