Root Canal Treatment in Palo Alto

Root canal procedures will remove the diseased dental pulp from the inside of a tooth and relieve the toothache or infections. These treatments will significantly prolong the life of an impaired tooth. Root canal treatment is often the best way to salvage a tooth that would otherwise have resulted in an extraction.

Though the modern tooth replacement options offer solid and durable solutions, they are still no comparison to your natural teeth. At Roshan Emam D.D.S.in Palo Alto, California, patients can be assured of the best and most comfortable root canal treatments.

What Are Root Canals?

A root canal treatment does not involve the removal of the actual roots of a tooth. Instead, a tooth infected or compromised may need to have the inner pulp removed. This inner pulp consists of the nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. When the pulp becomes infected, it may cause a severe toothache, necessitating its removal to get relief. Root canals are widely prevalent procedures and can be done quickly and comfortably in our office. 

When Is a Root Canal Needed?

Tooth decay, cavities, and dental trauma will encourage the harmful bacteria to penetrate a tooth's pulp and cause its infection. In such instances, a root canal treatment will help reinstate your oral health, function, and comfort. Some of the chronic symptoms of an internally damaged or infected tooth include:

• Toothache or jaw pain
• Gum or facial swelling
• Biting discomfort
• Tooth discoloration
• Tooth abscess
• Tooth sensitivity
• Blister-like bump on the gums
• Feeling of pressure in the jaw
• Gum Bleeding

The Root Canal Procedure

Root canal treatment will take about two dental appointments. Before beginning the procedure, Dr. Emam will numb the affected area using local anesthetics. A dental dam is used to shield the area from saliva and oral bacterial contamination. Once this is done, we will make a small opening on the tooth's surface to create a passage, and the infected pulp is extracted. When the pulp is removed, the resultant gap will be packed using a bio-compatible rubbery material called 'gutta-percha.' This material protects the root from further infection by acting as a shield similar to the pulp. The filling is sealed with cement on the surface, finishing off the root canal. If the tooth's surface is severely decayed, we will most probably recommend placing a dental crown for further protection against decay and fractures. The crown can be color-matched with your existing natural teeth to maintain your smile aesthetics.

If you think you need a root canal procedure, visit our office, Roshan Emam D.D.S., at 850 Middlefield Rd. Suite 8, Palo Alto, CA 94301. You can also reach us at (650) 321-0340 and schedule an appointment.