Root Canal Treatments at Dr. Hattar Dental and Orthodontics in Victorville

If the words "root canal" fill you with dread, you're in good company -- but you're also working from an inaccurate preconception. This form of dental therapy, in which a tooth's infected inner pulp is removed and replaced by a sterile substitute material, might sound intimidating, but in fact it's actually no more painful or frightening than having a cavity filled. Modern root canal techniques have made the procedure quicker and more comfortable than ever before -- and that's how we administer it here at Dr. Hattar Dental and Orthodontics.

What Is a Root Canal?

The term "root canal" actually applies to the interior chamber of the tooth, which extends down into the roots. This chamber is filled with a substance called pulp; it also contains tooth's nerve tissue. When decay allows bacteria to penetrate the outer enamel and dentin layers of the tooth, it can infiltrate the pulp, causing the nerve to send out sharp pains, throbbing or aching sensations. Hot or cold foods and drinks can trigger these responses as well. An infection that reaches the base of the roots can create serious abscesses in the jawbone, causing everything from tooth loss to possible systemic infections.

Root canal treatment can free you from this debilitating pain and the risk of complications. The top of the tooth is opened up so our dentist can take out the infected pulp, along with the nerve issuing those pain signals. We then clean the inner tooth chamber as thoroughly as possible to eliminate any trace of harmful bacteria. A sterile material called gutta-percha is used to fill the tooth chamber. A permanent crown or large filling typically caps the final result -- a healthy, pain-free tooth.

What to Expect From Your Root Canal in Victorville

As you might expect from any invasive dental procedure performed at Dr. Hattar Dental and Orthodontics, your root canal in Victorville will be handled with the utmost care and compassion. We administer an injection of local anesthetic to numb the area, just as we would for a cavity filling, so you don't experience any pain during the procedure. You'll wonder why you were ever so afraid of this form of care, especially once you realize that any pain from your diseased tooth has now vanished completely!

Having a root canal doesn't have to be a long, drawn-out procedure. While the number of sessions varies according to how many roots the tooth has, a simple root canal can sometimes be completed in a single appointment. A typical session might take anywhere from 30 minutes to 90 minutes.

Need to Schedule a Root Canal in Victorville?

If you need a root canal in Victorville, put your fears aside and call 760-243-3595 today. Dr. Hattar Dental and Orthodontics can save your tooth, your health, and your quality of life!