Let’s be honest – when you think of root canals, you think of drills, pain, and a scary dental procedure that would frighten the bravest of patients. But did you know that these ideas are outdated and untrue? Contrary to popular myth, root canals in Pasadena from Pasadena Family Dentistry actually cure dental pain, rather than causing it. You don’t have to be afraid anymore – get the facts on this procedure from the most respected team in the area in this post.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
As your premier dentist in Pasadena, Dr. Erica Revel and Dr. Kimber Holmes explain that endodontic treatment (or root canal therapy) is a way to repair and save a badly damaged or infected tooth. And, because we’ve come so far with dental technology, this procedure is now similar to having a filling placed.
How Does Root Canal Therapy Work?
Having a root canal performed is a process that follows the steps below:
- Step 1 – Diagnosis – To make sure we’re getting the full picture of your smile and addressing the underlying cause of your dental issues, our dentists will take X-rays to properly diagnose your oral health problems.
- Step 2 – Anesthesia – Since we want our patients to be completely comfortable during their root canal therapy, we will numb the area sufficiently to make sure you’re pain-free the whole time you’re undergoing treatment.
- Step 3 – Pulpectomy – We will prepare your tooth and access the infected or inflamed pulp that is the true cause of your dental pain. We’ll remove this, and then fill in the actual root canal with a biocompatible substance called gutta-percha. Patients usually notice immediate relief because the root cause of their pain has been addressed.
- Step 4 – Filling or Crown – To cover the area and protect it from future problems, we will place a filling or a dental crown over your tooth that will be both natural-looking and long-lasting.
How Can You Help If I’m Still Nervous About My Root Canal Procedure?
Although root canals aren’t the scary procedure they used to be, we understand that many patients are still anxious about undergoing treatment. To make sure your experience is relaxing – and to keep you safe – we offer both inhalation and oral conscious sedation for dental anxiety. If you have questions and are nervous, please reach out to us – it’s our goal to make sure every person we treat receives the compassionate care they deserve.
Now that you know what root canals are and how they actually relieve dental pain (rather than causing it), schedule your appointment today with Pasadena Family Dentistry.