Gentle Root Canal Therapy in Simi Valley
Root canal therapy often carries a negative connotation, but the procedure allows a patient to restore and save their natural tooth and prevent costly dental work such as a tooth extraction and dental implant placement. At Jerrold D. Guss, DMD, we take every precaution to make root canal therapy less intimidating for our patients in Simi Valley and the surrounding areas.
The catalyst for a patient to require root canal therapy differs in each case. Some patients have a cracked a tooth, which causes the nerve to become necrotic, leading to infection. This necrotic tissue needs to be removed to prevent swelling and the infection from spreading throughout the mouth and the body as well. Also, older, worn restorations can develop small spaces that allow the bacteria to leak deeper into the tooth surface and kill off the nerve.
The goal of root canal therapy is to save the natural tooth structure by eliminating decay or infection existing within the pulp (living tissue within the tooth). During root canal therapy, the damaged nerves, bacteria, and decay are removed from the interior structure and replaced with medicated materials that restore the functionality of the tooth and reduce discomfort.
How do I know if I Need Root Canal Therapy?
Often, patients don’t realize they require root canal therapy when they visit our office with a sore tooth. Some of the initial symptoms of those needing root canal therapy include:
- Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Swelling or tenderness of the gum line
- An abscess on the gums
- A darkened appearance of the tooth
- Severe pain when applying pressure
While many patients experience one or more symptoms, some may experience none at all, making routine exams that much more important.
What Does Root Canal Therapy Entail?
Root canal procedures require a dental professional to first numb the area of the mouth where treatment is needed. A rubber dam is placed around the tooth to keep the area dry. The doctor makes an opening on top of the tooth to allow root canal files to be placed in the tooth to remove pulp, tooth decay, nerve tissue, and bacteria.
After the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, it is sealed with either a temporary or permanent filling. If a temporary filling is used, subsequent appointments will be required, during which the tooth will be filled with a dental material and a crown placed.
Contact Us Today to Schedule an Appointment
If you require root canal therapy in Simi Valley or any of the surrounding communities, call our office today, (805) 527-9300 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to restoring your smile!
CALL US: (805) 870-8994 REQUEST APPOINTMENT
Back