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09
Jul
The six steps involved in using root canal therapy as a treatment for tooth infection
Root canal therapy is the best treatment option for tooth infections. This procedure addresses the infection while keeping the remaining tooth structure in place and avoiding permanent extraction and replacement. At Downtown Dental of Los Angeles, California, our dentists can walk you through the process so there are no surprises!
How do I know if I need root canal therapy?
A consultation appointment is the first step in deciding if root canal therapy is the procedure. This is the first step in the process. Let’s look at the six steps you can expect during your upcoming root canal treatment at our office:
- Consultation appointment and initial evaluation. Before starting the procedure, your dental team in Los Angeles, California, thoroughly examines your tooth to determine if root canal therapy is necessary. This may include taking dental X-rays to assess the extent of the infection and its location.
- Administration of local anesthesia. To ensure that you are fully comfortable and pain-free during the procedure, Drs. Don Mungcal, Alyssa Hanel, and Hussain administer local anesthesia to numb the affected area.
- Creation of an access hole. Once the tooth is completely numb and you are comfortable and without discomfort, our team starts by creating a small access hole on top of it using specialized tools. This allows them to reach the infected dental pulp within the tooth’s inner chambers.
- Diseased tissue removal and canal cleaning. Our associates carefully remove the damaged pulp tissue from the inner root canals using small instruments called files. The canals are then carefully cleansed and disinfected to get rid of any remaining bacteria.
- Filling of the canals. After cleaning, the now-empty root canals are filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This material seals off the canals and prevents future infections.
- Follow-up appointment for permanent restoration. Once your tooth has had time to heal, typically within one to two weeks, you return to our office for a follow-up appointment to check that the procedure was successful and prepare the tooth for the final placement of a dental crown. Dental crowns are often placed over teeth that have recently had root canal therapy, offering an extra layer of strength and protection.
Where can I find a local root canal dentist in Los Angeles, CA?
Drs. Mungcal, Alyssa, and Hussain of Downtown Dental are free to assist new and established patients who need dental procedures to maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. If you suspect a root canal procedure might be the best step towards a healthier smile following the diagnosis of a tooth infection, we welcome you to call 213-863-9464 to request an upcoming appointment at 255 South Grand Avenue, Suite 204. You can also contact us by email office@downtowndentalLA.com
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Dr. Don Mungcal
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Dr. Don Mungcal, a distinguished dentist in Los Angeles, combines over three decades of experience with a deep commitment to patient care. A UCLA graduate, he earned his dental degree with honors from the University of the Pacific Dental School in 1990. Dr. Mungcal has been recognized as a Best Dentist in Downtown by the “Los Angeles Downtown News” for four years in a row and served as an instructor at USC Dental School. As an active member of the California Dental Society, among other prestigious organizations, he continually updates his expertise through extensive continuing education.
