Preserving your natural teeth is always a preferred option than replacement and extraction. Root canal therapy is a restorative procedure that helps recover the health of your tooth by removing infected tissues. At Ygnacio Dental in Walnut Creek, CA 945961, we perform root canal procedures using gentle techniques to reinstate the aesthetics and function of an affected tooth. For most patients, root canal therapy can prevent their natural tooth from needing extraction and the associated costs of further restorations.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
A root canal therapy is performed to remove decay from a tooth and the dental pulp. This treatment is a better alternative to extraction. It is a standard procedure that can be accomplished in two dental visits. Our dentists can offer a safe, effective root canal procedure to safeguard the structural integrity of your teeth.
When Is Root Canal Therapy Necessary?
Root canal treatment is mandatory when the dental pulp inside the tooth becomes infected due to decay or trauma. The decay has to be removed before the entire tooth structure becomes compromised. If the infection is allowed to spread, it can damage the tooth beyond repair and affect the surrounding soft and hard tissues.
Signs of a Root Canal Infection
People suffering from a root canal infection may experience:
- Tooth sensitivity to heat or cold
- Discoloration of the tooth
- Swelling and tenderness of the gums
- Pain while chewing or applying force on the tooth
What to Expect During Root Canal Therapy?
To begin, we will administer local anesthesia to ensure your comfort during the procedure. We can offer various sedation options if you suffer from dental anxiety, such as nitrous oxide or oral conscious sedation. Once you are completely comfortable, we will clean out the decayed and infected dental pulp from the tooth’s pulp chamber. The tooth's inside will then be thoroughly disinfected, and the root canals will be filled with gutta-percha, a rubber-like substance. A temporary filling will then be placed and later reinforced by your final restoration when it is ready.
During the subsequent visit, impressions of your tooth are taken to prepare a restoration such as a dental crown. The crowns help strengthen the treated tooth and prevent further damage and decay.
Cost of Root Canal Treatments
Your root canal procedure charges will be determined by the number of appointments and the restorative dentistry solution needed. Typically, insurance will cover root canal treatments.
If you are experiencing the symptoms commonly associated with a root canal infection, visit Ygnacio Dental, at 1766 Lacassie Ave # 101, Walnut Creek, CA 945961, or call us at (925) 280-2848 and schedule an appointment.