Root Canal Treatment Specialist Serving Santa Monica, Los Angeles, CA

The procedure for performing a root canal treatment involves:

• Initial Consult: The specialist will begin with an X-ray to check the root canals’ shape and to identify any signs of infection in the surrounding bone. This step is done to assess the damage and determine the need for root canal treatment.

• Local Anesthesia: To ensure maximum comfort, local anesthesia is applied to numb the area around the affected tooth during the procedure.

• Rubber Dam Placement: A rubber dam is placed around the tooth to keep it dry, preventing contamination during the procedure.

• Access Opening: The specialist will drill an access hole into the tooth to reach the pulp chamber and root canals.

• Pulp Removal: The infected or damaged pulp is then carefully removed using specialized tools called files.

• Canal Cleaning, Shaping, and Disinfecting: The interior of the tooth and root canals are thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and shaped to prepare them for the next step.

• Filling the Canals: A biocompatible, rubber-like material called gutta-percha is used to fill the tooth’s interior. This is often combined with adhesive cement to ensure complete sealing of the canals, and a temporary filling or crown is placed to close the access hole.

• Restoring the Tooth: The treated tooth is often restored with a crown or filling for protection, as it may be fragile after treatment.

Identifying the symptoms of a potential root canal need is essential for prompt treatment. One of the most common indicators is persistent or severe dental pain, especially when eating or applying pressure to the affected area. This pain might extend to other parts of the mouth, such as the jawbone, face, or neighboring teeth, and could present as a dull ache or a sharp, throbbing sensation. If you notice sensitivity to hot or cold foods or drinks that lingers long after exposure, this could be a sign of an issue with the tooth’s pulp.

In addition, experiencing swelling or tenderness in the gums around a specific tooth can indicate an underlying problem. In certain scenarios, this swelling may occur alongside a pimple-like abscess on the gums, which can cause further discomfort. Visible decay or damage to the tooth itself, such as a crack, chip, or deep cavity, can also suggest that the tooth requires root canal treatment. Other symptoms to watch for include a tooth that has become discolored or darkened, persistent bad breath, or an unpleasant taste in the mouth. These can all point to a damaged or infected nerve within the tooth’s pulp.

It’s essential to note that in many cases, there are no obvious symptoms, which is why regular dental check-ups are so important. A dental professional can often detect issues before they progress into a serious problem.

The number of visits you will need to schedule is influenced by the complexity of the case. In most cases, this treatment requires two visits.

• Initial Appointment: During the first visit, our specialists conduct a thorough assessment with X-ray scans to evaluate the tooth’s condition. This appointment focuses on removing the infected or damaged pulp and cleaning and shaping the root canals. The duration of this session can range from 90 minutes to several hours, depending on the tooth’s condition and the complexity of the root canal system. We use local anesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure.

• Subsequent Visits: For more complex cases, additional visits may be needed for further cleaning and disinfection. During these appointments, our specialists will use advanced tools to ensure that any remaining infection is fully eradicated and that the canals are good to go for the filling stage.

• Second Appointment: Typically, a week or two after the initial treatment, we place a permanent filling or crown on the tooth. This shorter session, usually lasting around an hour, involves sealing the canals with gutta-percha to stabilize the tooth and prevent reinfection. The restoration process is essential to protect the treated tooth and restore its function.

The cost of a root canal procedure in Los Angeles typically ranges from $900 to $2000 per tooth without insurance, and this includes the procedure and the permanent filling. However, if a crown is required after the root canal, the cost can increase by $1,000 to $1,500.

Keep in mind that dental insurance can substantially reduce the cost of a root canal procedure, often covering up to half of the total cost. We advise getting in contact with your insurance representative to understand your potential out-of-pocket expenses.

While cost is an important factor to keep in mind, it should not be your only consideration when choosing a provider for your root canal treatment. The experience, reputation, and professional fees of the dentist or endodontist should also be taken into account.

At Le Chic Dentist, we are here if you need a root canal procedure and can answer your questions about the treatment, warning signs of infection, and the cost. Schedule your consultation visit with us today to address your concerns and improve your oral wellness. We are conveniently located at 3755 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90066. We serve patients from Santa Monica Los Angeles CA, Downtown LA, Beverly Hills CA, Inglewood CA, Marina Del Rey CA, Playa Vista CA, El Segundo CA, and surrounding areas.