Root canal therapy in Los Angeles, CA: what to expect

Root canal therapy in Los Angeles, CA is a conservative way to save an infected or badly damaged tooth. At Leith K Shawaf DDS, treatment focuses on removing infection, relieving pain, and protecting the natural tooth so you can chew comfortably again. Patients in Los Angeles, California often choose a root canal to avoid extraction and preserve their smile.

Root canal therapy explained

A root canal treats inflammation or infection inside the tooth, called the pulp. Deep cavities, cracks, trauma, or repeated dental work can allow bacteria to reach the pulp, causing pain and sensitivity. Without care, the infection can spread to the bone and lead to an abscess. A root canal removes the diseased tissue, disinfects the canals, and seals the space to prevent reinfection. Many people ask what a root canal is and how it works; the procedure is designed to stop infection while keeping your natural tooth in place.

Signs you may need treatment

• Persistent toothache that throbs or worsens when you chew or lie down.
• Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold that lasts after the stimulus is removed.
• Swelling or tenderness in the gums near a specific tooth.
• Darkening or discoloration of the tooth compared with neighbors.
• A small pimple-like bump on the gums that may drain fluid.
• Pain that wakes you at night or requires pain relievers to manage.

How root canal therapy can help

Choosing a root canal has clear advantages when the nerve is infected. It addresses the source of pain and protects your oral health without removing the tooth. The benefits of root canal therapy include comfort, function, and long-term stability.

• It stops infection at the source and helps prevent spread to other areas.
• It relieves pain caused by inflamed or infected pulp tissue.
• It preserves your natural tooth, which helps maintain normal chewing forces.
• It supports jawbone health by keeping the tooth in place.
• It can be more cost-effective and simpler to maintain than replacing a missing tooth.

The root canal process

The steps are methodical and designed for comfort. Local anesthesia keeps the tooth numb during the visit.

• Assessment and imaging: X-rays pinpoint the infection and map the canals.
• Isolation: A thin rubber dam keeps the tooth dry and protects your airway.
• Access: A small opening allows gentle entry to the pulp chamber.
• Cleansing: Fine instruments and disinfecting rinses remove infected tissue and bacteria.
• Shaping and sealing: The canals are shaped, dried, and filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha.
• Restoration: A temporary or permanent filling seals the opening. Many back teeth later receive a crown for strength.

What to expect before and after treatment

Before your appointment

Expect an exam, X-rays, and a discussion of findings, options, and risks. Anti-inflammatory medication may be recommended unless contraindicated. If there is significant swelling, antibiotics may be used alongside treatment.

Aftercare and recovery

Most people return to routine activities the same day. Mild soreness for 24 to 48 hours is common and usually managed with over-the-counter pain relievers as advised. Avoid chewing on the treated side until a final restoration is placed. A crown is often recommended for molars and premolars to prevent fractures after a root canal. With good home care and regular checkups, a root canal tooth can last many years.

Tip: Call if you experience swelling that worsens, pain that does not respond to medication, or a loose temporary filling.