We understand that, for most people, there’s no dental procedure as anxiety-producing as a root canal.
In fact, some people get so nervous when faced with the prospect of a root canal that they forgo treatment altogether. But if you are in pain and you put off treatment, it will continue to worsen, and ultimately the tooth will need to be removed.
But you should know that root canal treatment with Santa Monica family dentist Dr. Carol Follette is generally no more complicated than a procedure such as fillings or crowns.
If your dentist recommends root canal treatment, don’t let misinformation about the procedure keep you from following through. We offer gentle treatment from a caring team, and if you need a little help with relaxing, we also offer
Why Do I Need a Root Canal?
Root canal therapy is used to remove the infection or extensive decay from the interior of the tooth. The space inside the tooth where the pulp and main nerve are found is called the root canal.
If you already have an infection in the root of your tooth, delaying a root canal allows the infection to spread to your jawbone or nearby teeth. If the tooth continues to decay, there will not be enough hard tissue left for a successful root canal and the tooth will probably need to be removed.
What Happens during the Procedure?
During the procedure, your dentist removes infected, decayed or damaged pulp, as well as the nerve of the tooth. The root canal is then sterilized and filled with medication to speed healing. A crown is then placed over the tooth for protection and stability.
How Does a Root Canal Benefit Me?
Root canal therapy allows the structure of the tooth to remain intact, even though the nerve has been removed. Although the tooth no longer contains nerve tissue it is still usable for chewing. Also, because the tooth is left intact, it maintains its proper position, helping to preserve proper spacing between remaining teeth and keeping your bite alignment correct.
If you suspect you need a root canal or have a question you don’t see here, please contact our your Santa Monica family dentist for additional information or if you have any questions about root canals and how they can help save a damaged tooth.