Root Canals in Redondo Beach, CA
Root Canals
Severe tooth pain or infection inside a tooth may require root canal treatment to restore dental health and relieve discomfort. At South Redondo Dental Group in Redondo Beach, CA, Dr. Gregory Shvartsman provides root canal therapy to remove infection and preserve natural teeth.
Patients in Redondo Beach and the surrounding South Bay communities rely on root canal therapy to relieve pain and restore normal tooth function.
What Is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to remove infection from inside a tooth and protect it from further damage.
Inside every tooth is a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When this pulp becomes infected due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma, treatment is needed to prevent the infection from spreading.
During a root canal procedure, the infected pulp is removed, the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected, and the space is sealed to prevent future infection.
This process allows the natural tooth to remain in place while eliminating the source of pain and infection.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Certain symptoms may indicate that a tooth infection is present and root canal therapy may be necessary.
Common signs include:
• Persistent or severe tooth pain
• Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
• Swelling or tenderness in the gums
• Darkening or discoloration of a tooth
• Pain when biting or chewing
• A small bump or abscess near the gums
If you experience these symptoms, prompt dental evaluation can help prevent further complications.
The Root Canal Procedure
Root canal treatment is typically performed in a comfortable dental setting using local anesthesia.
During the procedure, the dentist creates a small opening in the tooth to access the infected pulp. The infected tissue is removed, and the root canals are carefully cleaned and disinfected.
After the canals are filled and sealed, the tooth is usually restored with a dental crown to strengthen and protect it.
The goal of root canal therapy is to eliminate infection while preserving the natural tooth structure.
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
Root canal treatment offers several important benefits for patients experiencing tooth infection.
Benefits may include:
• Relief from severe tooth pain
• Removal of infection inside the tooth
• Preservation of the natural tooth
• Restoration of normal chewing function
• Prevention of infection spreading to surrounding tissues
Saving the natural tooth with root canal therapy is often the best option for maintaining long-term oral health.
Using the best techniques
The American Association of Endodontists stays abreast of all research and can support the safety of this vital service. In fact, new techniques and materials make root canal treatment more successful than ever.
FAQs
Why would I need a root canal?
A root canal may be needed if the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, cracks, or trauma to the tooth.
The Root Canal Procedure
Modern root canal treatments are typically no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Local anesthesia is used to ensure the procedure is comfortable.
How long does a root canal procedure take?
Most root canal treatments can be completed in one or two appointments, depending on the severity of the infection.
What happens after a root canal?
After the infection is removed, the tooth is usually restored with a dental crown to protect it and restore its strength and function.