What Is A Root Canal?
Inside each tooth is a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. Deep decay, cracks, trauma, or other damage can allow the pulp to become inflamed or infected. A root canal treats the inside of the tooth by removing the affected pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the canals, and sealing the space to help prevent further infection. The goal of root canal treatment is to save a tooth that might otherwise require extraction while restoring comfortable function.
Signs You May Need Root Canal Treatment
Not every toothache means you need a root canal. An examination and dental imaging are necessary to determine the cause of your symptoms. You should schedule a dental evaluation if you experience:
Persistent or severe tooth pain
Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
Pain when chewing or biting
Swelling or tenderness around a tooth
A pimple or bump on the gums near a tooth
A cracked, chipped, or significantly damaged tooth
Tooth discoloration following an injury
Seeking care promptly can help prevent an infection from progressing and improve the chances of preserving the affected tooth.
What Happens During Root Canal Treatment?
Before treatment, we carefully evaluate the tooth and surrounding tissues to determine whether root canal therapy is appropriate. The area is numbed with local anesthesia to help keep you comfortable during the procedure.
We then access the inside of the tooth, remove the inflamed or infected pulp, and clean and shape the root canal system. The canals are filled and sealed to protect the tooth from reinfection. Modern anesthetic techniques allow most patients to remain comfortable during root canal treatment. Depending on the condition and location of the tooth, a filling, crown, or other restoration may be recommended afterward to restore strength and function.
Caring For Your Tooth After A Root Canal
Some tenderness around the treated tooth can occur after the procedure and generally improves as the area heals. Follow the care instructions provided by our dental team, and avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth until the final restoration is complete when applicable.
Continue brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and attending routine dental visits. With proper restoration and ongoing dental care, a root canal-treated tooth can continue functioning for many years.
Schedule a Root Canal Evaluation in Montebello, CA
If you are experiencing persistent tooth pain, sensitivity, swelling, or other signs of an infected or damaged tooth, schedule an evaluation with Cecchini Family Dental to determine whether a root canal may help relieve your symptoms and preserve your natural tooth.
Cecchini Family Dental
415 W Beverly Blvd
Montebello, CA 90640
Phone: (323) 722-5000
