A root canal procedure is one of the best ways to save a tooth with significant structural damage.
Although root canals have a reputation for being unpleasant, the procedure is not much different than getting a cavity filled. A good dentist will ensure that you are comfortable throughout the procedure. Dr. Richard Feinberg’s caring and compassionate approach to patient care sets him apart from other providers.
Dr. Feinberg has advanced training in endodontic specialties such as our La Mesa root canals. He will ensure your root canal at San Diego Dental Center is virtually painless.
Endodontics is a type of dentistry that focuses on injuries, diseases, and infections that affect the soft pulp inside the tooth. Root canals are the most common endodontic treatment. When a root canal is not enough to save a tooth, your dentist may perform an endodontic procedure known as an apicoectomy. This involves accessing the bone through a small incision in the gums.
The tooth contains a soft inner portion called the pulp that is surrounded by the harder enamel shell. This pulp contains the blood vessels and nerves that help your tooth grow.
When the pulp of the tooth becomes infected, the tissue becomes inflamed. This might occur because of a chip in the tooth, deep decay, or trauma to the tooth. When the pulp becomes inflamed, it can be very painful. A root canal is a procedure that removes the damaged pulp. For adults, this pulp is not necessary to sustain the tooth; if it is removed, the tooth will continue to receive necessary nutrients from the surrounding tissue.
“After a week of horrible pain in my tooth. I found Dr. Feinberg, got in to see him as quick as I could. The entire procedure went smoothly and my tooth looked as good as new after all was said & done. Dr. Feinberg's caring approach is definitely what sets him apart from the other dentists I've been to. By far, the best root canal I've ever gotten!”
A root canal is necessary when oral bacteria invade the tooth pulp, a soft tissue inside each tooth. Pulp is the only component of the tooth to contain nerves and blood vessels. While an adult tooth can survive without pulp, diseased pulp can cause a host of problems. Many patients who need a root canal have discomfort, swelling, difficulty eating, discoloration, and tooth mobility.
Perhaps you have unexplained tooth pain, sensitivity to hold and cold drinks, swollen gums, or a cracked tooth. These could be signs you need a root canal. If you have any of the following symptoms, come in to see Dr. Feinberg as soon as possible.
Don’t delay your treatment. If you wait too long to get a root canal, it can lead to more serious issues such as an abscess, septicemia, bone loss, and missing teeth.
A root canal is a routine dental procedure. You will receive local anesthetic to numb the affected area during the root canal procedure. As a result, you will not feel anything while the dentist is working on your tooth.
Before your root canal begins, Dr. Feinberg will administer an anesthetic so you should not feel any pain. He will then access the pulp by drilling into the tooth. During the procedure, Dr. Feinberg will remove the problematic pulp from your tooth. After cleaning the area to prevent infection, he will then seal it with a material akin to rubber. The tooth is then restored with a filling or crown, which protects it from future damage.
After receiving local anesthesia, your root canal procedure feels similar to having a cavity filled. You may have some mild discomfort for a few days afterward.
Generally speaking, yes, although it depends on the quality and location of the affected tooth. Front teeth are less likely to need crowns, especially those in good condition. Molars and mid-teeth are more likely to require a crown.
The recovery takes a few days to a week. You should feel well enough to return to work a day or two later.
You can eat and drink as soon as the anesthetic wears off.
With insurance, a root canal can cost anywhere from $200 to $1500. Without insurance, patients can expect to pay between $620 to $1472. Root canals performed on the front teeth are generally less costly than those performed on molars.
After completing your root canal La Mesa dentist, Dr. Feinberg, will seal your tooth, take impressions, and mill a dental crown. The crown is a cap that fits snugly over your tooth to strengthen it and prevent further damage.
Your mouth will be numb for a few hours after your procedure. Once the numbness subsides, you can eat and drink soft foods. Be sure to avoid very hot or cold beverages as your tooth heals.
It is normal to feel tired right after a root canal. You should plan to take the rest of the day off to rest and recuperate. Expect some mild soreness or aching for a few days. Most patients return to work within a day or two and are feeling back to normal within a week.
After the root canal is complete, you will not notice any difference between the tooth that had a root canal and your other teeth. The affected tooth will be just as strong and natural looking as your surrounding teeth. Most importantly, it will no longer lead to pain and tenderness once the inflamed pulp is removed.
Dr. Feinberg prides himself not only on his dental expertise, but also his ability to provide superior patient care.
When assessing potential dental problems, Dr. Feinberg listens to each patient to ensure that he can meet their unique needs. This commitment to patient satisfaction is why his patients continue to return to receive the best root canals La Mesa has to offer. To experience this world class care for yourself, contact us at the San Diego Dental Center today to set up an appointment.
The first step towards a beautiful, healthy smile is to schedule an appointment.
Please contact our office by phone or complete the appointment request form. Our scheduling coordinator will contact you to confirm your appointment.
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San Diego Dental Center proudly serves patients from La Mesa, La Jolla, El Cajon & the entire San Diego, CA area.
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