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Dental x-ray

Root Canals

Root canals have gotten a bad reputation, but we’re here to change that! These treatments actually help you feel better and save your tooth from further damage. At Goodday Dental Care, we ensure your root canal experience is as comfortable as possible

Understanding Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy can save a tooth that has become severely infected or decayed into the nerve. When a root canal is necessary, our primary goal is to ensure our patients' peace of mind. With a range of pain-management options, Dr. Elies Kim, DDS, makes root canal therapy a relaxing experience at Goodday Dental Care in Orange, CA.

Signs and Symptoms You Need a Root Canal

​The signs and symptoms of nerve damage can be one of the followings but not limited to:

  • Spontaneous pain even when not eating or drinking

  • Pain that wakes you up at night

  • Toothache that worsens with pressure or while eating

  • Darkening or discoloration of a tooth

  • Recurring gum swelling

  • Gum tenderness

  • Extreme sensitivity to cold or heat

  • Continuous pain that was before but now gone

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to further complications, including increased pain or an abscessed tooth. If you are unsure about any symptoms, schedule an appointment with Goodday Dental Care for a consultation and evaluation.

What to Expect During Your Root Canal Procedure

Pre-Treatment Preparation

For most patients, a root canal can be performed in a single visit. We ensure that both the tooth and the affected area are fully anesthetized for the entire procedure. Once the tooth is repaired, we often recommend protecting it with a  crown to prevent fractures.

During the Root Canal

After achieving full anesthesia, the treatment will be completed in one or two or more appointments based on the health of the pulpal tissue. If the tooth is severely infected, medication may be placed in the canals for one or two weeks before completing the root canal to effectively decontaminate the area. A temporary filling will be used between treatments to keep the area sterile. The height of the tooth is reduced to prevent it from being an active player in the bite.

Post-Treatment Care

After treatment, you may experience similar pain to what you felt before the procedure for about two days. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth until the tenderness subsides. Dr. Kim will prescribe a final restoration for the tooth, such as a crown. Remember that teeth with root canals have a higher risk of fracture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How painful are root canals?

You will not feel any pain during your root canal procedure due to the local anesthesia. The removal of the infection will alleviate the pain you felt before treatment.

 

Is it better to remove an infected tooth or receive a root canal?

Receiving a root canal treats the infection while preserving your natural tooth, avoiding the need for bridges, dentures, or implants.

 

What happens if you delay getting a root canal?

Delaying treatment can result in worsening pain, further dental complications, tooth loss, heightened infection, and acute abscess.

 

Can a tooth survive without a root canal?

A tooth needing a root canal cannot heal itself. Antibiotic is not the treatment for damaged nerve. The infection will worsen if not treated, even without pain.

Schedule Your Appointment

If you are experiencing symptoms indicating a possible need for a root canal, contact Goodday Dental Care. Schedule your appointment by filling out our online contact form or calling (657) 282-0078. We're here to ensure your dental health and comfort.

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