What is a Root Canal?
About 15 million teeth are saved every year with root canal treatment. A root canal is necessary when a tooth’s pulp becomes inflamed or infected. If pulp infection is left untreated, this can cause severe pain and lead to an abscess. While the perception that root canals are painful began decades ago, advances in dental technology have made root canals no more uncomfortable than having a cavity filled.
At Almaden Valley Smile Design, we strive to change patients’ thoughts about root canal treatment using technologies that enable a painless approach while alleviating dental anxiety. During a root canal in our San Jose, CA office, our dentist removes the infected pulp and nerve in your tooth root, cleans and shapes the inside of the root canal, and then fills and seals the space.
The Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
- Preserved natural tooth
- Resolved toothache
- Restored tooth function
- Improved smile aesthetics
What to Expect from Your Root Canal Treatment
When the pulp inside your tooth root becomes infected, the pulp and bacteria must be removed to save your tooth, oral health, and overall health. During a root canal in San Jose, CA, our dentist first numbs the treatment site with a local anesthetic. If you suffer from dental anxiety or need additional sedation, we offer diverse sedation options. Either way, you won’t feel any pain, although you may experience slight pressure as we complete the procedure.
We drill a small hole in your tooth crown to access the pulp chamber and carefully clean out all the bacteria and infected pulp and tissues. Then, we fill and seal the end with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Afterward, the tooth is restored with a crown or filling to protect it and restore normal function. We accept many insurance plans and offer third-party financing to ensure your treatment is both painless and affordable.
Signs & Symptoms You Need a Root Canal
- Severe tooth pain
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold food or drinks
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Tooth discoloration
- Loosening of the tooth
- Swollen, tender, or darkened gums
- Cracked or broken teeth
How to Prevent Root Canals
To prevent the need for a root canal, maintain consistent oral hygiene by brushing twice daily and flossing once a day. Avoid biting hard foods, especially with dental restorations, and wear a night guard if you grind your teeth. Use a mouth guard during sports, limit acidic and sugary drinks, and attend regular dental checkups and cleanings for early issue detection.
Prompt attention to tooth pain can prevent extensive procedures. After a root canal, follow proper aftercare by avoiding chewing on the treated tooth until fully restored, maintaining good oral hygiene, attending follow-up appointments, and contacting our office immediately if severe pain, swelling, or signs of infection occur.
