Root Canals

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a type of oral surgery designed to repair and save a damaged, decaying, or badly infected tooth.

During a root canal, Dr. Vu removes the nerve and pulp from inside your affected tooth. The nerves in your teeth only provide sensory functions, so the procedure doesn’t impact your ability to eat or chew.

Will I know it if I need a root canal?

The only way to determine if you need a root canal is to schedule an appointment with Dr. Vu and the team at ToothScaler Dental. However, certain telltale signs can help clue you in, including:

• Tooth pain
• Tooth sensitivity
• Swollen gums
• Tender gums
• Pimples on your gums

A decaying or damaged tooth might also turn brown or dark yellow in color. 

What is the procedure for a root canal?

Getting a root canal can be done in one or two separate appointments. 

First, Dr. Vu performs an oral exam, reviews your medical history, and asks about the symptoms you’re experiencing. Next, he takes a series of X-rays to determine if there are any signs of infection in your tooth roots or surrounding bone. If Dr. Vu discovers an infection, he moves forward with treatment. 

Next, he administers a local anesthetic to numb the nerves in your gums. To keep the treatment area free of saliva, he places a rubber dam over your affected tooth. After the anesthetic sets in, Dr. Vu drills an access hole in your tooth and cleans out the pulp, debris, and bacteria. 

Dr. Vu then cleans out your root canal and pulp chamber with an antiseptic solution. If an infection is present, Dr. Vu typically waits a week before resealing your tooth.

Finally, Dr. Vu administers a local anesthetic, numbing your teeth and gums. He fills your root canal with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. After the gutta-percha dries, Dr. Vu covers your tooth with a filling, or if the damage is severe, he places a permanent crown.

Last, but not least, Dr. Vu provides you with a list of careful recovery instructions. In the first 24-48 hours after your root canal, it’s perfectly normal to experience some pain and discomfort. However, this should subside quickly.  

For appointment information, call ToothScaler Dental at (408) 262-6301.