What San Juan Capistrano residents should expect during a root canal procedure

What to expect from a root canal? You are probably thinking one thing: Pain. Think again! Forget everything you've heard about how traumatic this procedure is. It doesn't live up to its bad reputation, especially when you choose skilled and experienced dentists such as Drs. Nina and Alex Basti, who practice gentle dentistry.

Most patients compare the experience to having a tooth filled, except that it takes a little longer. Actually, the two procedures are very similar. The diseased tissue is removed, and the cavity is filled with a biocompatible dental material. The significant difference is that a filling only involves the hard layers of tooth structure. A root canal procedure involves removing soft tissue, known as dental pulp, which is housed in the middle of the tooth.

The steps of the procedure are:

• We will begin by numbing the tooth that is to be treated. With our Wand anesthetic delivery system, most patients never feel the injection!
• Once your tooth is numbed and you are comfortable, your doctor will create a very small opening in the upper portion (crown) of the tooth.
• The injured or infected dental pulp is removed from the canal through this opening.
• The canal is then sterilized with medication to ensure there is no lingering infection or bacteria.
• Once it is infection-free, the canal is filled with a natural, rubbery material called gutta percha, and it is sealed to prevent re-infection.
• The final step of the procedure is restoring the tooth. A filling can be placed in the access opening to finish sealing it, and restore the appearance. However, after root canal treatment a tooth tends to become more brittle. In most cases, a dental crown is recommended to protect the tooth. With our CEREC in-office milling system, this step can often be completed in the same appointment as your root canal treatment.

If think that you may need a root canal treatment, call 949-427-2096 and schedule an appointment with Drs. Basti. Our Mission Viejo office is convenient to San Juan Capistrano, Laguna Niguel, and other area communities.