Pain Relief and Tooth Preservation in One Visit
Endodontic Treatments in Palo Alto
When the inner tissues of your tooth become infected or damaged, specialized care is needed to save the tooth and relieve your pain. That’s where endodontic treatments come in. At Beckstead Dental Group, our experienced team provides compassionate, advanced endodontic care to help you preserve your natural teeth and restore your oral health.
As trusted Palo Alto dentists, we understand that procedures like root canals can seem intimidating. That’s why we take the time to explain every step of your treatment and ensure your comfort throughout the process. Whether you need root canal therapy, internal bleaching, or a post and core restoration, we’re here to provide the expert care you deserve.
What Are Endodontic Treatments?
Endodontic treatments focus on the interior of the tooth, specifically the pulp and root canal system. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue that help the tooth develop. When this tissue becomes infected due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma, it can cause severe pain and lead to abscesses or tooth loss if left untreated.
Endodontic treatments are designed to remove the infected tissue, clean and disinfect the tooth’s interior, and seal it to prevent further infection. These procedures allow you to keep your natural tooth rather than having it extracted.
Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is the most common type of endodontic treatment. Despite its reputation, modern root canal procedures are no more uncomfortable than getting a standard filling. In fact, root canals are pain-relieving treatments that eliminate the source of your toothache.
During root canal therapy, one of our skilled Palo Alto dentists will:
- Numb the affected area to ensure your comfort
- Remove the infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth
- Clean and shape the root canals
- Fill the canals with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha
- Seal the tooth with a temporary or permanent filling
After the tooth has healed, a dental crown is typically placed over it to restore its strength and appearance. With proper care, a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy can last a lifetime.
Internal Bleaching
Sometimes a tooth that has had root canal therapy or experienced trauma can become discolored from the inside. While external teeth whitening treatments can brighten surface stains, they won’t address discoloration that originates within the tooth structure.
Internal bleaching is a specialized endodontic treatment that lightens a tooth from the inside out. During this procedure, a whitening agent is placed inside the tooth and sealed temporarily. Over the course of a few days or weeks, the agent works to restore the tooth’s natural color. This treatment is an excellent option for patients who want to improve the appearance of a darkened tooth without resorting to veneers or crowns.
Post & Core
When a tooth has been severely damaged by decay or fracture, or after extensive root canal therapy, there may not be enough natural tooth structure left to support a crown on its own. In these cases, a post and core restoration may be necessary.
A post is a small metal or fiber structure that is placed into the root canal to provide additional support. The core is the buildup material that is placed on top of the post to create a stable foundation for the dental crown. Together, the post and core help preserve the tooth and restore its function.
This procedure is an important step in saving teeth that might otherwise need to be extracted. Our Palo Alto dentists use precise techniques to ensure that your post and core restoration is secure, comfortable, and built to last.
Why Choose Beckstead Dental Group for Endodontic Treatments?
At Beckstead Dental Group, we combine clinical expertise with a patient-first approach. We know that endodontic treatments can feel overwhelming, so we prioritize clear communication, gentle care, and advanced technology to make your experience as comfortable as possible.
Our team uses modern equipment and techniques to improve accuracy and reduce treatment time. We also offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your busy life and work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that fits your needs and budget.
FAQ: Endodontic Treatments
Is a root canal painful?
No. Root canals are performed under local anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure. Most patients report that the treatment is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Afterward, you may experience mild soreness, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long does a root canal take?
Most root canal procedures take between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case. Some teeth may require a second visit to complete the treatment.
Can all teeth be saved with endodontic treatment?
While endodontic treatments are highly successful, not every tooth can be saved. Factors like the extent of damage, the location of the fracture, or the health of the surrounding bone may affect the outcome. Your dentist will evaluate your tooth and discuss all your options.
Will I need a crown after a root canal?
In most cases, yes. A crown protects the treated tooth from fracturing and restores its full function. Your dentist will let you know if a crown is necessary for your specific situation.
Preserve Your Smile with Expert Endodontic Care
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or have been told you need a root canal, don’t wait. Early treatment can save your tooth and prevent more serious complications. At Beckstead Dental Group, we provide the skilled, compassionate endodontic treatments you need to protect your smile. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation with the Palo Alto dentists who put your comfort and health first. Let us help you preserve your natural teeth and enjoy a pain-free smile.