ROOT CANALS

A root canal procedure is carried out when the pulp of a tooth gets infected or inflamed. The pulp of the tooth is the soft layer containing blood vessels and nerves which is under the hard enamel and dentin layers. The pulp starts at the crown and goes all the way to the tip of the root. While the pulp is important in developing teeth, it loses its function in fully developed teeth.

There are a number of reasons that can cause the pulp to get infected or inflamed, these include:

1. Extensive tooth decay that has spread to the root and the pulp.
2. Broken or cracked teeth which allow an infection to enter the pulp.
3. Repeated dental procedures on a single tooth which can cause inflammation and irritation.
4. Injury to a tooth caused by physical trauma.

If left untreated, infected and inflamed pulp can cause bone loss or the formation of a painful abscess. If you are looking for the most expert root canal Santa Ana & La Habra have to offer, come to Smooth Dental & Orthodontics and learn more about the procedure from our dental professionals.

At Smooth Dental Group, Dr. Elizabeth Tran will first give you a full oral examination and X-ray your teeth. If you require a root canal, Dr. Tran will walk you through the procedure and answer any questions you might have.

During the root canal procedure you will first be given a local anesthetic so that you don’t feel any pain. Next a dental dam will be placed around the tooth to prevent any saliva from entering the area while the root canal is being performed.

The dentist will then make an opening at the top of the tooth to gain access to the pulp. Using fine instruments the pulp will be cleaned out of the tooth. The tooth will also be shaped to accommodate a filling that will take the place of the pulp.

The filling is made up of a rubber-like material called gutta-percha which is biocompatible. The hole in the tooth will then be given a temporary filling to close it up and prevent any food particles or bacteria from getting in.

During a second visit the tooth will be fully reconstructed and the temporary filling will be replaced with a permanent one. If required, a crown will be fitted over the tooth to restore it to full functionality. A full set of post root canal care instructions will be given to you to follow, to ensure a full recovery and result from your root canal.

It is possible to experience some pain and swelling or some discomfort, these symptoms occur very rarely and can be remedied easily. Root canals have a 95% success rate and Dr. Tran has always had excellent results.

Contact us at either of our locations if you would like to schedule an appointment for a La Habra or Santa Ana root canal. At Smooth Dental and Orthodontics, we take the time to listen to all your questions and address any concerns. Dr. Tran will put you at ease with her gentle manner and will provide the best possible dental care for you.