A root canal doesn’t have to be a scary or painful procedure. It is a practical solution that can save your tooth and protect the health of your mouth. If you need one to preserve a tooth and protect your dental health, you can count on Valery Sweeny, DDS. From her practice in Silver Lake, California, Dr. Sweeny and her team offer expert root canal treatments to patients from all over Los Angeles. If you are experiencing tooth pain or temperature sensitivity, call or schedule an appointment online today.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure aimed at treating infection at the center of a tooth. This endodontic treatment is necessary when the pulp inside the tooth, consisting of nerves and blood vessels, becomes infected or inflamed.
The Root Canal Process
Our commitment at Valery Sweeny DDS is to ensure your comfort throughout the root canal process:
- Diagnosis: We start with a thorough examination to determine if a root canal is needed.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered for a pain-free experience.
- Pulpectomy: The infected pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned.
- Filling: The cleaned tooth cavity is filled with a biocompatible material.
- Sealing: Finally, the tooth is sealed with a filling or crown to prevent future infections.
Post-Treatment Care
After your root canal, we provide detailed care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. This includes:
- Scheduling follow-up visits to monitor the treated tooth. We can keep an eye out for any issues with the treated tooth, as well as help you maintain your oral hygiene.
- Avoid Eating on the Treated Side: Try not to chew on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored.
- Soft Diet: Soft foods should be your main diet for a few days after the procedure to avoid damaging the temporary filling or crown, as well as minimize discomfort.
- Pain Management: It’s normal after a root canal to experience some discomfort. Use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage pain.
- Oral Hygiene: Continue with regular brushing and flossing, but be very careful around the treated area. Preventing infections can stave off future root canals. Good oral hygiene also promotes healing for your treated tooth.
- Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Hard or sticky foods could dislodge the temporary filling or damage the tooth. Avoid these foods until your permanent crown or filling is placed on your treated tooth.
- Attend Follow-up Appointments: Return to your dentist for any recommended follow-up appointments to have a permanent crown or filling placed, ensuring the tooth is properly sealed and protected.
- Monitor for Symptoms: While some discomfort is normal, if you experience severe pain, swelling, or an allergic reaction to medication, contact our office immediately.
Symptoms that Lead to Root Canals
Be aware of these symptoms that might indicate the need for a root canal:
- Severe toothache when chewing
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Darkening of the tooth
- Swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums
Root Canal FAQ
Is a root canal painful?
With modern techniques and anesthesia, most patients report minimal discomfort, similar to a filling.
How long does a root canal take?
The procedure typically takes one to two visits, depending on the condition of the tooth.
What are the benefits of a root canal?
Root canal therapy saves your natural tooth, prevents the spread of infection, and alleviates pain. By keeping your natural tooth, your bite alignment is not at risk of shifting, and you won’t have to pay for expensive dental implants, bridges, or other ways to fill in the gap between your teeth.
Pricing and Insurance
We believe in transparent pricing and work closely with you to understand the costs and benefits of root canal therapy. Our office accepts a variety of insurance plans and offers flexible payment options to accommodate your financial needs.
Call to Schedule an Appointment Today
If you’re experiencing dental discomfort, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call Dr. Valery Sweeny at 323-669-0339 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a pain-free, healthy smile.
Root canal therapy, while often misunderstood, is a routine and highly effective procedure that can alleviate pain and save your natural tooth. Dr. Valery Sweeny and her team are here to provide you with expert care and support every step of the way.
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SERVICES
LOCATION
3706 Sunset Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90026
Phone: 323-669-0339
Fax: 323-664-8635
OFFICE HOURS
| Monday | 9:00 am – 7:00 pm |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9:00 am – 7:00 pm |
| Wednesday | 9:00 am – 7:00 pm |
| Thursday | 7:00 am – 3:00 pm |
| Friday | 7:00 am – 3:00 pm |
| Saturday | 8:00 am – 2:00 pm |
| Sunday | Closed |
GET IN TOUCH
OTHER LINKS
LOCATION
3706 W Sunset Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90026
Phone: 323-669-0339
Fax: 323-664-8635
GET IN TOUCH
OFFICE HOURS
| Monday | 9:00 am – 7:00 pm |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9:00 am – 7:00 pm |
| Wednesday | 9:00 am – 7:00 pm |
| Thursday | 7:00 am – 3:00 pm |
| Friday | 7:00 am – 3:00 pm |
| Saturday | First of the month. |
| Sunday | Closed |
OTHER LINKS