In addition to forming an abscess, a patient might also:

• Feel swelling around the face, head, or neck.
• Experience bone loss around the root tip
• Experience drainage problems that extend from the tooth root.
• Experience severe toothache, prolonged tooth sensitivity to hot and cold, and swelling of the gums.

The Root Canal Procedure

At Dr. Mohamed Ali’s practice, only the latest dental technology is used to ensure that patients achieve excellent results with less recovery time.  During an initial visit, Dr. Ali takes an X-ray to examine the shape of the root canals and evaluate if an infection is surrounding the bone.

If a root canal is necessary, Dr. Ali will discuss each step of the process for ultimate patient clarity.  The area will be anesthetized so that a patient can relax, and feel comfortable during the procedure.  A rubber dam is placed to surround the tooth and keep the area dry during the treatment.  A surgical microscope is used to analyze the canal and complete the procedure with more precision than traditional methods. The pulp, bacteria, and decayed nerve tissue are all removed from the tooth.  A cleaning solution is then used to flush away any debris in the tooth.

The tooth is then cleaned and sealed so that no additional bacteria can grow in the tooth.  The nerve of a tooth only functions to detect hot and cold temperatures.  When the nerve is removed, the day-to-day function and health of the tooth is not affected.

Additional dental work may be required to further restore the tooth.  A dental crown, crown and post, or other restoration may be necessary to fill or support a weakened tooth.  Dr. Ali will discuss your treatment plan during your appointment to let you know what additional dental work may be required.

For most patients, the procedure feels similar to having a tooth filled, and most can return to normal activities by next day.  Because of the dental technology used in our San Francisco office, patients can experience a treatment that is less painful, more comfortable, and requires less time in the dentist’s chair.

To learn more information about root canals and Dr. Ali’s dental technology, contact our San Francisco office.  Your oral health is of the utmost importance to our dental care staff.