Root Canal Therapy – Dentist Serving Tarzana, Encino & Woodland Hills

What is a Root Canal?

The space inside the tooth from the center, known as the pulp chamber, that travels down the length of the root to the tip (or apex) is called a "canal," or more specifically, a root canal. Human teeth may have one to four root canals, depending on the anatomy of the tooth. Molars may have 2 to 4 canals, premolarsmay have 1 to 2 canals, cuspidsmay have 1 to 2 canals, and finally incisors generally have 1 canal. Extra canals may branch out from the main canal, called "accessory canals." The number of canals and the anatomy can vary among teeth.

New technology now enables us to perform the procedure virtually pain-free. And once the root canal procedure is complete, it's likely you'll be free of pain afterwards, too!

Root canals are needed when a dental infection, or tooth decay reaches the pulp chamber of the tooth. The infection destroys the nerves located within the root of the tooth, eventually causing the tooth to die. Years ago, the only option for this type of dental problem was a tooth extraction . Now, thanks to dental technology your root canal dentist can save your tooth even there's a major infection!

Rusted Roots?

A toothache or sensitivity is your sign
A root canal may be needed
Save a tooth -- visit a dentist today!

If you're in need of root canal therapy, you may be having trouble eating or sleeping. A toothache or sensitivity to hot or cold is common for those with infected pulp, and you may even have swelling or tenderness in the gums. Your discomfort is a sign you need to see a root canal dentist -- and fast! While toothache remedies may relieve your pain, they won't fix your problem. Pain from infected root canals is often a signal that you need professional dental treatment to save the tooth.

Of course, if you do have any kind of tooth discomfort, it's important not to self-diagnose. Only a root canal dentist can properly diagnose the pain and provide the appropriate treatments.

When serious infection or damage is present, your dentist may refer you to a root canal specialist

If you're in need of root canal therapy, you may be having trouble eating or sleeping. A toothache or sensitivity to hot or cold is common for those with infected pulp, and you may even have swelling or tenderness in the gums. Your discomfort is a sign you need to see a dentist -- and fast! While toothache remedies may relieve your pain, they won't fix your problem. Pain from infected root canals is often a signal that you need professional dental treatment to save the tooth.

Of course, if you do have any kind of tooth discomfort, it's important not to self-diagnose. Only a dentist can properly diagnose the pain and provide the appropriate treatments.

Dr. Ourfalian received extensive training during the years of dental school on root canal treatment and is continuingly taking educational courses in root canal treatment.