Specialized Care to Help You Keep Your Natural Tooth

What Is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment is one of the most common endodontic procedures and one of the most effective ways to relieve tooth pain caused by infection or inflammation. We provide root canal treatment for patients throughout Escondido, San Marcos, Vista, Poway, and North County San Diego.

When the soft tissue inside the tooth, known as the pulp, becomes damaged by deep decay, a crack, or trauma, bacteria can enter and cause significant pain or an abscess. Root canal treatment removes the affected pulp, cleans and seals the canal system, and allows the natural tooth to be preserved rather than extracted.

At Escondido Endodontics, every root canal is performed by a specialist using 3D CBCT imaging and surgical microscopes to evaluate your tooth in detail and complete treatment with precision.

Evaluation and 3D Imaging

Your appointment begins with a clinical exam and CBCT imaging to provide a three-dimensional view of your tooth, roots, and surrounding bone. This allows us to identify the source of your symptoms and plan treatment accurately before anything begins.

Anesthesia

Local anesthesia is administered to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. Most patients report that the experience feels similar to having a filling placed.

Isolation

A small rubber dam is placed around the tooth to keep the area clean and dry during treatment.

Accessing the Pulp

A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth to reach the pulp chamber and root canals.

Cleaning and Shaping

The affected pulp tissue is carefully removed using specialized instruments. The canal system is then cleaned, shaped, and irrigated to eliminate bacteria and prepare the space for filling.

Filling the Canals

The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, which seals the space and helps prevent future infection.

After Your Root Canal

Some mild soreness in the area is normal for a few days following treatment and can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. We’ll provide clear post-treatment instructions and are available to answer any questions during your recovery.

More Endodontic Services

Root Canal Treatment

A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures performed, well over 14 million every year. This treatment can save your natural teeth and prevent the need for more invasive replacement procedures.

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Endodontic Retreatment

With the appropriate care, your teeth that have had endodontic treatment will last as long as other natural teeth. Yet, a tooth that has received treatment may fail to heal or pain may continue to exist. Sometimes, the pain may occur months or years after treatment. If so, Endodontic Retreatment may be needed.

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Endodontic Microsurgery

Generally, a root canal is all that is needed to save teeth with injured pulp from extraction. Occasionally, this non-surgical procedure will not be sufficient to heal the tooth and your endodontist will recommend surgery. Endodontic surgery can be used to locate fractures or hidden canals that do not appear on x-rays but still manifest pain in the tooth.

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Endodontic Resorption Repair

Tooth resorption occurs when the body begins to break down tooth structure from the inside or outside of the root. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment can make a significant difference in preserving the tooth.

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Endodontic Emergencies

Sudden tooth pain, swelling, or trauma to a tooth should not be ignored. We accommodate urgent appointments so you can be evaluated and treated as quickly as possible.

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Cracked Teeth

Cracks in a tooth can extend into the root or pulp, causing pain that is difficult to pinpoint. An endodontic evaluation helps determine the extent of the crack and the best path forward for preserving the tooth.

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Have Questions? Contact Us!

We’re here to help. Reach out to our office, and a member of our team will be happy to assist you.