Our Root Canal Procedures in Burbank, CA

People most often associate three common treatments with the dentist: cleanings, fillings, and root canals. Just reading those last words may make you shudder. Many people have the perception that root canal therapy is highly unpleasant, even painful. The truth is that root canal treatment, or endodontic treatment, is actually similar to having a tooth filled. In our Los Angeles dental office, your dentist lets you know that root canal treatment is nothing to fear.

A root canal is a procedure in which dead, injured, or infected pulp is carefully removed from the inner part of a damaged tooth. The pulp chamber, where infected tissue is located, is within the root canal system. It is for this reason that root canals are associated with pain. Often, what happens is a tooth develops a cavity, which is not treated right away. Bacteria continue to invade the tooth, progressively moving towards the inner structure. Once infection reaches the dental pulp, the nerve sends strong signals in the form of pain. In order to preserve natural tooth structure, infected tissue must be removed, and the root canal treated so that bacteria do not cause further damage and pain.

Root canal therapy is a simple procedure that is performed after local anesthetic has been administered to numb the area. A rubber dam is placed around the tooth to isolate it, keeping it protected from saliva. Using small tools made for this procedure; Dr. Elzayat creates an opening to the pulp chamber and removes damaged tissue. The canal is then cleaned to remove any debris, sterilized to inhibit bacteria, and sealed.

After the completion of this initial procedure, the tooth will be covered with a temporary crown. A model of the prepared tooth is sent to a dental lab, where a durable, natural looking dental crown will be made. In a subsequent visit, a permanent crown will be placed. The restoration of a tooth with root canal therapy and a customized dental crown eliminates pain and serves your functional and aesthetic needs for years.

Keep your smile healthy. Contact our dental office in North Hollywood for preventative care from your experienced dentist.