Root Canal Therapy in Encino, CA
A root canal is a highly effective treatment designed to save a tooth that’s become infected or severely damaged inside. Each tooth has a soft inner tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels that keep the tooth alive and healthy.
When the pulp becomes infected—often due to deep decay, a cracked tooth, or an injury—it can lead to persistent pain, swelling, or sensitivity. If the infection isn’t treated, it can spread and cause serious complications, including tooth loss.
During a root canal procedure, the infected pulp is carefully removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected, and the space is sealed to prevent future infection. This treatment not only relieves pain but also preserves your natural tooth, restoring comfort, function, and overall oral health.
How to Know If You Need a Root Canal
A root canal is often necessary when the inner pulp of a tooth becomes infected or inflamed. This typically occurs when decay has progressed deep into the tooth, or when a crack, chip, or injury allows bacteria to reach the pulp.
You may need a root canal if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent or severe tooth pain that doesn’t go away
- Discomfort when chewing or touching the tooth
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Swelling or tenderness around the gums
- Darkening or discoloration of the affected tooth
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to visit the dentist as soon as possible.
Who Is a Candidate for Root Canal Therapy?
Your dentist will evaluate your tooth and may take X-rays to determine if the pulp—the soft inner tissue—has become infected or exposed. When this happens, a root canal is often the most effective way to relieve pain and preserve your natural tooth.
Root canal therapy is a safe, routine procedure performed on patients of all ages. It helps restore comfort, protect your oral health, and prevent the need for an extraction or more complex treatments later on.
What to Expect During a Root Canal Procedure
The procedure begins by gently numbing the area with local anesthesia to ensure you stay completely comfortable. A small protective cover, known as a dental dam, is placed around the tooth to keep it clean and dry throughout the treatment.
Your dentist will then remove the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth to access the infected pulp. Using precise instruments, the pulp is carefully cleaned out, and the inside of the tooth is disinfected to eliminate bacteria. Once cleaned, the space is filled with a durable, protective material and sealed with a filling.
In many cases, a dental crown is placed afterward to strengthen the tooth and restore its natural shape and function.
Although the idea of a root canal can seem daunting, the procedure is safe, virtually painless, and highly effective at saving your natural tooth for many years to come.