Saving Your Natural Tooth — Without the Stress

Root canal treatment has a reputation that’s outdated and undeserved. With modern dental techniques, the procedure is fast, comfortable, and often the best way to relieve tooth pain while preserving your natural smile.

If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity or have been told you need a root canal, this guide clears up the misconceptions and walks you through what to expect — especially if you’re seeking treatment in Brentwood or the surrounding West Los Angeles area.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a restorative dental procedure that removes infected or inflamed pulp tissue from inside a tooth. After the canals are cleaned and sealed, the tooth is typically protected with a custom crown.

This treatment is recommended when a tooth’s nerve has been affected by:

Deep decay
Trauma or cracks
Repeated dental procedures
Infection or abscess formation

When treated early, a root canal can stop pain, prevent tooth loss, and preserve the alignment of your bite.

Common Myths About Root Canals

Let’s set the record straight on a few of the biggest misconceptions:

🦷 Myth: Root canals are painful.

✅ Fact: Modern root canals are no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Anesthetic and advanced tools make the process efficient and pain-free.

🦷 Myth: It’s better to extract the tooth.

✅ Fact: Preserving your natural tooth helps maintain bone structure, chewing strength, and a natural-looking smile — often avoiding more complex procedures like implants or bridges.

🦷 Myth: Root canals don’t last.

✅ Fact: With proper care and restoration, root canal-treated teeth can last decades.

Signs You Might Need a Root Canal

Not all tooth pain means you need a root canal — but here are symptoms that might indicate it’s time for an exam:

Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
Persistent toothache or pressure pain
Discoloration of a tooth
Swelling or tenderness in the gums
A small bump or “pimple” on the gum (sign of abscess)

If you’re experiencing any of these, schedule a diagnostic appointment. At Dental Design of Brentwood, we use digital imaging to detect infections early and minimize discomfort.

What Happens During Root Canal Treatment?

Here’s what to expect:

Local anesthesia is applied for a completely numb experience
A small opening is made in the tooth to access the pulp
Infected tissue is gently removed, and the canals are cleaned
The canals are filled with a biocompatible material
A temporary or permanent filling is placed
A dental crown is typically added in a follow-up to protect the tooth

At our Brentwood office, we use modern rotary instruments and 3D imaging to make the process faster and more precise than ever before.

What Is Root Canal Recovery Like?

Recovery is usually straightforward and mild:

Expect slight soreness for a day or two — most patients return to work the next day
Avoid chewing on the treated side until your final crown is placed
Stick to soft foods for 24 hours if needed
Brush and floss normally, but be gentle near the area

Any discomfort is typically managed with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen.

Why Choose Root Canal Therapy Over Extraction?

Saving your natural tooth means:

Preserving your bite and chewing ability
Preventing nearby teeth from shifting
Maintaining jawbone support
Avoiding more invasive or costly replacements

In most cases, root canal treatment is the most conservative option — especially when supported by a strong, long-lasting crown.

📍 Root Canal Treatment in Brentwood, Los Angeles

If you’re located in Brentwood, Westwood, or the West Los Angeles area, Dental Design of Brentwood offers expert root canal care in a calm and comfortable setting. Dr. Maurice K. Masliah and Dr. Eva Hogan focus on efficient procedures, clear communication, and long-term results — so you can get relief without stress.

Schedule a Consultation Today!

If you’re in pain or think you may need a root canal, we’re here to help. Book a personalized exam to get answers, explore your options, and protect your smile.

📞 310.820.5703 | 📅 Schedule Your Consultation Here