Root Canal in Murrieta & Temecula

What is a root canal?

A root canal is often the final attempt to save a tooth that has been severely damaged by injury, decay, or infection. Our patients for a root canal procedure are often referred to us by general dentists; however, we also see many patients who contact us when they are experiencing severe tooth pain and suspect they may need a root canal.

What is a root canal procedure?

The root canal procedure involves creating a small opening in the tooth to allow a root canal specialist to access the infected or inflamed pulp, which is composed of living tissue, including blood vessels and nerves. The pulp is removed, and the canals of the tooth root are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to remove all traces of infection. The tooth roots are filled with gutta-percha (a type of dental putty) to help maintain the structural integrity of the tooth, and a cap is placed on the tooth to prevent reinfection. It is a nearly pain-free procedure that we perform daily in our office.

Does a root canal hurt?

The cheeks, gums, jawbone, and teeth are all numbed before beginning your root canal treatment. The actual treatment is performed while the area is numb, so you do not feel any pain. Following a root canal, you may experience some bleeding, and your cheek may be slightly swollen and tender for a few days. This can be easily controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses, such as ice packs.

The beauty of a root canal is that it almost immediately stops the pain of a severe toothache caused by infection or damage to the pulp deep within the tooth. Once the infection, living pulp tissue, and throbbing nerves have been removed from inside the root’s canals, any pain is dramatically reduced. Any discomfort due to the procedure is minimal and typically fades away within a few days, allowing you to enjoy a lifetime of pain-free eating, drinking, and smiling with your natural tooth.

Root Canal Before and After

Healthy Tooth

Tooth Anatomy

Inflammation

Cleaned Canals

Filling Placed

Healed Tooth

Root Canal Procedure Steps

1. Checking the Tooth: We take X-rays to visualize the roots of your tooth and determine the source of the problem.
2. Numbing the Area: The area around your tooth is numbed with a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort.
3. Opening the Tooth: We make a small opening on top of the tooth to reach the inside.
4. Cleaning the Canals: The infected or dead tissue is gently removed, and the inside of the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
5. Filling the Space: The cleaned and shaped root canals are filled with a safe, rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This step seals the space to prevent infection or reinfection, as some teeth we treat may be inflamed rather than infected. By securely filling the root, we help protect the teeth and promote long-term oral health.
6. Closing the Tooth: We may place a temporary filling to protect the tooth until a permanent crown or filling is done.
7. Final Restoration: Later, your dentist will place a crown or permanent filling. This step strengthens your tooth and protects it against reinfection.

Cost of a Root Canal

The cost of a root canal near you varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of the procedure, the severity of the tooth damage, whether sedation is required in addition to anesthesia, and other variables. To obtain an accurate estimate of the cost for your root canal treatment, please consult one of our root canal specialists.

To learn more or schedule a consultation with one of our root canal specialists, please get in touch with Rancho Endodontics at Rancho Endodontics Phone Number 951-677-7322.

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