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Root Canal Therapy

Dr. Wali Hamidy may recommend a root canal to remove infection and save your teeth from extraction. This endodontic treatment is designed to restore your oral health while also preventing the need for more extensive treatments. Call La Jolla Dental Image today at (858) 202-0481 to schedule an appointment with our skilled dentist and learn more about root canal therapy in La Jolla, California.

Commonly called a root canal, root canal treatment is a type of endodontic therapy that is often recommended if the tooth pulp and nerves become infected or damaged. This may occur if injury or decay reaches deep into the tooth, past the outer enamel layer. When left untreated, this type of infection and disease may cause the tooth to die and necessitate tooth extraction. To restore the health of the tooth and avoid the need for extraction, our skilled dentist will remove the infected and injured tissues from within the tooth, clean the tooth, and fill it with a medicated material. We will then cap the tooth with a restoration, such as a dental crown, to return the tooth to its original shape and structure. In most cases, a root canal can be completed in only one or two comfortable visits to our office.

Root canal treatment has a reputation for being a painful treatment. In reality, however, root canal treatment can often be completed with minimal discomfort thanks to advanced techniques, tools and anesthesia. Our dentist and entire team work hard to provide you with a pleasant and comfortable experience each time you visit our office. To learn more about root canal treatment, we welcome you to contact us today. We are committed to restoring your smile’s health.

At La Jolla Dental Image, Dr. Wali Hamidy is dedicated to providing high-quality root canal therapy to patients in La Jolla, CA 92037 and the surrounding areas. Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment, is designed to remove infection from within a tooth, relieve pain, and prevent the need for tooth extraction. This procedure not only preserves the tooth but also restores its functionality, allowing patients to continue to chew and enjoy life without discomfort. Our experienced team at La Jolla Dental Image is here to ensure your root canal procedure is as painless and comfortable as possible.

The Root Canal Procedure: What to Expect
At La Jolla Dental Image, we understand that many patients may feel anxious about undergoing a root canal. However, advancements in endodontic care have made the process much more comfortable and effective. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the root canal process:

Initial Consultation: Dr. Hamidy will thoroughly examine the affected tooth, including x-rays, to assess the extent of the infection or damage. He will also discuss your symptoms and concerns to create a personalized treatment plan.
Numbing the Area: To ensure your comfort, Dr. Hamidy will administer local anesthesia to numb the affected area. This will make the procedure virtually painless, allowing you to relax during the treatment.
Removing the Infected Tissue: During the procedure, Dr. Hamidy will create a small opening in the tooth to access the infected pulp. The infected or inflamed tissue is carefully removed from the tooth’s root canals using specialized tools. The canals are then cleaned and shaped to remove any remaining bacteria or debris.
Filling the Canals: Once the canals are cleaned, they are filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This material helps seal the canals and prevent future infections. A temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth until a permanent restoration is completed.
Restoring the Tooth: After the root canal procedure, the tooth may need additional support in the form of a dental crown to restore its strength and function. This permanent restoration ensures that the tooth can continue to function as normal and prevents further damage.
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
Many patients are relieved to learn that root canal therapy is highly predictable and offers excellent results. The main benefit is that it allows you to preserve your natural tooth, avoiding the need for extraction and tooth replacement options like dental implants or bridges. Additional benefits include:

Relieving Pain: Root canals effectively eliminate the severe pain caused by infection, allowing you to return to normal activities.
Preserving Your Smile: Root canal therapy saves teeth and helps maintain the natural aesthetics of your smile.
Preventing Complications: Timely treatment can prevent tooth loss, abscesses, and the spread of infection to other areas of the mouth.
Aftercare and Recovery
Following your root canal, it’s normal to experience mild discomfort or sensitivity in the treated area, especially when biting or chewing. This discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Dr. Hamidy will provide you with detailed post-procedure instructions to ensure a smooth recovery, which may include:

Avoiding hard or sticky foods until the permanent restoration is in place.
Brushing and flossing regularly to maintain good oral hygiene.
Scheduling a follow-up appointment to monitor the healing and to place a permanent dental crown.

Most patients can resume normal activities the day after their root canal procedure. The tooth may feel sensitive for a few days but should subside as the healing process continues.

Why You May Need a Root Canal

Root canal therapy is typically recommended when the dental pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth, becomes infected or inflamed. This can result from dental trauma, deep decay, or repeated dental procedures that have compromised the tooth’s integrity. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, and when it becomes infected, it can cause significant discomfort. Some common signs you may need a root canal include:

Severe toothache or pain when chewing or biting
Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
Swelling and tenderness in the gums
Discoloration of the tooth
Dental abscess or pus near the affected tooth

If left untreated, an infected tooth can lead to tooth loss and even affect your overall health. It’s crucial to address these symptoms early to prevent further complications.

Why Choose La Jolla Dental Image?

At La Jolla Dental Image, we are committed to providing excellent patient care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Dr. Hamidy has extensive experience in endodontic treatment and works closely with each patient to ensure that their individual needs are met. We use the latest advancements in dental technology and techniques to provide effective treatment while minimizing discomfort.

We understand that dental procedures, especially root canals, can cause anxiety for many patients. Our team is dedicated to ensuring your experience is as stress-free as possible. From the initial consultation to post-procedure care, we are here to answer all your questions and ensure you feel confident in your treatment plan.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you are experiencing any signs of a tooth infection or have been told you may need a root canal, don’t wait. Early treatment can prevent tooth loss and help you maintain a healthy smile for years. At La Jolla Dental Image, Dr. Wali Hamidy and his experienced team are ready to help you achieve optimal oral health with gentle and effective care.

To learn more about root canal therapy or to schedule a consultation, contact our office today at (858) 202-0481. We proudly serve patients in La Jolla, CA, San Diego, and the surrounding areas. New patients are always welcome, and we look forward to helping you achieve a healthy, pain-free smile.