What is a Root Canal?
If you recently discovered you need a root canal, you probably have questions about what the procedure entails and why it’s necessary. Our root canal in Daly City is a dental treatment designed to save a tooth damaged due to deep decay, infection, or trauma. The procedure involves removing the infected or decayed pulp—the soft tissue inside the tooth—cleaning the canal and sealing it to prevent further damage.
Many people are nervous when they hear they need a root canal, but the procedure is not as intimidating as it may sound. Modern dental techniques have made the process relatively quick, efficient, and pain-free. Our goal at Lake Merced Dentistry is to ensure patients feel comfortable and informed throughout their treatment, especially regarding a root canal.
How Does a Damaged Pulp Make My Tooth Hurt?
The pulp inside a tooth contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, which help maintain the tooth’s health. However, when this pulp becomes inflamed or infected due to untreated cavities, cracks, fractures, or trauma, it can lead to serious oral health problems.
Common symptoms of damaged pulp include severe toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, swelling in the gums, and sometimes a visible abscess. If left untreated, the infection can spread beyond the tooth to other areas of the jaw and face, potentially causing more significant complications. That is why a root canal is often necessary to alleviate pain and protect dental health.
What Happens During the Root Canal Procedure?
When you come in for a root canal in Daly City at Lake Merced Dentistry, our team will walk you through each step of the process for your peace of mind. The procedure usually takes one or two visits and can be broken down into the following stages:
Assessment and Preparation
We begin by taking X-rays to evaluate the extent of the damage or infection. Local anesthesia is then applied to numb the affected area, ensuring you remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
- Cleaning the Canal
The dentist makes a small opening in the tooth to access the pulp chamber. They remove the infected or decayed tissue and thoroughly clean and disinfect the canal. - Filling and Sealing
After cleaning the canal, the dentist fills it with a biocompatible material and seals it to prevent further infection. They may place a temporary filling to protect the tooth until your permanent crown is ready. - Restoration
During a follow-up visit, the dentist applies a custom crown or filling to restore the tooth’s functionality and appearance. This final step protects the tooth and ensures it blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.
The entire procedure is precise and designed to save your tooth while eliminating the source of pain and infection.
How to Prepare for Your Root Canal
Preparing for a root canal will make the process smoother and help ensure optimal results. Here are some tips to keep in mind before your appointment at our Daly City dental office:
Follow Instructions: Our team will provide you with pre-procedure instructions. Follow these carefully, especially if we prescribe antibiotics.
Eat Well: Unless instructed otherwise, eat a balanced meal before your procedure since your mouth may remain numb for a few hours afterward.
Relax: Modern root canal procedures are efficient and comfortable. If you feel anxious, discuss sedation options with our team.
Aftercare Tips for a Successful Recovery
Proper care following your root canal in Daly City is essential for a smooth recovery. Once your procedure is complete, our dentists will provide detailed aftercare guidelines, but here’s an overview of what to expect:
- Manage Discomfort: Some mild soreness or sensitivity in the treated area is common. Over-the-counter pain relievers or those prescribed by your dentist can help alleviate this.
- Maintain Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss gently around the treated tooth, avoiding aggressive motions that may irritate the area.
- Avoid Hard Foods: For a few days, stick to a soft diet to prevent unnecessary strain on the treated tooth.
- Attend Follow-Up Visits: Return for scheduled appointments to monitor healing and complete the final restoration.
By following these steps, you’ll be on your way to enjoying a fully restored and pain-free smile.
Why Choose Lake Merced Dentistry for Your Root Canal in Daly City?
At Lake Merced Dentistry, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional care tailored to each individual’s needs. Our team includes experienced and compassionate dental professionals like Dr. Jiahua Zhu, Dr. Semi Lim, Dr. Amrit Sethi, Dr. Zachary Hollander, and Dr. Anne Wang. Together, we use cutting-edge technology and personalized approaches to make every visit as comfortable as possible.
We also offer many other awesome services, like teeth whitening, which effectively removes stains and brightens your smile for a youthful appearance, or dental implants, which provide a durable, natural-looking solution to replace missing teeth and restore your smile’s functionality.
Whether you need a regular check-up or a root canal in Daly City, your dental health and peace of mind are always our top priorities. If you suspect you may need a root canal, don’t hesitate to contact us today! We’ll work with you to create a treatment plan to restore your oral health and confidence.
