What Is a Root Canal?

What To Expect From A Root Canal

A root canal is an endodontic procedure used to clean and restore an infected tooth. To this day, the term carries with it the outdated and largely inaccurate stigma of being an unpleasant and even painful experience. This simply is not the case. Having the procedure done today is quick and painless. In fact, you will likely be back to work or school the very same day.

WHAT IS A ROOT CANAL?

This is a type of endodontic procedure performed in order to remove bacteria from an infected tooth and to prevent the reinfection of the tooth.

In order to better understand the procedure, it will help to know a little about the different layers that make up a tooth.

Beneath the enamel layer of our teeth is a layer of dentin, another hard material. Underneath the dentin, however, is a layer of soft-tissue containing connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. This part of the tooth is called the pulp. While the pulp is important for tooth development, it is this inside area of the tooth that is susceptible to inflammation and infection. Fortunately, teeth that are fully formed no longer need this soft-tissue layer to remain healthy and functional.

During the procedure infected or inflamed pulp is removed from the inside of the tooth. After being cleaned and disinfected, the tooth is then filled and sealed.

The advantages of having this endodontic procedure, should you need to, are significant. They include, but are not limited to:

• Natural Tooth Appearance
• Efficient Chewing
• Protects Surrounding Teeth
• Return to normal Biting and Sensation

IS IT PAINFUL?

Don’t let the fear of pain keep you from restoring your mouth to health. As mentioned earlier, the notion that this procedure is a painful one is outdated. Endodontic procedures today are performed under anesthesia. As such, you can expect to experience no more or less discomfort than you feel having a tooth filled, or having a wisdom tooth extracted.

As with the removal of a wisdom tooth, you will likely experience a mild discomfort and even soreness for a few days following the procedure.

SIGNS YOU MAY NEED ENDODONTIC WORK

A cracked tooth, irritation around an existing filling, and/or lingering sensations after eating or drinking something hot or cold can all be signs that you are in need of endodontic work. Here are a few more signs:

• Severe Pain When Chewing and Biting
• Darkening of Gums
• Swollen or Tender Gums
• Pimples on the Gums

If you are in Gardena and experiencing any of the above symptoms you should see a Gardena dentist right away to find out if you need endodontic work. An untreated tooth infection can spread to other parts of the body and even become life-threatening.

BACK TO WORK (OR SCHOOL) THE SAME DAY

Many people wonder how long it will take to recover from this procedure. Will you be able to return to work or school the next day?

While it is likely the affected area will remain numb for two to four hours following the procedure, most people are able to return to work or school the very same day. Keep in mind, though, it is not recommended that you eat or chew on anything until all of the numbness is gone.

HOW MUCH WILL THE PROCEDURE COST?

The cost of this procedure will vary based on a number of factors. Which tooth is affected, what percent of the cost your insurance will cover, and what your dentist or endodontist charges will all affect the price of the procedure.

It should be noted that the cost of this procedure is usually less expensive than opting for an extraction. Extracted teeth need to be replaced with either an implant or a bridge in order to fully restore chewing function.

If you think you need an endodontic procedure don’t let cost keep you from getting the work you need. Many Gardena dentists and endodontists (like dentist and endodontists all over the country) offer payment plans for which you may qualify. Also, it should be noted that the cost of not getting the work you need will be far more than the cost of the procedure itself.

HOW THE PROCEDURE WORKS

This is an endodontic procedure that requires a number of steps. The first step in the process is the removal of all infected and/or inflamed pulp within the tooth. Once this has been accomplished, the dentist or endodontist performs a careful cleaning and disinfection of the inside of the tooth. Next, a rubbery sealing material called Gutta Percha will be used to fill the disinfected canal. Finally, a filling or crown is placed, restoring the tooth to full function and normal appearance.

WILL MY TREATED TOOTH REQUIRE A CROWN?

Location of the treated tooth is a major factor in whether or not your treated tooth will require a crown. Teeth that are used more for chewing, molars (and premolars) for example, often require crowns. Incisors and canine teeth may not require a crown, though circumstances vary from patient to patient.

WILL MY TOOTH REQUIRE ANY ADDITIONAL TREATMENT?

Many patients wonder if any additional treatment will be required following the procedure. The vast majority of the time the answer to this question is no. While there are exceptions (such as when a small bit of pulp is left behind in a previously inaccessible curve of the canal) normally a restored tooth will last just as long as a natural tooth.

While additional treatment is usually not required, a general follow-up visit usually is. It is not uncommon to experience an uneven bite immediately following this procedure. During the follow-up visit, your endodontist can address this, any side-effects you may be experiencing as a result of medication prescribed, and any other issues you may have.

If you’re worrying because your endodontist has prescribed a root canal, you can stop. This simple and effective endodontic procedure is performed every day. Each year millions of teeth are repaired in this way. The experience, which is fast, relatively painless, and efficient, will result in a host of benefits including maintaining your natural smile and being able to continue eating the foods you enjoy. Having this procedure done when necessary will also help alleviate the need for ongoing dental work.

Original article: https://southbaydental.com/root-canal-explained/

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14011 Van Ness Avenue - Gardena, CA 90249

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Understand Teeth, Their Conditions and Treatment- 04 – What’s involved with Getting a Dental Implant

What’s Involved With Getting A Dental Implant

If you’re missing any of your natural teeth or need to have some removed, dental implants can give you the look of your original teeth. An implant is made up of a fixture, an abutment and a prosthesis. The fixture is a screw that’s inserted into the jawbone, and the abutment is a connector that fits on top of it to securely attach the prosthesis. The prosthesis is the artificial tooth. These are the steps involved in the process of getting an implant.

