Living with an infected tooth is both a painful and risky proposition. Left untreated, the infection could cause an abscess that could spread the infection to other teeth and tissue. At Yeo Family Dental Group, our highly experienced Marina Del Rey root canal specialists utilize advanced technologies to remove the infection in ways that are far less uncomfortable than previous root canal treatment, while also improving the chances of saving the natural tooth. Don’t put up with the pain any longer! Schedule a consultation for your root canal treatment today.
Root Canal Treatment at a Glance
With advanced and surprisingly comfortable endodontic therapy, you have an alternative to tooth removal that allows you to retain full use of your natural teeth.
The inside of a healthy tooth has a living pulp where the blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissues live. That pulp is normally protected by the dentin and enamel layers above it. However, tooth decay or damage can cause infection in the pulp. If left untreated, the infection can destroy the pulp and spread to the tooth and surrounding tissues. A root canal, known as endodontic therapy, is the most common method to treat an infected tooth.
Endodontic therapy involves the removal of tissue from inside the tooth that has been damaged by trauma or infected by decay. After the pulp is removed, the pulp chamber & root canal system is cleaned, disinfected & sealed.
To fill the cleaned pulp chamber, the dentist uses a rubber-like material known as gutta-percha. This material fills in the gap and prevents further infection from occurring. To fill the hole used to access the pulp chamber, the dentist will apply a regular filling material. Once a root canal is completed, two other procedures are generally needed to complete the restoration of the tooth.
Root canal treatment effectively addresses:
Dr. Jamie Yeo, DDS, and Dr. Rosita Tan, DMD, bring years of experience and a gentle touch to each root canal procedure, ensuring you receive the best possible care.
Root canal therapy specifically targets the internal structures of teeth in the mouth, including molars, premolars, canines, and incisors.
If you have any of the following symptoms, you may be a candidate: extreme toothache when pressure is applied to your teeth either through chewing or clenching; inability to tolerate hot or cold temperatures; and lingering sensitivity even when teeth are no longer in contact with the culprit; or a darkening of a tooth and/or swelling of the gums. The root canal procedure is fairly straightforward and really is nothing to be apprehensive about.
After your root canal treatment:
Dr. Yeo and Dr. Tan will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and the best possible outcome.
You'll experience immediate relief from pain and infection. The full benefits of the treatment will be apparent once your tooth is fully restored, typically within a few weeks.
Modern techniques and anesthesia make root canal treatment virtually pain-free. Dr. Yeo and Dr. Tan prioritize your comfort throughout the procedure.
Most root canals can be completed in one or two appointments, each lasting about 90 minutes.
In most cases, yes. Local anesthesia during the procedure wears off quickly, allowing you to drive safely.
Avoiding necessary root canal treatment can lead to severe pain, abscess formation, and potential tooth loss. The infection can also spread throughout the jaw and face, causing potentially life-threatening complications.