< View All Articles

Manhattan Beach General Dentist Discusses the Process of Root Canal Therapy

With advancements in modern technology this procedure can be quick, efficient, and virtually pain-free. Our patients tell us that their root canal therapy was much easier than they ever thought it would be. For many patients it is a very necessary procedure, and so it’s important to understand how manageable root canal therapy can be. If a tooth is extensively diseased and decayed, root canal treatment will likely need to be performed.

Every tooth has an outer surface of dental enamel, which is the hard, shiny part of the tooth associated with healthy smiles. Underneath the dental enamel lies the dentin, and then the dental pulp. The underlying dental pulp is actually made up of blood vessels and nerves, and it can become excruciating for the patient when this material is exposed or irritated.  

Once a dental infection penetrates the enamel and dentin into the pulp, a root canal may be indicated. Through the use of root canal therapy, Manhattan Beach General Dentist removes the infected material and the hollowed out space is then sterilized. The tooth is then disinfected and resealed, preserving the structure of the tooth and helping to prevent further infection. When the tooth is left untreated by root canal therapy, a dental infection can spread into gum tissue and bone as well as other teeth. Untreated infected dental pulp can cause serious nerve damage and deterioration.

Through the use of modern root canal technology and sedation techniques Manhattan Beach General Dentistry can now restore your dental health in an anxiety and pain-free manner. Feeling some anxiety is normal, but don’t compromise your dental health by delaying treatment.