Root canal therapy demystified

Dentist Inglewood

New Image Dental
1608 Centinela Ave, Ste 7, Inglewood, CA 90302
(310)216-9600
We Cater to Cowards!
Book Appointment Online

Root canal therapy, a term that might make some wince, is often misunderstood. For dental patients in Inglewood, misconceptions around this procedure might deter many from visiting a dentist. The aim is to debunk these myths and provide clarity on what root canal therapy truly entails. It’s essential to understand that with modern techniques, an experienced dentist, especially an affordable dentist in Inglewood, can make this procedure as seamless as possible.

What is Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy involves treating the inside of a tooth that is either infected, damaged, or dead. A tooth comprises enamel, dentin, and pulp. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When this pulp is compromised due to decay or injury, root canal therapy becomes necessary to save the tooth.

Common Myths and Their Realities

• Myth: Root canal therapy is painful.

  Reality: With advancements in dentistry, and especially with a dentist from New Image Dental in Inglewood, the procedure is as painless as getting a regular filling.

• Myth: It’s better to just remove the tooth.

  Reality: Natural teeth serve us best. Whenever possible, it’s preferable to keep your natural tooth.

• Myth: Root canals cause illness.

  Reality: There’s no scientific evidence linking root canal treatments to diseases in the body. In fact, the procedure prevents the spread of infections in the mouth.

The Benefits of Root Canal Therapy

• Natural Tooth Preservation: Root canal therapy often means your natural tooth can be preserved. This ensures your chewing remains efficient, and you retain a natural appearance.
• Infection Prevention: This procedure eliminates bacteria from the infected pulp, ensuring the surrounding teeth and gums are not affected.
• Cost-Effective in the Long Run: Root canal therapy might seem expensive initially, but it reduces the need for repeated dental work, making it an affordable solution in the long run. An affordable dentist in Inglewood will be able to guide you through the cost-benefit analysis.

The Process of Root Canal Therapy

Embarking on a journey to restore dental health often starts with understanding the procedures involved. Root canal therapy, although it might sound intimidating, is a straightforward and well-practiced dental intervention. Essentially, it’s about treating the inner sanctums of a compromised tooth to save its structure and function.

Like any journey, this therapy involves several steps — from diagnosis to restoration. Let’s demystify this process, giving you a clearer picture of what to expect when you sit in that dental chair.

1. Diagnosis and X-rays: The procedure starts with a thorough diagnosis, usually accompanied by X-rays to visualize the tooth’s structure.
2. Local Anesthesia: To ensure the patient feels no pain, a local anesthetic is administered.
3. Creating an Opening: An opening is made in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber.
4. Cleaning: The pulp chamber and root canals are cleaned meticulously to remove the infected or damaged pulp.
5. Filling and Sealing: Once cleaned, the space is filled and sealed to prevent any future infections.
6. Restoring the Tooth: Often, after a root canal, the tooth needs a crown or filling to restore its original function and appearance.

Aftercare and Recovery

After undergoing root canal therapy with a dentist from New Image Dental in Inglewood, it’s crucial to follow specific aftercare steps as well as the instructions you receive from your dentist:

Post-Procedure Sensations

It’s normal to feel some tenderness or slight pain, but it subsides quickly and can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers.

Follow-up Appointments

Regular follow-ups are essential to ensure that the tooth heals properly and there are no complications.

Care Practices

Continue with regular oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and using antiseptic mouthwash.

When to Consult a Dentist

Symptoms like severe pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discoloration of the tooth, swelling, and tenderness in the nearby gums are clear signs you may need a root canal. Regular check-ups, especially with an affordable dentist in Inglewood, can catch these issues early on.

Root canal therapy, when understood, becomes less daunting. By prioritizing dental health and seeking timely interventions, you can save both your teeth and wallet in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is root canal therapy the same as a root canal?

Yes, “root canal” is a shorthand term for “root canal therapy.”

How long does root canal therapy take?

Generally, it can take between 30 minutes to an hour, but it depends on the tooth’s complexity. Some require two or more visits.

Is root canal therapy good?

Absolutely! It’s a procedure designed to save a compromised tooth and prevent further infection.

What are the 3 stages of root canal treatment?

Cleaning the root canal, disinfecting it, and filling it.

What’s the most painful part of root canal?

With modern anesthesia and sedative/sleep dentistry, most patients feel minimal pain. Post-procedure, some discomfort is normal but manageable.

Why do root canals take 2 visits?

Not all root canals take two visits, but some might due to various reasons. The dentist might want to ensure the infection is entirely cleared before sealing, or the tooth might be complex, requiring more detailed work. Sometimes, a temporary filling is placed to settle the tooth before the final filling or crown is done.

Do I need a crown after a root canal?

Often, yes. A tooth that needed a root canal usually has a significant amount of its structure removed, making it weaker. A crown helps restore its strength and functionality.

What not to do after a root canal?

For a few days post-procedure, avoid chewing on the treated side, steer clear from very hot or cold foods, and avoid rigorous brushing or flossing around the treated area. Follow the specific guidelines given by your dentist at New Image Dental.

Do all root canals need a crown?

Not always, but most do. Front teeth, which don’t experience as much chewing pressure, might not always need a crown. However, molars and premolars, which bear the brunt of chewing, typically do.

Can I wait a month to get a crown after root canal?

It’s not advised. Waiting too long can risk the tooth breaking or becoming re-infected. It’s best to follow your dentist’s recommendations on timing.

How long do crowns last after root canal?

With proper care, crowns can last up to 15 years or even longer. The lifespan varies based on oral care practices, the material of the crown, and individual habits like grinding teeth.

Do all root canals eventually fail?

No, many root canals last a lifetime. However, like any medical procedure, there’s no 100% guarantee. Proper oral hygiene and regular check-ups with your dentist in Inglewood can ensure the longevity of your root canal treatment.