Root Canal Montclair CA | What is a Root Canal Procedure

Root Canal An Overview

A root canal is performed to avoid the need for a tooth extraction. The goal of a root canal is to remove diseased tissue from the pulp of the affected tooth. We offer root canal treatment in the comfort of our Montclair Plaza Dental Group office.

When Is A Root Canal Necessary?

The pulp chamber is located in the middle of the tooth, under two protective layers, the dentin layer and the enamel layer. Inside the chamber is the pulp of the tooth which is made of blood vessels, tissue, and nerves. If the tooth is compromised in any way, it can leave the pulp vulnerable to germs and bacteria. Tooth decay, cracks in the tooth, and major tooth trauma can cause those germs to enter the pulp chamber which will lead to an infection. When the pulp becomes infected and inflamed, it is very painful. This infection is called pulpitis. If you think you are suffering from this, it is important to visit Dr. Dave Srikureja for treatment.

What Is A Root Canal?

When the tooth is infected, Dr. Dave must remove the diseased portion of the tooth in hopes of saving it from extraction. A root canal is recommended for a severely decayed, infected, or damaged tooth. When harmful bacteria enter the pulp of the tooth, the structure of the tooth is compromised. The goal is to remove the infection and stop the spread of bacteria. Root canals are one of the most commonly performed procedures in our Montclair California dentist office. We take the necessary steps to ensure you are comfortable, relaxed, and safe during the procedure.

What symptoms should I be watching for that may indicate that I need a root canal?

Some common symptoms that may indicate the necessity for a root canal include:

Severe tooth pain that progresses over time, as well as tooth sensitivity
Tender or swollen gums near an infection site and bad breath
A pimple filled with pus around the gum
Jawbone abscess detected by x-ray
Darkening of a tooth

Root Canal What to Expect

Before your root canal procedure, you Montclair Plaza dentist will work with you to answer any questions you may have. We have created an atmosphere where you feel safe, relaxed, and informed.

To start, your dentist will carefully numb the area around the affected tooth. If you are experiencing severe anxiety about the procedure, we can also provide the appropriate sedation option. To access the diseased tissue, a small hole is created using a dental drill. Using special tools, your dentist will gently remove all of the diseased tissue from the affected tooth. The pulp chamber is carefully cleaned and filled with the appropriate build-up material. The tooth is restored using a custom-designed dental crown.

A root canal can bring much-needed relief to a damaged tooth. Your Montclair dentist will provide any aftercare instructions after your root canal procedure.

Root Canal FAQs

Do you perform root canals for children?: Yes, our office can perform a Pulpotomy or Pulpectomy on your child’s infected tooth to stabilize their oral health and allow for the normal structural development of the permanent teeth.
What is a Pulpectomy?: A Pulpectomy involves the removal of diseased pulp from the entire tooth, both canals and crown. In most cases a dental crown is placed after the root canal to strengthen the tooth.
What is a Pulpotomy?: A Pulpotomy is the removal of disease pulp from only the crown portion of the tooth. A crown may be placed, depending on the overall condition of the tooth. This minimally invasive procedure is performed in children that have many cavities.