Root Canal in Santa Maria, CA

The Steps for a Root Canal Procedure

A root canal is a treatment used to save a tooth that has become damaged because of decay or trauma. It involves removing the damaged portion of the tooth, cleaning it, and then filling it with a rubber-like substance called gutta-percha to protect it from future damage. The tooth is then sealed with a crown to return it to a normal appearance and enhance its function. 

The process begins with you coming in for your appointment. X-rays are taken to determine the extent of damage to the tooth and to determine if all of the infection can be cleaned out. Local anesthetic is applied to numb the area and prevent pain during the procedure.  

Once you are ready, our dentist will open up the tooth and remove any decayed or damaged portions. They will then shape the inside of the tooth to make room for the filling and will fill it with a sealer. The tooth will then be closed with a temporary restoration until your permanent one is ready to be placed. Our dentist will check to make sure everything fits properly before bonding the permanent crown in place. 

You can think of a root canal procedure as getting a cavity filled, except that your tooth’s nerve is also removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned thoroughly. The procedure may take one or two visits to the dentist’s office to complete. After the procedure, it is important to take care of your oral health by brushing and flossing regularly, as well as visiting the dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning.