Root Canal Treatments

Root Canal Treaments in Salinas

Root Canals- What to Expect Before, During and After

A root canal is procedure that is necessary when the central core of a tooth, called the pulp, becomes infected from an overlying cavity. This necessitates the removal of the infected pulp and sealing the canal that contains the pulp so that no further infection can occur. There are some things to expect before, during and after a root canal so you know what to expect if this happens to you. 

What to expect before a root canal

A person with a tooth that needs a root canal will often experience spontaneous pain in the tooth that arises without eating or sudden exposure to hot or cold. The surrounding gum tissue around the tooth will also frequently be inflamed as a sign. The surest way to diagnose a tooth that needs a root canal is by an x-ray that will detect any sign of pulp infection.

What to expect during a root canal

If a root canal is needed, then the procedure will consist of applying the dentist applying an anesthetic to the tooth to numb it, drilling into the tooth to form an opening, and then using a root canal file to remove the pulp.The canal is then sealed with a filling material. This procedure has a reputation for being painful, but many times little to no pain will be felt.

What to expect afterwards

After the procedure, the tooth may exhibit some inflammation and sensitivity to pressure for a few days, so taking an anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen may be necessary, as well as chewing on the opposite side of the mouth. Also, teeth that have undergone a root canal frequently become dry and brittle, and so oftentimes a crown is recommended for the tooth in order to stabilize it and keep it from breaking.

Root canals don’t have to be a scary procedure if you know what to expect. Choosing a trusted dentist and following their advice closely can help you through the process in getting back to a healthy smile.

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Root Canal Treatments

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Dr. John D. Verdugo, D.D.S.

General Dentist

Dr. Verdugo is from Tucson AZ where he received his education, graduating in 1970 with a Chemical Engineering Degree. He worked for Chevron for three years before entering UOP School of Dentistry. Since his graduation in 1976, he has practiced in the Monterey-Salinas area and has continued his professional education in Endontics, Implantology, and Restorative Dentistry. He is available weekdays, weekends and evenings. Speaks Spanish.

Dr. Robert P. Zernicke, D.D.S

General Dentist

Dr. Zernicke grew up in Nevada and received his bachelors degree at the University of Nevada. Dr. Zernicke was the sole recipient of the State of Nevada’s scholarship fund awarded for scholastic achievement which gave him the opportunity to attend Dental School at the University of Southern California. He has been practicing dentistry since 1990 both in Southern California and here in the Salinas area since 1996. Dr. Zernicke is trained in all phases of Dentistry from cosmetics to endodontics. He is available weekdays and evenings. Speaks Spanish.

Member of American Dental Association
Member of California Dental Association