Comprehensive Root Canal Therapy at Valley Smiles, Chatsworth CA

At Valley Smiles, we are dedicated to preserving your natural teeth with advanced restorative dentistry. Root canal therapy is one of the most important procedures we offer, designed to save a tooth that has been compromised by deep decay, infection, or trauma. Our specialist, Vage Markaryan, guides patients through a comfortable and effective treatment process to restore their oral health and function.

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Root Canal Therapy Explained

A root canal is a procedure used to treat an infected pulp, the soft tissue inside your tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. Bacteria can enter the pulp through decay, cracks, or injury. An infected pulp can become inflamed and painful, leading to an abscess or even tooth loss if left untreated.

The therapy involves removing the infected pulp, then cleaning, disinfecting, and sealing the tooth's inner canals. A crown is typically placed on the tooth afterward for added strength. This process relieves pain and allows you to keep your natural tooth for many years. Thanks to modern advancements, root canal therapy is now an efficient and virtually painless treatment for saving teeth that might otherwise need extraction.

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Signs You May Need a Root Canal

While a full dental exam is needed for a diagnosis, certain symptoms may indicate pulp damage or infection:

• Persistent or throbbing tooth pain, especially when chewing.
• Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
• Swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums.
• Discoloration or darkening of the tooth.
• An abscess or "pimple" on the gums near the affected tooth.

If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment right away. Prompt treatment can prevent the infection from spreading and may save your tooth from extraction.

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What Will Happen During Your Root Canal?

At Valley Smiles, your comfort is our top priority. We perform every step of a root canal with precision and care.

• Thorough Evaluation: Vage Markaryan will conduct a complete examination of the damaged tooth, using digital X-rays to understand the extent of the infection and plan the best treatment approach.
• Local Anesthesia: We will numb the area with a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort. Most patients report feeling no more than they would during a routine filling.
• Accessing the Pulp: A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth to access the infected pulp. Specialized instruments are then used to carefully remove the diseased tissue.
• Cleaning and Disinfecting: The inside of the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, shaped, and disinfected to eliminate all bacteria.
• Sealing the Canals: The canals are filled with a biocompatible material called "gutta-percha" and sealed to prevent any future infection.
• Restoring the Tooth: A crown or filling is placed over the tooth to restore its structure and strength, making it look and function like normal for years to come.

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Post Treatment Care in Chatsworth CA

Proper care is important for ensuring the success of a root canal. After treatment, patients may experience mild pain or sensitivity for a few days. Our clinic offers specific instructions to help you recover smoothly:

• Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it is fully restored with a permanent crown.
• Maintain good oral hygiene with gentle brushing and flossing.
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers as needed.
• Attend all follow-up appointments to complete your restoration.

Following these steps helps ensure the long-term stability and functionality of the treated tooth.

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First Visit

Valley Smiles understands how daunting going to the dentist for the first time can be, which is why we take extra steps to ensure that your experience is welcoming and free from stress.

Your first visit generally involves:

• A thorough consultation and discussion of your dental history.
• A full examination, including digital imaging if necessary.
• A personalized treatment plan tailored to your dental needs.

Patients are asked to bring the following:

• All recent dental X-rays.
• A list of the patient's medications and known allergies.
• Dental or medical insurance information.
• Underage patients must have a parent or guardian accompany them to the appointment.

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Schedule Your Consultation

If you are experiencing tooth pain or have been told you need a root canal, don't wait. Contact Valley Smiles today to schedule a consultation.