Endodontics in Vista, CA

Endodontics is a specific branch of dentistry that deals with the inside structures of the teeth. These include the nerves, tissues, pulp, and arterioles that keep the teeth alive and strong.

What Are Common Causes of Inner Tooth Damage?

When a tooth suffers serious trauma from an injury or disease, our dentists perform endodontic therapy to save the tooth and prevent extraction.

These are the most common causes of inner tooth damage:

• Fractures and chips – When a tooth breaks, the nerves and pulp may be exposed. This may cause debilitating pain and discomfort that only root canal therapy can resolve.
• Bacterial infections – After a tooth experiences decay or injury, oral bacteria quickly invade the interior
  structure of the tooth to cause severe inflammation and infection. This requires root canal therapy to remove infected tissues and save the tooth.
• Injuries – We use special techniques to stabilize teeth after they’ve been shifted or dislodged from their sockets.

At Sycamore Dental, we offer root canal therapy and root canal retreatment for patients suffering these types of difficult oral complications.  

Root Canal Therapy

The root canal is the hollow section of each tooth that holds nerves, blood vessels, and lymph tissue. Root canal therapy is often necessary when the tissues inside the tooth are damaged by injury or decay. During root canal therapy, the nerves, blood vessels, and lymph vessels are removed and replaced with a special medicated dental material called gutta-percha.

This process makes it possible to save a tooth that would otherwise die and may cause extreme pain in the mouth. As a common and standard procedure, root canal therapy is highly successful.

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, contact us to request more information about root canal therapy:

• Sudden and severe pain, especially around a specific tooth
• Extreme sensitivity to hot and cold
• Pain when chewing
• Swelling and tenderness
• Abscess on the gums
• Teeth that have turned a different color suddenly or over time
• Loose teeth

By removing the damaged, infected inner structures of your teeth and replacing them with a safe material, root canal therapy at Sycamore Dental prevents tooth loss, eliminates pain, and keeps your smile whole.

Root Canal Retreatment: What You Need to Know

Root canal therapy has a high rate of success, but like every medical procedure, some people experience post-surgical complications that make retreatment necessary.  If you are experiencing discomfort, odd sensations, hot and or cold sensations on a tooth that has been treated with a root canal, please don’t suffer in silence. With an enhanced small field CBCT 3-D scan of the angry tooth, we can identify tiny areas with great detail. After diagnosis of the problem, we can give you options to alleviate your discomfort.

Commonly Asked Questions About Endodontics in Vista, CA

How Long Does A Typical Root Canal Procedure Take?

While the duration varies depending on the complexity of the tooth’s root structure, most root canal treatments at Sycamore Dental are completed in one to two appointments. Generally, you can expect to spend about 60 to 90 minutes in the chair. Our goal is to ensure the procedure is thorough and precise to prevent the need for retreatment later.

Will I Be Able To Drive Home After Endodontic Treatment In Vista?

Yes. Since root canal therapy is typically performed using local anesthesia to numb the specific area, you will remain fully alert and capable of driving yourself home or returning to work. If you have specific anxieties and require additional sedation options, please discuss this with our team during your consultation so we can make appropriate arrangements.

What Should I Expect During The Recovery Process?

For the first few days following your procedure, the treated tooth may feel sensitive as the surrounding tissue heals, especially if there was significant infection or pain prior to the appointment. Most patients manage this mild discomfort with over-the-counter relievers. We recommend avoiding chewing on the treated tooth until your permanent restoration (like a crown) is fully placed.

Is A Root Canal Better Than Extracting The Tooth?

Whenever possible, we prioritize saving your natural tooth. Maintaining your original tooth structure prevents the surrounding teeth from shifting, preserves your natural bite, and avoids the need for more invasive and costly replacements like dental implants or bridges. Root canal therapy is a highly effective way to keep your natural smile intact.