24
Dec
5 Steps to Restoring Your Tooth with Root Canal Therapy
A root canal is a common dental procedure used to save a severely infected or damaged tooth. Yet, many people are intimidated by this treatment. Drs. Julie and Joseph Boulos of All Coast Dental, take the time to explain the root canal procedure so you are prepared thoroughly. This can help allay any fears you may have about this procedure. Contrary to popular belief, getting a root canal isn’t difficult or painful. It is, however, a process that’s completed in stages.
Root canals are generally done to eliminate infection inside the pulp of your tooth – the inner chamber that contains its blood vessels, connective tissues, and nerves. Left untreated, this infection can kill your tooth. It can also spread to nearby teeth, putting them at risk. A root canal will end the infection and restore your tooth to avoid having it removed. Â
Here are the five steps involved in a root canal procedure:
Step 1 Consultation and EvaluationÂ
During your initial consultation, Drs. Julie and Joseph Boulos will evaluate your condition to determine if a root canal is warranted. We’ll take x-rays of your tooth and perform diagnostic tests to assess the damage and cause of infection. Severe tooth pain, gum swelling and tenderness, and extreme sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks are some common signs that a tooth needs root canal therapy.
Step 2 Anesthesia
Once we decide a root canal is necessary, we’ll numb your tooth and surrounding gum tissues for treatment. A local anesthetic will keep you comfortable and pain-free during this procedure.
Step 3 Accessing and Removing the Pulp of Your Tooth
Next, we’ll drill your tooth to create an opening to gain access to the infected pulp. We’ll have the infected pulp and diseased tissues removed using special dental tools. Removing the pulp is key to eliminating the infection and keeping it from spreading. In the process, we can save your tooth.
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New Patients: (858) 264-3002 | Existing Patients: (858) 270-4904
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Step 4 Cleaning and Filling Your Tooth
Following the extraction of the pulp, Drs. Julie and Joseph Boulos will disinfect and clean your tooth’s chamber and canals to eliminate any remaining bacteria. After that, we will remove any moisture from the canals that can encourage the growth of bacteria. To prevent further infection and decay, we will fill your tooth with gutta-percha material after the canals are totally dry.
Step 5 Crowning Your Tooth
Most teeth that undergo root canal treatment need restoration for protection and support. Depending on the damage to your tooth, we may recommend a permanent filling, an onlay, or a dental crown. Crowning your tooth gives it an extra layer of protection against future decay. It also reinforces your tooth’s fragile structure for future use. A porcelain crown will keep your tooth safe and secure for years.
Where to Go for Painless Root Canal Treatment Near Me
To schedule a root canal therapy consultation at All Coast Dental in San Diego, CA, contact Dr. Julie or Joseph Boulos at (858) 264-3002.
Dr. Julie Boulos
Dr. Julie Boulos is a highly dedicated general dentist with over 15 years of experience. She earned her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Detroit Mercy and holds a Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Science from California Polytechnic State University. Dr. Julie's unique background in nutrition allows her to emphasize the connection between diet and oral health, focusing on prevention. She is known for her compassionate, patient-centered approach and expertise in a wide range of dental services. Dr. Julie is a member of the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, and San Diego Dental Society.