Root Canals

Root canals are common, as nearly half of adults in the United States have undergone this procedure. At My Tooth Place in Westminster, California, Aury Arroyo-Lourenco, DDS, offers root canals to save an infected tooth from falling out or needing extraction. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or booking a visit online today to determine if you need a root canal.

What are root canals?

Root canals are dental procedures designed to treat an infection on the inside of your tooth, or its pulp. Dr. Arroyo-Lourenco can remove the pulp, clean the area, and fill it to avoid dental complications. Root canals at My Tooth Place are painless and highly effective. See Dr. Arroyo-Lourenco at the first sign of tooth pain, sensitivity, or visible tooth damage. 

Why might I need a root canal?

You might be a candidate for a root canal if you have severe tooth decay, a deep cavity, a crack in your tooth, or an infection inside of your tooth. If your tooth concerns aren’t severe, you might simply need a filling or a dental crown. In very severe cases, tooth extraction may be necessary.

Your provider discusses your symptoms and oral health history, examines your teeth and gums, and reviews the results of your dental X-rays to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. 

What are the possible signs of needing a root canal?

Signs you may need a root canal include:

• Darker tooth coloring
• Pus in the gumline
• Pimple on your gums
• Swollen jaw
• Loose tooth 
• Tooth, jaw, or face pain
• Tender or swollen gums
• Pain when chewing

The earlier you seek treatment for a toothache, the better chance your dentist has to save an infected tooth.

What happens during a root canal?

During a root canal at My Tooth Place, your dentist numbs the area and offers you a sedative if you'd like to feel more relaxed. They clean the area, creates a small hole in your tooth, and removes the infected pulp. They clean and disinfect the inner part of the tooth, fills the empty space with dental materials, and seal the tooth closed using a filling. You might feel some pressure during a root canal, but no pain.

You might need a crown (tooth-colored cap) to protect the treated tooth and avoid further damage. 

Many root canals take about 60-90 minutes to complete. You might need more than one visit to receive your new protective crown. 

What can I expect after undergoing a root canal?

The treated tooth may feel a bit sensitive for a short time after a root canal. Take good care of your newly restored tooth by not smoking, brushing your teeth after meals, flossing daily, and not chewing on hard objects. Ask the My Tooth Place team about using an antibacterial mouthwash to minimize germs.

Schedule an evaluation at My Tooth Place by phone or request an appointment online today to determine if you need a root canal.