Tooth Removal

You may need one, several or all of your teeth removed. The screws can be placed when your jaw is healed. If you had your teeth removed in the past and your mouth is already healed, the dentist evaluates your jaw to see if the bone is able to hold implants.

Bone Grafting

If your jaw has insufficient or deteriorated bone tissue, you may need minor or major bone grafting first. Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that involves putting bone tissue in deficient areas to build it up and make it stronger. It may take several months for a bone graft to heal. If minimal grafting is required, the screws may be placed at the time of

grafting in some cases. If your jawbone doesn’t require grafting but you recently had teeth removed, the dentist places the implant screws during a minor surgical procedure after your mouth heals from the removal of your teeth.

Fixture Bonding

The implantologist puts the fixtures in your jawbone, and it takes time for the bone tissue to bond with them. Bonding is important since it makes the implant screws strong enough to support the force of biting down.

Abutment Placement

When your jaw’s soft tissue is healed, healing caps are attached to the screws. This is a separate procedure that involves a small incision to expose each of the screw tops. After the gum heals around the caps, the caps are removed and replaced with abutments.

Prosthesis Attachment

Once the abutments are in place, an implantologist makes molds of any teeth that will be replaced. The artificial teeth are then attached. It’s important for the dental implants to match the form of your original teeth to ensure comfort and stability when you bite or chew.

There are other considerations that affect what’s involved with getting a dental implant. For example, you must discuss whether removable or fixed artificial teeth are better for your needs. A fixed prosthesis is cemented to the abutment, and you can take off a removable one to clean it. As your implantologist, I’ll help you make the right decision and will answer any of your questions about the dental implant process.

Visit our site at www.southbaydental.com or call us at: (310) 327-0404

How to Maintain Results after Teeth Whitening

Your smile is often the first thing others notice about you, which is why there has been an increase in the demand for cosmetic dental treatment in recent years. One of the quickest and most efficient ways to improve the appearance of your smile is teeth whitening. With many whitening options, including in-office and take-home services, it’s easy to achieve the results you want.

After a patient undergoes a teeth-whitening, they’re often concerned with how to maintain their bright new smile. Because teeth whitening is not a permanent cosmetic improvement, here are some ways in which you can prolong your results:

1. Avoid Food and Beverages That Stain Teeth
Many of the foods and beverages we love work against our cosmetic goals and create surface stains that are yellow in tint. Some of these dietary choices include coffee, tea, red wine, soft drinks, and berries. If you do enjoy these often, it’s best to rinse your teeth immediately after.

2. Drink Through Straws
Some beverages are best enjoyed through a straw, and those include drinks that are highly pigmented, such as cola and black tea. Exposure to these liquids can be lessened when a straw is used.

3. Reduce Eliminate Habits That Harm Tooth Enamel
Patients who smoke have heard a thousand different ways their habit impacts their health, but what they may not consider is the impact smoking has on their teeth. Smoking can cause dental enamel to appear dark or yellow, at a minimum.  If you’re considering teeth whitening treatment, it’s also best to evaluate ways to limit smoking or kick the habit altogether.

4. Eat Fibrous Foods
Fruits and veggies that are high in fiber actually scrub the surface of teeth as you chew. What’s more, these foods boost saliva production, which helps clean teeth. Keep in mind that some fruits are naturally high in sugar, so it’s still recommended that you rinse after eating them.

5. Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene
As with all aspects of dental health, proper oral hygiene has a significant impact on the way your smile looks as well. Taking proper care of your smile, including brushing at least twice a day, can help maintain the results of your teeth whitening treatment.

Are you interested in obtaining a brighter, whiter smile? The team at South Bay Dentistry and Orthodontics offers treatment options that meet your unique needs. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!

Which Mouthwash is Best for Me?

Picking the Right Mouthwash For Your Teeth and Gums

Brushing​ and flossing ​your teeth is very important, and most people also use some kind of mouthwash as part of their oral health regimen.  It prevents bad breath and promotes healthy teeth and gums. The question of what mouthwash is the best one to use always tends to come up. We will break down the answer below in a few easy-to-follow sections. This will help you to determine your needs.

Fluoride​ Mouthwash ​
This is important to help prevent tooth decay. This type of mouthwash also works to prevent cavities​ and lower thermal sensitivity if used regularly​. It helps to strengthen your teeth and the enamel.

Freshening the Breath
These contain no alcohol​ and include special ingredients to hinder bacterial growth in the mouth, reducing gingivitis and bad breath.  ​This option does exactly what it implies and is good for patients who have bad breath after brushing. ​It is always important to get​ regular dental check up and teeth cleaning to keep your mouth and teeth in optimal health, which saves you a lot of money and time in a dental office in the long term.

The Antibacterial Option
Are you concerned with bad breath and gum disease? This is going to be a good one to use. This mouthwash does what all the others above can do, but it takes it one step further.

This product can be bought over-the-counter. It is more concentrated than the ones your dentist may prescribe for you. As a precaution, ask your dentist before you use this mouthwash.

Contact Green Dental & Orthodontics for more information.

Are you having issues with your teeth and gums? Contact Green Dental & Orthodontics to speak with a dentist right away.