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What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a treatment used to remove infection from inside a tooth. Each tooth has a soft center called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. This pulp sits in a space called the pulp chamber and extends through narrow root canals down to the tip of the tooth.
When bacteria enter this space through a deep cavity, crack, or injury, the pulp becomes infected. If left untreated, this infection can cause severe pain, swelling, and bone loss around the tooth. A root canal removes the infection and saves the natural tooth.
Although many people refer to the procedure itself as a “root canal,” the correct dental term is pulpectomy. Today’s root canal therapy disinfects the inside of the tooth and seals it to prevent future infection. This allows patients to keep their natural tooth instead of having it extracted.
Candidates for Sedation Dentistry
If you have neglected your dental health because of apprehension about treatment, Dr. Streelman offers oral sedation, also known as “sleep dentistry”, and IV sedation. Candidates for oral sedation include adults who have:
- High fear
- Previous traumatic dental experiences
- Difficulty getting numb from anesthetic
- Sensitive gag reflex
- Limited time to complete dental care
- Complex dental problems
- Fear of needles and shots
- Aversion to the noises, smells, and tastes associated with dental care
- Embarrassment about their teeth
If you suffer from any of these, Dr. Streelman can help. As a skilled, trusted dentist, he understands patients’ apprehension towards dentistry and uses a gentle touch for all dental treatments provided at his Oceanside office. You may opt for oral sedation if you have experienced any of the above problems and need dental treatment.
How Root Canal Treatment Works
During treatment, the tooth is fully numbed to ensure comfort.
Dr. Streelman then creates a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the infected pulp. Using very fine instruments, he removes the damaged tissue and cleans the canals thoroughly. The space is then filled with a safe, biocompatible material to prevent bacteria from returning.
For complex or hard-to-reach canals, Dr. Streelman uses advanced microscopy to locate calcified or unusual canal shapes. This allows for highly precise and successful endodontic treatment.
After the root canal is complete, most teeth require a dental crown for strength and long-term protection.
Alternatives to a Root Canal
If a root canal is not performed, the tooth will continue to deteriorate.
Common alternatives include:
Tooth extraction, followed by
a dental implant,
a bridge, or
a partial denture.
Saving the natural tooth through root canal therapy is usually the healthiest and most cost-effective option.
Visit Dr. Steven Streelman at his modern Oceanside, CA practice to learn whether root canal therapy is right for you.
Call (760) 439-0600 or request an appointment online to schedule your consultation.