Root Canal Therapy: 10 Common Questions Answered by Dr. Rad of 805 Dentistry
At 805 Dentistry in Thousand Oaks, many patients come to me worried when they hear the words root canal. But with today’s advanced techniques, root canal therapy is safe, comfortable, and one of the best ways to save a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted. Below, I’ve answered the top questions I hear from patients about root canals.
1. What is root canal therapy?
Root canal therapy is a dental treatment that removes infected or damaged pulp from inside a tooth. Once the pulp is cleaned out, the tooth is disinfected, sealed, and usually restored with a crown. This procedure allows you to keep your natural tooth rather than losing it to extraction.
2. Why would I need a root canal?
You may need a root canal if bacteria have entered the tooth’s pulp due to deep decay, cracks, large fillings, or trauma. Symptoms often include severe tooth pain, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling in the gums, or a pimple-like bump near the tooth. Without treatment, infection can spread and cause tooth loss or other health issues.
3. Is a root canal painful?
Thanks to modern dental techniques and local anesthesia, root canals are not nearly as painful as people imagine. In fact, the procedure is designed to relieve pain caused by the infection. Most patients say it feels similar to getting a filling, and any soreness afterward is typically mild and short-lived.
4. How long does a root canal take?
Most root canal treatments can be completed in one or two visits, depending on the complexity of the tooth. A single visit may take 60 to 90 minutes, while more complicated cases may require a follow-up appointment. At 805 Dentistry, we use advanced technology to make the process as efficient and comfortable as possible.
5. What happens during the procedure?
First, we numb the area to keep you comfortable. Then, a small opening is made in the tooth so the infected pulp can be carefully removed. The root canals are cleaned, disinfected, and shaped, then sealed with a special material. Finally, the tooth is restored, often with a crown, to strengthen and protect it.
6. Do I always need a crown after a root canal?
In many cases, yes. A crown provides strength and protection for a tooth that may have lost much of its structure due to decay or damage. Without a crown, a treated tooth can be more likely to crack. At 805 Dentistry, I recommend crowns for most back teeth after a root canal, while front teeth may sometimes be restored with a filling instead.
7. How successful is root canal therapy?
Root canal therapy has a very high success rate, often exceeding 90 percent. With proper care, a treated tooth can last as long as your natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are essential to maintaining your restored tooth.
8. What are the alternatives to a root canal?
The main alternative is extracting the tooth. However, tooth loss can lead to shifting teeth, bite problems, bone loss in the jaw, and the need for more complex treatments like implants or bridges. Root canal therapy allows you to keep your natural tooth, which is always the best option when possible.
9. How do I know if I need a root canal?
Only a dentist can confirm if you need a root canal, but warning signs include persistent tooth pain, lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, tenderness when chewing, and changes in gum tissue near the tooth. If you are experiencing these symptoms, schedule an exam at 805 Dentistry right away.
10. Why choose 805 Dentistry in Thousand Oaks for root canal therapy?
At 805 Dentistry, we combine advanced technology with gentle, patient-centered care. I take the time to explain your options and ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. By choosing us, you get expert treatment in a welcoming environment, with a focus on saving your natural teeth whenever possible.
Final Thoughts from Dr. Rad
A root canal doesn’t have to be scary. It is one of the most effective ways to save a damaged tooth and restore your oral health. If you’ve been searching for root canal therapy near me in Thousand Oaks, I invite you to schedule a consultation at 805 Dentistry. Together, we’ll create a treatment plan that gets you out of pain and back to smiling with confidence.
📍 805 Dentistry – Thousand Oaks, CA
🌐 www.805Dentistry.com
📞 Call us today to book your root canal consultation!
