If you have a tooth that has become infected inside, an endodontic procedure, also called a root canal, can be used to remove the infected material and restore your tooth so it continues to function, but without the discomfort, you may have experienced before. It also ensures that the infection won’t threaten your other teeth or spread to your bones or sinuses, which may be life-threatening.
If you suspect you may need a root canal, we encourage you not to wait, but to schedule an evaluation by our Beverly Hills dentist today. Please call (310) 275-5325 or email Nicolas A. Ravon, DDS, MSD for an appointment.
When You Might Need a Root Canal
A root canal is necessary when a tooth has become infected. Although this can only be diagnosed during a dental visit, some common symptoms include:
- Heat, cold, and touch sensitivity in a tooth
- Soreness around a tooth
- Blisters or sores on your gums by a tooth
- Localized warmth in the vicinity of the tooth
- Persistent bad breath that isn’t controllable with oral hygiene
Sometimes, you may not notice the symptoms of an infected tooth, but a thorough examination as part of preventative dentistry can reveal the problem.
Root Canal Treatment
Sometimes it’s the interior of a tooth that has problems while the hard, external surface remains just fine. In these cases, a root canal is what’s called for.
A root canal removes the diseased internal portion of a tooth while preserving the exterior and its existing natural appearance. The end result is your smile looks unchanged on the outside but is now completely healthy on the inside.
Root Canal Re-Treatment
Sometimes a root canal can be unsuccessful and a second treatment is required. Causes can include a tooth not healing as expected, something in the initial root canal anatomy going undetected, bacteria contaminating the inside of the tooth, or new decay exposing the root canal to bacteria and causing new infection. Dr. Nicolas A. Ravon is an expert in retreating failed root canals and recleaning, reshaping, and refilling the tooth as needed for a successful outcome.
Apicoectomy
In the event, a root canal re-treatment fails or is not advised an apicoectomy is often the next course of action. In this treatment, the tooth’s root tip is removed along with any infected tissue ensuring no missed anatomy remains to spread further infection. A filling is then placed to seal the end of the root. This is a state-of-the-art microsurgical procedure with huge benefits.
Should I Get a Root Canal or Dental Implant?
If you are suffering from a painful tooth, it’s natural to want to get rid of it completely and start with a pain-free dental implant. However, it’s often best to try to save your natural teeth first. Recent studies have shown that after 15 years, teeth treated with a root canal have a slightly higher success rate than dental implants. Plus, if you attempt a root canal treatment first, a dental implant can be attempted afterward, but once your tooth is pulled it cannot be put back.
However, in some cases, the state of infection or decay of your teeth may mean that a dental implant is the best option for you.
To get a comprehensive evaluation of your tooth and recommendations for your best treatment, please contact Nicolas A. Ravon, DDS, MSD in Beverly Hills today.
