Root Canal Treatment

Despite being feared by many due to misconceptions, root canal treatments are designed to alleviate pain and save infected teeth from extraction, a local endodontist explains.

Dr. Nerisa Limansubroto, an endodontist at Foundation Dental Specialists in Pasadena, said people should know that modern advancements in endodontic care have made the procedure more comfortable and effective than ever before.

“Endodontic care is basically anything to do with the nerves of the teeth,” Dr. Limansubroto says.

When decay or cracks in teeth allow bacteria to reach the nerve, it can become inflamed or infected, causing pain and potentially an abscess. Root canal treatment cleans out the infected nerve space, initiating the healing process.

Dr. Limansubroto likens the procedure to “a deep filling in the tooth,” using files to clean inside the root “pipes” before sealing them.

Patients are given multiple sedation options for a stress-free treatment experience, and post-operative instructions ensure they know what to expect afterward.

Advancements such as laser-activated irrigation and 3D imaging have improved the procedure’s success.

Advancements such as laser-activated irrigation and 3D imaging have improved the procedure’s success.

“Laser also has really good post-op healing, so patients feel less pain,” Dr. Limansubroto notes.

Scans by high tech cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) yield detailed information and allow endodontists for better treatment planning.

Saving the natural tooth with a root canal offers long-term benefits, over extraction, Dr. Limansubroto said.

“Having your own tooth is always going to be more advantageous,” Dr. Limansubroto explains.

While implants remain an option later, attempting to save the tooth first is usually preferable.

Dr. Limansubroto and her colleagues at Foundation Dental Specialists aim to help patients make informed decisions about their dental care by dispelling misconceptions and highlighting the benefits of modern root canal treatments.

Foundation Dental Specialists, founded in 1974, expanded their practice by integrating a team of endodontists to provide cross-collaborative specialty care alongside periodontists. This comprehensive approach ensures patients receive the best possible treatment to maintain oral health and keep their natural teeth.

Questions? Call Foundation Dental Specialists at (626) 796-5361 or visit https://www.foundationdentalspecialists.com/