Root Canal Services From Our Team at Dentist of Torrance

The dentist creates a small opening in the tooth and removes the infected or damaged tissue from inside it. The root canals are then carefully cleaned, shaped, filled, and sealed to prevent bacteria from reentering. A filling or crown is placed afterward to protect the treated tooth and restore its function.

A root canal commonly takes between 60 and 90 minutes, although the exact length depends on the tooth and complexity of the case. Some treatments can be completed during one visit, while others may require an additional appointment. Your dentist will provide a more accurate timeline after examining the affected tooth.

The cost of root canal therapy varies based on the location of the tooth and the complexity of treatment. Molars may cost more because they typically have more roots and canals to treat. Insurance coverage, the final restoration, and any additional procedures can also affect your total expense.

Local anesthesia is used to numb the tooth and surrounding tissues during root canal therapy. Most patients feel pressure or movement rather than pain while the procedure is performed. Mild tenderness may occur afterward but generally improves within a few days.

Most patients can return to work, school, and other normal activities shortly after treatment. The affected area may remain tender for several days while the surrounding tissues heal. Avoid chewing hard foods with the treated tooth until your dentist confirms that it is fully restored.

Wait until the numbness has completely worn off before eating to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. Choose soft foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth during the early stages of recovery. Avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods while you have a temporary filling or crown.

Most patients can drive after a root canal performed with local anesthesia alone. You will need someone else to drive if you receive sedation or medication that causes drowsiness. Your dental team will explain any restrictions before your procedure.

Many root canal-treated teeth need crowns because the remaining structure may be more vulnerable to fractures. Crowns are especially common for molars and premolars, which withstand significant chewing pressure. Some front teeth may be repaired with a filling when enough healthy structure remains.

Root canal therapy removes infected tissue while preserving the natural tooth. An extraction removes the entire tooth from its socket and leaves an open space in the smile. The missing tooth may then need to be replaced with an implant, bridge, or partial denture.

A previously treated tooth can occasionally develop a new infection or fail to heal properly. Depending on the cause, the dentist may recommend retreatment, root-end surgery, or extraction if the tooth cannot be saved. Contact the office if you experience renewed pain, swelling, sensitivity, or an unpleasant taste.

When a tooth is severely infected or damaged, extraction is the primary alternative to root canal therapy. The missing tooth may then be replaced with a dental implant, fixed bridge, or removable partial denture. Your dentist will compare the options based on the tooth’s condition, your oral health, and your treatment goals.

Mild tenderness can often be managed with an over-the-counter pain reliever that is safe for you and taken as directed. Avoid placing heavy pressure on the treated tooth and follow the aftercare instructions provided by your dentist. Contact the office for severe or worsening pain, visible swelling, an uneven bite, or symptoms that do not improve.