Root canal therapy removes infected or inflamed pulp from inside a tooth, cleans and seals the canals, and saves the tooth. At EverWhite in Brentwood, Los Angeles, root canals are performed under local anesthetic, and same-day emergency visits are available during office hours.
Signs you may need a root canal
- A severe or throbbing toothache
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the trigger is gone
- A darkened tooth
- Swelling or a tender bump on the gum near a tooth
Some infected teeth cause no pain at all and are found on X-rays during an exam.
What happens during treatment
The tooth is numbed and isolated. A small opening gives access to the pulp chamber, the infected tissue is removed, and the canals are cleaned, shaped and sealed. The tooth is then closed with a filling, and a crown is usually placed afterwards to protect it.
Why save the tooth?
Keeping your natural tooth preserves your bite and the bone around it. Removing a tooth usually means replacing it later with a dental implant or bridge.
After your root canal
The tooth may feel tender for a few days, and over-the-counter pain relief is usually enough. Avoid chewing hard foods on that side until your final crown is placed.
In pain right now?
Call EverWhite at (310) 208-0007 for a same-day emergency visit during office hours. After hours, call Zakhor Dental Group’s 24/7 line at (310) 208-0811. More about emergency care.
Visit EverWhite in Brentwood
EverWhite Smile Boutique is a full-service dental office at Brentwood Gardens, 11677 San Vicente Blvd, Suite 300, Los Angeles, CA 90049, close to Westwood, Santa Monica and the Pacific Palisades. We’re open Monday–Friday, 9am–6pm, and Saturday, 9am–2pm. Book online or call (310) 208-0007.