Save Your Tooth From Extraction
The root canal is the inner chamber of your tooth that holds nerves and blood vessels, also known as pulp. If decay spreads into the pulp of your teeth, your root canal can become infected. This often leads to severe pain and eventual tooth loss without treatment.
With root canal therapy, Dr. Cooper & Dr. Pham can eliminate your pain and save your natural tooth. Explore our guide to learn more about this treatment and how you can benefit.
Signs You May Need Root Canal Therapy
If you’re suffering from any of the following symptoms, call our practice right away:
- Severe toothache
- Extreme sensitivity to hot and cold
- Pain while chewing
- Discolored tooth
- Swollen and tender gums around the tooth
How Root Canal Therapy Works
To begin your treatment, we’ll apply a local anesthetic to numb the area around your infected tooth. Next, he’ll create an opening in the tooth so he can remove the infected tissue and fill the empty root canal with a special dental resin. This material will help to guard against further infection and keep your tooth healthy.
After this is complete, your dentist will reseal your tooth and place a dental crown to protect it. Our crowns are custom-made from durable, natural-looking porcelain to restore the strength and appearance of your tooth. Once the crown is secure, your pain will be gone and the health of your tooth will no longer be threatened by decay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does root canal therapy hurt?
Many patients assume that root canal therapy is painful, but this isn’t accurate. We’ll numb your tooth before the procedure and ensure you feel comfortable throughout. In fact, avoiding treatment for an infected root canal will lead to far more pain and discomfort.
Should my tooth hurt a week after the procedure?
Some patients experience mild discomfort after the procedure is finished, but this should fade quickly. If you’re still feeling pain a week after treatment, call our office so Dr. Cooper or Dr. Pham can evaluate your case.
What is a hot tooth?
Bacteria can wear down the enamel of your teeth and leave your nerves exposed. This can cause heightened sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
How can you tell if a tooth is dead?
A dying tooth will typically become severely discolored — it may appear yellow, brown, gray, or even black. You’ll likely also suffer from toothaches and gum pain.
How do I know if the nerves in my tooth are dead?
The edges of your teeth contain nerve endings that are extremely sensitive. As a result, you’ll feel severe pain when a nerve dies.
Can root canal therapy cause headaches?
If you’re suffering from headaches or any other type of debilitating pain after root canal treatment, contact us right away.
How long does root canal therapy take?
Root canal therapy is typically completed in just one appointment, though larger infections may require additional visits.
Visit Contemporary Dental Arts for Root Canal Therapy
If the pulp of your tooth is infected, don’t hesitate to get the help you need. Dr. Cooper and Dr. Pham can relieve your pain and save your tooth from extraction with root canal therapy. Rest assured, he can provide safe and comfortable treatment that will improve the health of your smile.
Call our office in San Jose at (408) 253-4150 and schedule a consultation today.