A root canal is a common dental procedure that removes infected or inflamed tissue from inside a tooth, relieving pain and helping you keep your natural tooth instead of having it extracted. At Primera Dental in Lynwood, our team provides gentle, thorough root canal treatment for patients throughout the area.
You may need a root canal if you have severe tooth pain when chewing or applying pressure, lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling or tenderness in the nearby gums, a small bump on the gum near the tooth, or a tooth that has darkened. Deep decay, a cracked tooth, or an old filling that has failed can also lead to infection of the tooth's inner pulp. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's best to schedule an exam promptly, as early treatment can help save the natural tooth.
Our dentist begins with an examination and X-ray to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of infection. The area is then numbed with local anesthesia so you stay comfortable throughout the procedure. A small opening is made in the top of the tooth to access the infected pulp, which is carefully removed. The inside of the tooth is cleaned, disinfected, and shaped, then filled and sealed with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. In most cases, a crown is later placed over the tooth to restore its strength and protect it from future damage.
Most root canals are completed in one to two visits, with each appointment typically lasting 60 to 90 minutes. Front teeth, which have a single canal, are often quicker to treat, while molars with multiple canals may require a longer appointment or a follow-up visit. Your dentist will let you know what to expect based on the location and condition of your tooth.
Mild soreness or sensitivity for a few days after treatment is normal and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it has been fully restored with a permanent filling or crown, and continue brushing and flossing normally. Most patients return to their regular activities the same day. Contact our office if you experience severe pain, swelling, or pressure that does not improve, as this may need further attention.
Primera Dental accepts Medi-Cal for eligible patients, and we also offer Cherry payment plans so you can get treated now and pay over time. Our team is happy to help you understand your coverage and financing options before treatment begins.
Primera Dental proudly provides root canal treatment to patients from Lynwood, South Gate, Compton, Paramount, Downey, Bell, Bell Gardens, Huntington Park, and Cudahy. Our office is conveniently located inside Plaza Mexico.
Is a root canal painful?
No. Local anesthesia keeps you comfortable during the procedure, and most patients report feeling no more discomfort than getting a filling. Any soreness afterward is typically mild and short-lived.
How do I know if I need a root canal or a simple filling?
Our dentist will examine your tooth and take an X-ray to see how deep the decay or damage goes. If the infection has reached the inner pulp and nerve of the tooth, a root canal is needed rather than a filling.
Will I need a crown after my root canal?
In most cases, yes. Back teeth especially benefit from a crown after a root canal, since it restores the tooth's strength and protects it from cracking during everyday chewing.
Can I walk in for an emergency root canal?
If you're experiencing severe tooth pain, please call our Lynwood office as soon as possible. We do our best to accommodate urgent cases quickly so you can get relief.
Does Primera Dental accept Medi-Cal for root canal treatment?
Yes, we accept Medi-Cal for eligible patients, and we also offer Cherry payment plans if you'd like to spread out the cost of treatment.
Dental Office Location
3150 E Imperial Hwy, B8-207, Lynwood, California, 90262Phone
(323) 296-9098Do you have any questions or concerns about our dental services? Fill out the form below, and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.