Root Canals

If you have an infected or severely decayed tooth, a root canal can save it from requiring extraction. At Los Gatos Center for Dental Excellence in Los Gatos, California, Ladan Sahabi, DDS, and her experienced team routinely perform root canals to restore damaged teeth. Schedule an appointment with Los Gatos Center for Dental Excellence by phone or request one online today. 

What are root canals?

A root canal is a dental restoration procedure in which Dr. Sahabi removes infected tissue inside of your tooth, cleans it, fills it with a special material, and places a crown over the restored tooth to protect it. A root canal helps prevent the need for permanent tooth extraction. See your dentist at the first sign of tooth pain to help save the tooth.

When is a root canal necessary?

The following signs and symptoms may indicate you require a root canal:

• Gum swelling
• An abscess 
• A toothache
• Infection
• Severe tooth decay
• A crack
• Tooth weakness
• A hole in your tooth
• Temperature sensitivity

With tooth trauma or decay, bacteria can enter the soft core inside your tooth, called the pulp. This can lead to infection, pulp death, and tooth or bone loss.

The earlier you seek treatment after experiencing signs of tooth trauma or decay, the more likely it is your dentist can restore the tooth with a root canal or other dental restoration procedure.

What happens during root canals?

Prior to a root canal, Dr. Sahabi examines your tooth, reviews your symptoms, and takes dental X-rays to determine the severity of tooth damage you have.

During treatment, she numbs the tooth and surrounding tissues and removes the diseased part of your tooth’s pulp. She cleans the pulp chamber, may apply medicine to it, and reshapes the inside of your tooth when necessary. Then, she fills the chamber with rubber compound, seals the access hole, and places a dental filling on top. 

You may require a porcelain dental crown that fits securely over the filling to further protect your tooth, strengthen it, and restore its appearance to look like your natural, surrounding teeth.

How should I care for my restored tooth after a root canal?

After root canal treatment, your tooth might be a little sensitive. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers may help alleviate discomfort. Care for a restored tooth as you do with your other teeth by brushing twice daily and flossing every day. Call your dentist if root canal pain lasts more than several days, and keep routine dental exams and cleanings every six months.

At the first sign of tooth pain, schedule an appointment with Los Gatos Center for Dental Excellence by calling the office or requesting one online.