What is a Root Canal?
Los Angeles Root Canal Therapy: What Is It and Why Do I Need It?
Your dentist may have suggested to you that Root Canal Therapy ( otherwise known as Endodontics ) was needed for a particular tooth. They may have briefly discussed some of the facts concerning the procedures involved in root canal therapy but perhaps you would like some more information.
Years ago, a badly infected tooth, or one that just had significant decay, was doomed to be extracted. Today the majority of these teeth can be salvaged through a procedures utilized by both the General Dentist and the specialist, the Endodontist.
Extraction is truly our last resort!
Some indications of the need for root canal treatment may be:
- Spontaneous pain or throbbing while biting.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold foods.
- Severe decay or an injury that creates an abscess (infection) in the bone.
Root Canal treatment consists of:
- The removal of the infected or irritated nerve tissue (Fig.2) that lies within the root of the tooth. It is this infected pulp tissue that causes an eventual abscess.
- The first step in a Los Angeles root canal is to obtain access to the nerve. This is accomplished by establishing a small access opening in the top of the tooth. It will be done under a local anesthetic. ( Fig. 3 )
- The length of the root canals is determined and the infected pulp is removed.
- At the same visit, the canal where the nerve is located will be reshaped and prepared to accept a special root canal filling material. This filling procedure will probably not occur until your next visit. The number of visits necessary to complete your root canal will depend upon several factors including the number of nerves in the tooth, the infected state of the nerve and the complexity of the procedure. (Fig. 4)
- The final step in your Root Canal will be the sealing of the root canal with a sterile, plastic material, called gutta percha This is done in order to prevent possible future infection.( Fig. 5)
- The tooth will then possibly need a post and core and a crown in order to re-establish normal form and function. This decision will be based upon several additional factors. (Fig. 6)
If treated early, root canals need not be uncomfortable. With the use of local anesthetics, the entire procedure can be totally painless.
Another “ Old Wive’s Tale “ is that by removing the nerve the tooth becomes “ dead “. This is not true. The tooth is very much alive and functioning because it receives a source of blood supply and nerve supply from the surrounding tissues that hold it in place in your jaw bone. The tooth will have no sense of feeling to hot, cold or sweets but will be responsive to biting pressures etc. With the proper restoration the tooth should last as long as your other teeth and can even be used as an anchor tooth for a partial denture or cemented bridge. The success rates for root canal therapy have been reported to be as high as 95%.
Sometimes when there has been long standing infection or abscess, there may be some soreness associated with the first or second root canal visit. If this should turn out to be true you will be given specific instructions to follow to minimize the discomfort. When an infection is present, it may be necessary to take an antibiotic. If pain should be present, analgesics may need to be prescribed. In either case, be sure to call your dental office if either of these problems should arise.
POSTOPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS
- Postoperative discomfort is sometimes experienced after a treatment visit. This is due to irritation of the bone surrounding the tooth and may range from a mild discomfort in the area to an occasional episode of considerable pain. This discomfort will usually maximize in approximately 48-72 hours and then subside. Please avoid chewing on the treated tooth for a few days.
- If a throbbing sensation occurs please keep your head elevated as much as possible and place extra pillows under your head when lying down. Avoid as much as possible any strenuous activity as well.
- If your tooth has been left open to aid in drainage of an infection, please place cotton in your tooth as directed. Do not leave the cotton in the tooth between meals.
- If swelling of the gum is present or should appear after a treatment visit, please rinse the area every 1-2 hours with a solution of warm salt water prepared by adding a teaspoon of salt to an 8 oz. Glass of warm water.
- If swelling of the face is present or should appear, apply an ice pack to the area for 5 minutes every ½ hour.
- If antibiotic medication has been prescribed please take it as indicated until you have finished ALL of the medication. If you encounter any difficulty in breathing or a skin rash, or gastric disturbance should occur, please discontinue the medication and call the office.
- If medication for pain has been prescribed , please take it as indicated. It is important to bear in mind that narcotic medications such as Codeine, Vicodin, Percodan and Demerol may make you drowsy. Therefore, caution should be exercised in operating any potentially dangerous machinery or an automobile.
