Understanding Root Canal Therapy: What to Expect in Sacramento, CA

When you hear the words "root canal," it might send a shiver down your spine. But at Smiles Dental Studio in Sacramento, CA, we're here to clear up the myths and put your mind at ease. Dr. Neelofar Khan and our caring team want you to feel confident about your dental care. In this blog, we'll walk you through what root canal therapy really is, why it’s necessary, and what you can expect during the procedure.

What Is Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy is a dental procedure that saves your tooth when it's damaged or infected. Inside your tooth, there's a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. If the pulp gets infected due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma, you might experience pain and swelling. Without treatment, the infection can spread, leading to more serious problems.

Root canal therapy removes the infected pulp, cleans the inside of the tooth, and then seals it to prevent further issues. This process helps relieve pain and save your tooth, so you can keep smiling with confidence.

Signs You Might Need a Root Canal

Wondering if you might need a root canal? Here are some common signs to look out for:

• Persistent Tooth Pain: Ongoing pain that doesn’t go away, especially when eating or drinking, could be a sign of infection.
• Sensitivity to Hot or Cold: If your tooth aches when you eat hot soup or drink ice water, it might be more than just sensitivity.
• Swollen Gums: Swelling or tenderness around the tooth can indicate an infection.
• Darkening of the Tooth: A tooth that becomes darker than the others might be suffering from pulp damage.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to schedule a consultation with Dr. Khan to discuss your options.

The Root Canal Procedure: Step by Step

At Smiles Dental Studio, we know that understanding what to expect can help ease any anxiety. Here’s a simple breakdown of the root canal procedure:

1. Numbing the Area: First, we’ll use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the affected tooth, so you won't feel any pain during the procedure.
2. Removing the Infected Pulp: Dr. Khan will make a small opening in the top of your tooth and carefully remove the infected or damaged pulp.
3. Cleaning and Shaping the Canal: Next, we’ll clean out the inside of the tooth, ensuring that all infection is removed. The canal will then be shaped to prepare for filling.
4. Sealing the Tooth: After cleaning, the canal is filled with a special material to seal it off from future infections. Sometimes, a crown is placed on top for extra protection and strength.
5. Recovery: After the procedure, you might feel some mild discomfort, but this should go away within a few days. Dr. Khan will provide you with aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

Don't Wait to Seek Help

If you’re experiencing any tooth pain or suspect you might need a root canal, don’t wait until it worsens. Early treatment can save your tooth and relieve your discomfort. At Smiles Dental Studio in Sacramento, CA, Dr. Neelofar Khan and our dedicated team are here to provide gentle and effective care.

Ready to find relief? Call us today at (916) 860-7604 or visit our website at smilesdentalstudio.com to book your appointment. Let us help you get back to living pain-free!