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Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is a common and effective treatment to create a healthier smile by treating heavily damaged or infected teeth and sterilizing the area for future protection. Damaged and decayed teeth can negatively impact an individual’s oral and overall health. Concerns such as tooth fractures, decay, and bacteria build-up can lead to infections and very uncomfortable symptoms, as well as oral and general health risks. At our Los Algodones, Baja California practice, Dr. Isaías Íñiguez and his team are committed to helping patients achieve a healthy and bright smile. With state-of-the-art technology and up-to-date techniques, root canal procedures can be performed as comfortably as possible while effectively restoring dental health.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a dental treatment designed to repair an infected and/or damaged tooth. Dental concerns such as fractures, cavities, and severe decay can lead to a decline in the aesthetic look and structural well-being of a patient’s smile. Bacteria build-up can infect a tooth’s pulp and nerves and, if left untreated, can result in serious pain, eventual tooth loss, and even risks to an individual’s overall health. A root canal can address these issues and alleviate symptoms by cleaning out the bacteria. The tooth can then be affixed with a custom dental crown to enhance its strength and appearance while protecting it from further harm.
Who Is a Candidate for a Root Canal?
Candidacy for root canal therapy can be determined once the patient has been evaluated and x-rays have been performed. Individuals who could potentially need a root canal may be experiencing symptoms such as:
- Swollen and/or tender gums
- A cracked or chipped tooth
- Pain or discomfort when chewing and/or throughout the day
- Sensitivity when consuming very hot or cold food and beverages
- Lumps or abscesses around the tooth
- Gum discharge
- Throbbing pressure in the area around the tooth
- A bad taste in the mouth
Not every patient who needs a root canal may be experiencing the above symptoms, and not every patient with a damaged tooth may need a root canal. Dr. Íñiguez can evaluate your tooth/teeth to determine whether a root canal is the best option for your needs.
How Is the Root Canal Procedure Performed?
The root canal process often begins with the application of a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth and minimize possible discomfort. The nerve chamber is cleaned and disinfected to remove bacteria. That area will then be sealed to help safeguard from future infection. It will likely be recommended to add a dental crown to the affected tooth, which can provide extra support, protection, and aesthetic improvement.
Patients who are particularly nervous about root canal therapy may benefit from sedation dentistry. Many individuals experience dental anxiety and may put off pursuing a root canal out of fear. We offer multiple sedation dentistry options to make the process more comfortable and to ease a patient’s anxiety about dental treatment.
How Is the Recovery Process After a Root Canal?
While it typically takes a couple of hours for the numbing effects to wear off, many patients can return to their normal daily routines after a root canal. Some tenderness can be expected in the days that follow and patients should avoid chewing on the treated tooth for at least a few days (or as recommended by the dentist). Medication can typically help manage any pain and discomfort as the area heals. It is very important to adhere to post-treatment guidelines and to attend any follow-up appointments necessary after a root canal procedure to ensure that the tooth remains healthy for a long time to come.
For more information on root canal therapy, please contact our office with any additional questions you may have, or to schedule a consultation.