For more information about Los Angeles Root Canal Therapy
By Arthur Kezian
Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS – 443 N. Larchmont Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90004 (323) 467-2777
Make an immediate appointment
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- marlane meyer4/12/2025Dr. Kezian is an excellent dentist. Knowledgable and efficient, he actually cleans your teeth himself. I think it's because he really enjoys his job, and every open mouth is an opportunity to learn something new. Also, there's an excellent support staff in a lovely Spanish Colonial building in a great location. Winning.read moreread lessLorena Soriano4/10/2025It's a privilege to have access to the level of dental care and professional service that I 've received from Dr. T and family, and staff. I thank them and I appreciate every person there that makes possible a very pleasant visit for dental care time and again.Blessings to the Doctors and the staff, and best wishes for your continued and prosperous practice . You set the standard! Thank you Dr. T!read moreread less
- Andrew Reznik4/10/2025The whole operation is simply the best. I have been a devoted customer for at least 15 years. The office has created veneers to replace a few broken teeth and their work was artistry. They have deep cleaned my gums, replaced crowns and otherwise what could be considered invasive dental procedures. All the while, I am always at ease and confident in all the do. Additionally the office is the most tech savvy operation I’ve ever seen. They have always impressed me with their inclusion of the latest cameras, video demos. I must say they also brilliant at informing me of all costs up front in consideration of insurance etc. But the most important, I enjoy the office. They make me feel welcomed and provide the most excellent care. I always wonder why people fear the dentist. If you are one who does, try Dr. Kezian’s office; you can feel like me, as if I’ve gone to the teeth spa. I leave always with sparkling teeth and knowing my health has been well cared for. Thank you all. Amazing team.read moreread lessHillary Kroll4/10/2025I saw Dr. Steve after a really bad experience with another dentist. He was so compassionate and understanding of the situation. He was incredibly helpful. He is very honest and thoughtful with his treatment. He has restored my faith in dentists! I am so grateful for his care!read moreread less
- diana scribner4/03/2025I was referredcto this dental office and i am truly happy with the referral. Thank dr balacky i lost a crown and over time pain becsme a problem. I had the privilege of meeting narine tashjian, DDS. Prior to meeting dr., I was greeted by desk assistant and offered a beverage while my room was being prepared for me. Very nice, pleasant staff all around you. Had x rays and doctoe thought i may need root canal and new crown. Very nice staff and felt well cared for and comfortable.read moreread lessAngela Ting4/02/2025Honestly cant rave more than enough about Dr. K’s office. He really is a genuine honest doctor. I felt this on my first visit, but as time goes by I honestly feel this office really cares about your dental health. Dr. K always gives you the best option possible meaning he wont try to scam you and pull all your teeth out lol. He saved one of my tooth when all other offices told me I had to get an implant.I’ve had it for a year now and it’s still very strong. I’ve had no issues with it so far. He is very experienced and has a lot of knowledge which is important when it come to dental work. And the office staff are always very kind and professional!read moreread less
- Cris DB3/28/2025The first time I went to Kezian Dentistry it was for an emergency. I got an appointment the same day I called. I was so happy about the visit that I decided to entrust my dental needs to the Kezian doctors. They are outstanding and the staff is absolutely great. I felt comfortable and in very good hands. I highly recommend Kezian Dentistry. I went there very recently for a check up. I had a tooth decay. Dr Steven helped me right away even though his schedule was very busy. Thanks!read moreread less
- Laura3/24/2025I found this place randomly after breaking a molar on a cocoa nib (stay away from those things!) They were able to make an emergency appointment to see me the next day. Dr. Steven Kezian sorted my tooth out with a conservative and cosmetically pleasing approach that I appreciate a lot. I’m uninsured but he was able to bring the price down a little bit to something totally reasonable. He also has a really friendly and caring bedside manner. Even though my appointment was made last minute I didn’t feel my treatment was rushed at all and he took the time to explain every step to me. All in all, even though my dental accident was unfortunate I’m glad it led me to this practice which I will continue to go to for any of my dental needs!read moreread lessBrittany Beane3/24/2025Let’s start with the family practice vibes. Ten out of ten for inviting and warm atmosphere. Not only that, but my original appointment was scheduled with one of their offices at another location (which isn’t open on Saturdays), but I called them and said I actually needed to come in sooner given my level of pain and they got me in on a Saturday at their sister office. Since they’re a family operation, the offices work together to meet your scheduling needs! My experience: Dr. Kezian fixed my broken crown (gave me a great temporary while we wait for the permanent crown to be made) and gave me a filling on another tooth all within an hour and a half. He was thorough, efficient, and communicative throughout the process. He’s also very responsive to how comfortable or uncomfortable you are during the “drilling” portions of the process! Did I mention this was my FIRST VISIT EVER with him? I have been to many dentists over the years and can already tell the quality of his work will prevent me from going back again and again for the same problem, so I’m actually excited to go back and have the permanent crown put in - and who gets excited about dental work!? Highly recommend the Kezian practice to anyone looking for a great dentist!read moreread less
- Emi Curtmola3/23/2025I recently visited Dr. Kezian's Office for the first time, and I couldn’t be more impressed! From the moment I walked in, the staff made me feel welcome and comfortable. The office was clean and had a relaxing atmosphere. Dr. Tashjian was incredibly knowledgeable and took the time to explain everything clearly, making sure I felt at ease throughout my visit. The entire team was professional, friendly, and attentive to my needs. It’s not often that you actually enjoy a trip to the dentist, but Dr Tashjian made the experience pleasant and stress-free. I’m so glad I found them and will definitely be returning for all my dental care needs. Highly recommend!read moreread lessBriana Lee3/23/2025I’ve been a long time patient of Dr. Kezian’s dental clinic in Larchmont, Los Angeles. The first time I walked in, I was greeted by the warm and friendly staff who made me feel right at home. The clinic itself is clean, modern, and comfortable, making each visit a pleasant experience. The team is professional, knowledgeable, and takes the time to explain every procedure, which gave me a lot of confidence in my treatments. I’ve gotten numerous cleanings done, x-rays, fillings, and a custom night guard. You can really feel the personal touch in every aspect of care – from the detailed consultations to the follow-up calls to make sure you're doing well. This is the best dental clinic I’ve been to in California.read moreread less
- Carlos Sanchez Hernandez3/16/2025I feel like a celebrity when I walk in because of the attention of Dr Steven and his staff. They are literally the best. They have the softest touch. They go the extra mile to not only walk you through what’s going on but also show you before and after. I love the attention to detail. I LOVE THIS DENTISTRY. The fact that is family owned is the cherry on top.read moreread less