Root Canal Treatment in Sunnyvale, CA

A common belief Sunnyvale patients have is that extraction is the only option for a tooth with internal nerve damage. In some cases, David C. Li, DDS may recommend root canal treatment to save a tooth affected by decay or infection. Through this treatment option, the genuine function of your natural tooth is preserved without altering the rest of your smile. 

When Should You Consider Root Canal Treatment?

The root canal is present inside each tooth, containing the nerves and living tissue, also known as dental pulp, which determine the health of your smile. Potentially irreversible damage can occur to these necessary components when decay and infection occur within this chamber. Infected pulp may be the result of a number of factors, including poor hygiene, cavities, or facial trauma, and can contribute to greater dental health concerns. Root canal treatment clears out sources of harm, conserving your natural dentition while preventing more serious issues from developing.

Some of the patients to our Sunnyvale dental practice were unaware they needed root canal treatment until undergoing a dental exam with Dr. Li. While symptoms may not always be present, David C. Li, DDS recommends seeking immediate professional evaluation if you experience any of the following:

• Injury or trauma to a tooth
• Appearance of pus or an abscess on the gums
• Swelling or tenderness in the tissue surrounding a tooth
• Increased dental sensitivity to hot and cold
• Severe and prolonged toothache

What is Involved in Root Canal Treatment?

A thorough examination at David C. Li, DDS can detect teeth that would benefit from root canal treatment. 

During root canal treatment, the affected tooth is numbed and surrounded by a dental dam to keep the area free of saliva. Specialized dental instruments are then used to create a small hole behind the tooth, through which infected pulp and bacteria is removed.  As part of this comprehensive approach, any dental decay observed during the procedure will also receive care. 

To prevent recurrence of infection, the roots of a treated tooth will be sterilized, sealed, and filled with a biocompatible material called gutta percha. Additionally, a filling will be placed to cover the opening made to access the root canal. In order lend additional strength and cosmetic appeal to teeth that have received treatment, Dr. Li may recommend crown placement.

Following root canal therapy, it is normal to experience moderate sensitivity while the healing process takes place. Patients to David C. Li, DDS should schedule a follow-up visit as soon as possible if this feeling does not eventually subside or becomes more persistent. Even when there are no outstanding issues, routine dental visits allow David C. Li, DDS to provide care that ensures the long-term success of the treatment. 

Our Sunnyvale patients will receive care instructions on maintaining proper at-home habits that will result in the enduring health of their smiles.
Depending on the extent of treatment required, Dr. Li may refer patients to an endodontist to provide specialized care for the soft inner tissue of their teeth.

Contact David C. Li, DDS

To learn how root canal treatment can maintain the health of your existing smile, contact our Sunnyvale dental office today to schedule a consultation visit.

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