Steps in Root Canal Treatment

Many patients are intimidated by the term “root canal”. But it remains one of the safest maneuvers in general dentistry—unless you have a dental phobia and require some form of sedation, root canals are routine. If you are designated for root canal therapy by your dentist in Los Angeles, there are clear steps in the procedure you should get familiar with.

First, the dentist will anesthetize the area. This ensures you will fill no pain in the tooth, which is probably dying anyway if endodontic therapy has been recommended. Next, something called a dental dam is placed over your mouth, isolating the affected tooth and ensuring a sterile operating environment.

The dentist now drills a small access hole into the tooth. For front teeth, entry is made from behind the tooth. For back teeth, entry is made through the biting surface.

Using appropriate tools, the doctor removes all the infected pulp from inside the tooth and prepares the pulp chamber for filling. A replacement material called gutta-percha is used to replace the removed pulp.

Finally, a temporary filling will be placed until your restoration session. Depending on the condition of the tooth, the doctor may install a temporary supporting post inside the root canal.

For more about root canal treatment, contact our expert in root canal in Los Angeles.