By the team at Marina Dentistry, Marina del Rey, CA
Few dental treatments have a reputation as intimidating as the root canal.
Yet for thousands of patients across Westside Los Angeles, this procedure has been the key to saving their natural teeth and eliminating pain.
At Marina Dentistry, Dr. Sameer Aljanedi—our founder and lead restorative dentist—has successfully performed thousands of root canal surgeries over the years.
His gentle approach and advanced technology help ensure your experience is comfortable, efficient, and far less stressful than the myths suggest.
Here’s everything you need to know before your appointment.
Why a Root Canal May Be Needed
A root canal (also called endodontic therapy) is recommended when the soft tissue inside a tooth—the pulp—becomes inflamed or infected due to:
- Deep decay or a large cavity
- Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
- A crack, chip, or trauma that exposes the pulp
Without treatment, this infection can cause severe pain, lead to abscesses, and even risk the loss of the tooth.
Debunking Common Myths
Myth 1: Root Canals Are Painful
Thanks to modern local anesthetics and gentle techniques, most patients experience little to no discomfort—often less than a routine filling.
Any tenderness afterward is typically mild and temporary.
Myth 2: It Takes Multiple Appointments
In most cases, Dr. Aljanedi completes the procedure in a single visit. Complex cases may require a brief follow-up, but multi-visit treatments are now the exception.
Myth 3: It’s Better to Pull the Tooth
Keeping your natural tooth maintains jawbone integrity and proper bite alignment. An extraction often leads to more complex and expensive treatments such as implants or bridges.
Step-by-Step: Your Root Canal Experience
1. Comprehensive Examination
Your visit begins with a digital x-ray and a careful evaluation to confirm the infection and plan treatment.
2. Comfortable Anesthesia
Dr. Aljanedi uses modern local anesthetics for complete numbness. Many patients say they feel only gentle pressure—not pain.
3. Cleaning the Infected Pulp
A small opening is made in the tooth’s crown. Dr. Aljanedi carefully removes the diseased pulp and cleans and disinfects the root canals using advanced rotary instruments and irrigation.
4. Sealing the Tooth
Once the canals are thoroughly cleaned, they’re filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha and sealed to prevent future infection.
5. Final Restoration
Depending on the tooth’s location and strength, a custom dental crown is usually placed to restore full function and protect the tooth from fracture.
After Your Root Canal: What to Expect
- Mild soreness or sensitivity for a few days—manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Normal eating once the numbness wears off; avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it is fully restored with a crown.
- Long-lasting results—with good oral hygiene and regular checkups, a root canal can last a lifetime.
Dr. Sameer Aljanedi’s Expertise
“The goal of a root canal is to save your natural tooth and relieve pain—not to cause it,” explains Dr. Aljanedi.
- Advanced technology: Digital imaging and modern rotary instruments for precision and efficiency.
- Patient-focused care: Clear communication and a calming environment to reduce anxiety.
- Comprehensive dentistry: From diagnosis to final crown placement, everything is done in-house at Marina Dentistry.
With thousands of successful root canal surgeries performed, Dr. Aljanedi combines clinical skill with a gentle chairside manner.
Preparing for Your Appointment
- Eat a light meal beforehand unless advised otherwise.
- Take any prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed.
- Share your full medical history and any medications with our team.
FAQs (for FAQ Schema)
Will I need a crown after a root canal?
Most back teeth do require a crown for strength. Front teeth may be restored with a filling if enough natural structure remains.
How long does the procedure take?
Most root canals at Marina Dentistry are completed in about 60–90 minutes.
Is the tooth dead afterward?
The tooth no longer has living pulp, but it remains functional and supported by healthy surrounding tissue.
Protect Your Smile Today
If you’re experiencing tooth pain, swelling, or sensitivity to hot and cold, don’t wait.
A root canal performed promptly can save your tooth and prevent more serious complications.
Call Marina Dentistry at (310) 578-5000 or request an appointment online to schedule a root canal consultation with Dr. Sameer Aljanedi in Marina del Rey.
