Root Canal


A Root canal is needed when the nerve of a tooth is affected by decay or infection. In order to save the tooth, the diseased or damaged pulp (the tissue inside the tooth), nerves, bacteria, and any decay are removed and the resulting space is filled with dental materials, which restore the tooth to its full function.

Having a root canal done on a tooth is the treatment of choice to save a tooth that otherwise would die and have to be removed. Root canal treatment is highly successful and usually lasts a lifetime, although on occasion, a tooth will have to be retreated due to new infections.

Reasons for root canal therapy:

  • Decay has reached the tooth pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth).
  • Infection or abscess have developed inside the tooth or at the root tip.
  • Injury or trauma to the tooth.


What does root canal therapy involve?

A root canal procedure requires one or more appointments and can be performed by a dentist or endodontist (a root canal specialist).

While the tooth is numb, a rubber dam (a sheet of rubber) will be placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free of saliva. An opening is made on top of the tooth and a series of root canal files are placed into the opening, one at a time, removing the pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria.

Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, it will be sealed with either a permanent filling, or temporary filling if additional appointments are needed.

At the next appointment, the roots and the inside cavity of the tooth will be filled and sealed with special dental materials. In addition, all teeth that have root canal treatment should have a crown (cap) placed. This will protect the tooth and prevent it from breaking, and restore it to its full function. After treatment, your tooth may still be sensitive, but this will subside as the inflammation diminishes and the tooth has healed.


Why do I need a root canal?

There are a number of reasons why one of your teeth may need a root canal. These include but are not limited to, a very deep cavity that extends into the nerve, a trauma to the tooth that exposes the nerve, or a crack in the tooth that extends into the nerve of the tooth.

Signs/Symptoms

  • Moderate to severe lingering toothache pain when drinking hot or cold liquids or foods.
  • Moderate to severe pain when biting on a tooth
  • Sensitivity to tapping or pressure on the tooth
  • Toothache that wakes you up in the middle of the night
  • A pimple on your gum that may release pus or blood
  • Radiating pain from one area of the mouth to another

Please contact our office if you have any further questions, or to schedule an appointment !

Sacramento Dentist | Root Canal. Dr. Chang Vong is a Sacramento Dentist.

Vineyard Oaks Dental
Dr. Chang S. Vong, DMD

8940 Vintage Park Dr., Suite 100
Sacramento, CA 95829
Phone: (916) 525-3200 Fax: (916) 525-1361

E-Mail: [email protected]
[email protected]