Root Canal Treatments

Root canal therapy is one of the most misunderstood procedures in dentistry. When performed correctly, it is not painful or dangerous. Just the opposite, it alleviates painful tooth problems while preserving the natural tooth. Dr. Nico offers this procedure at his offices in in Los Angeles and Whittier because it is far more conservative than the alternative, which would be extraction.

Understanding root canals

There is more to a tooth than meets the eye. Beneath layers of hard enamel and dentin is dental pulp, which contains soft tissue such as blood vessels and nerves. The pulp chamber branches into tiny canals that extend all the way to the tip of the root.

When pulp is injured or becomes infected, it can cause a variety of problems. Without treatment, the symptoms will worsen and infection is likely to spread to other teeth.

The most common symptoms include

  • Frequent toothaches
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Abscesses

Endodontics, more commonly known as root canal therapy, is a precision procedure that removes damaged tissue and infection. Dr. Nico numbs the tooth before treatment, and uses precision tools and gentle techniques, for a truly comfortable experience.

The pulp chamber and root canals are cleaned and sterilized, then filled with a special material that prevents bacteria from re-entering. The tooth is then restored with a dental crown, which protects it from further damage.

Prevention

The most common cause of a root canal infection is advanced decay. The vast majority of patients could avoid the procedure altogether with good hygiene habits and regular dental care. If you avoid cavities, or have them repaired as soon as they occur, you will probably never need root canal therapy.