The Root of the Problem
People often joke about miserable life events by comparing them to root canals. At Blue Ocean Dentistry, we think root canals have got a bad rap. So, we want to set the record straight. Because even though they may not make it to the top of your Bucket List, they eliminate pain in the mouth and can help extend the life of problem teeth. What’s more, if you choose Dr. Fred Wong in Glendora as your dentist, you may be surprised at just how uneventful and effective a root canal can be!
What is a Root Canal
- A root canal is an endodontic term about dental service focused on the root part of the tooth. Specifically, treatment to the canal portion of the root where the nerve, blood vessels, and connective tissue of the tooth reside.
- Inside of a tooth, under the white enamel and a layer called the dentin, is soft tissue called the pulp. The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue and creates the surrounding hard tissue of the tooth during development.
- The pulp extends from the crown of the tooth to the tip of the roots where it connects to the tissues surrounding the root. Although the pulp is important during a tooth’s growth and development, once a tooth is fully mature, the tooth can survive without the pulp. This is because it continues to be nourished by the tissue surrounding the tooth.
Why do Root Canals Hurt?
In most cases, the reason a patient needs a root canal is because of an infection inside the tooth. So, often, patients start to feel relief once the infection is addressed and the procedure begins. The dentist removes enflamed roots and cleans and disinfects the canal. Then, he fills and seals canals with rubber-like material called gutta-percha. During the procedure, patients may feel pressure while the dentist works to save the tooth. But, like all good dental health practitioners, Dr. Fred Wong makes sure to thoroughly numb the area before he ever starts working. In fact, he offers sedation dentistry for people who struggle with dental anxiety. Most patients feel some discomfort or pain after the procedure. This occurs once the mouth regains feeling. To address this, we send each patient home with detailed aftercare instructions designed to help keep the area clean and manage pain.
Procedure Explained
Endodontic treatment is often performed in two or more visits, depending upon the source of the problem and the complexity of the tooth.
- We examine, test, and x-ray the tooth.
- Then, we numb the area with local anesthetic to reduce or eliminate pain.
- We place a rubber dam inside the mouth to isolate the tooth from the rest of the oral cavity. This barrier prevents bacteria and saliva from entering the tooth during the procedure.
- Next, we use a handpiece to open access into the pulp chamber and root canals.
- We use very small instruments to clean and shape the pulp chamber and root canals.
- We remove the nerve, blood vessels and connective tissue, and to prepare the canals for the root canal filling material.
- After we clean and shape the space, we fill the root canals with a biocompatible material.
- We use an adhesive cement. This completely seals the root canals.
- The filling material creates a barrier which prevents cells, fluids, and other matter from entering the tooth at the tip of the root.
- In some cases, we insert a temporary filling to prevent anything from entering the tooth from the mouth.
For more details about the procedure, please read the root canal section of our website.
About Dr. Fred Wong of Blue Ocean Dentistry in Glendora, California
Dr. Fred Wong and the staff at Blue Ocean Dentistry use the latest available dental treatments, equipment, and materials – all of which make a marked difference in our patients’ experiences. We are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal dental health. We creatively combine dental science and artistry — which can literally redesign your smile. Since even a subtle change in your smile will help you to project self-confidence and high self-esteem, we love helping you feel good about yourself. We deliver the finest dental care at the most reasonable cost and accept most dental insurance plans as well as CareCredit. For more about the dental treatment plans we offer or to schedule an appointment, call today (626) 852-6999.