Root Canal in Woodland Hills, CA

The thought of needing a root canal can be a bit scary, but our highly skilled team is here to make it all smooth and comfortable for you! Root canal therapy is super important to rescue a tooth that’s in trouble. Check out this page for all the details on what happens during a root canal, why it’s a must-do, and what’s in store before, during, and after the treatment.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure used to treat infection or damage within the tooth’s pulp—the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. When this pulp becomes infected or damaged due to decay, trauma, or repeated dental procedures, a root canal is often needed to preserve the tooth.

Why Is Root Canal Therapy Necessary?

Root canal therapy is essential for several reasons:

• Pain Relief: It alleviates severe tooth pain caused by infection or inflammation.
• Tooth Preservation: It saves the natural tooth, preventing the need for extraction.
• Infection Control: It stops the spread of infection to surrounding teeth and tissues.

Symptoms Indicating the Need for a Root Canal

Recognizing the signs that indicate you might need a root canal can help you seek timely treatment. Common symptoms include:

• Severe toothache, especially when chewing or applying pressure
• Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
• Swelling and tenderness in nearby gums
• Darkening of the tooth
• Persistent pimples on the gums

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, scheduling an appointment with our experienced dentist in Woodland Hills, CA, at Woodland Hills Family Dentistry for a thorough evaluation is important.

The Root Canal Procedure in Woodland Hills, CA

Understanding the steps involved in a root canal can help ease any anxiety about the procedure. Here’s a detailed overview of what you can expect:

Initial Consultation and Examination

• Comprehensive Exam: Our expert dentist will perform a thorough examination, including X-rays, to assess the extent of the damage or infection.
• Treatment Plan: Based on the exam findings, we’ll develop and discuss a personalized treatment plan with you.

Anesthesia and Preparation

• Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the affected area, ensuring your comfort throughout the procedure.
• Isolation: A dental dam is used to isolate the tooth, keeping it clean and dry during treatment.

Removing the Infected Pulp

• Access Opening: An access hole is drilled into the tooth to reach the pulp chamber and root canals.
• Pulp Removal: The infected or damaged pulp is carefully removed using specialized instruments.
• Cleaning and Disinfecting: The inside of the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to eliminate bacteria and prevent further infection.

Filling and Sealing

• Filling the Canals: The cleaned root canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha.
• Sealing the Tooth: The access hole is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling to protect the tooth.

Restoration

• Permanent Restoration: In most cases, a crown or other restoration is placed over the treated tooth to restore its function and appearance. This step may occur during a subsequent visit.

Benefits of Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy offers numerous benefits, including:

Pain Relief

Immediate Relief: Eliminates the intense pain caused by pulp infection or inflammation.

Preservation of Natural Tooth

Avoids Extraction: It saves your natural tooth, maintains your smile, and avoids more extensive dental work like implants or bridges.

Improved Oral Health

Stops Infection Spread: This prevents the spread of infection to adjacent teeth and tissues, safeguarding overall oral health.

Aftercare for Root Canals

Proper aftercare is crucial for the success of your root canal therapy. Here are some essential tips:

Immediate Post-Procedure Care

• Pain Management: Use prescribed pain relievers or over-the-counter medications to manage any discomfort.
• Dietary Guidelines: Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the permanent restoration is in place.
• Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly but be gentle around the treated tooth.

Long-Term Maintenance

• Regular Dental Check-Ups: Schedule routine check-ups and cleanings to monitor the health of your treated tooth and overall oral health.
• Permanent Restoration Care: If a crown was placed, care for it by avoiding hard or sticky foods that could damage the restoration.

Addressing Common Concerns About Root Canals

Many patients have concerns about root canal therapy. Let’s address some of the most common ones:

Importance of Root Canals

A root canal is a procedure that removes the infected pulp from a tooth to prevent the complete extraction of that tooth. The pulp contains nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels. A cavity can cause an abscessed tooth which would require endodontic treatment to remove it. With no treatment, an abscessed tooth can continue to spread infection throughout the mouth and face and could even lead to a medical emergency. For this reason, it’s important to have your teeth checked by a dentist regularly.

Even if your tooth doesn’t hurt, you might need a root canal. Because the nerve of your tooth is compromised, it may not relay symptoms properly. You could have a severe infection or dying tooth without ever feeling a thing.

Cost of Root Canal Treatment in Woodland Hills, CA

A root canal treatment costs as much as a crown or bridge but can save you thousands of dollars in added fees related to extraction and future tooth replacement. Especially considering that an endodontically-treated tooth can last for decades after the procedure. A root canal is your tooth’s last hope of avoiding an extraction. Depending on which tooth needs treatment and the number of roots it has, a typical root canal costs anywhere between $500 to $1500. To reduce your out-of-pocket expenses, we will work with your insurance carrier to maximize the benefits you have available. Flexible payment plans are also available.

Preserve Your Natural Teeth

Experiencing symptoms that point to a potential root canal? Swift treatment can rescue your tooth and ease discomfort. At Woodland Hills Family Dentistry, we’re dedicated to offering caring and reliable services to support your oral wellness. Reach out today to book your consultation. Let Woodland Hills Family Dentistry assist you in gaining a pain-free, radiant smile!

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On This Page

• What Is a Root Canal?
• Why Is Root Canal Therapy Necessary?
• Symptoms Indicating the Need for a Root Canal
• The Root Canal Procedure in Woodland Hills, CA
• Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
• Aftercare for Root Canals
• Addressing Common Concerns About Root Canals
• Importance of Root Canals
• Cost of Root Canal Treatment in Woodland Hills, CA

Related Topics

• Dental Fillings
• Dental Crowns
• Tooth Extraction

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Definition of common root canal terminology

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Hear From Our Patients

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Helpful links: WebMD (Root Canal Therapy) | ADA (Glossary of Dental Terms)