In most cases, when dental care is needed, it’s the protective outer layer of enamel that’s being treated. In some cases, though, the inner pulp, commonly referred to as the “nerve,” needs special attention. This is typically the case after an injury or tooth fracture, or because of a deep cavity. In any of these cases, the tooth could develop an infection. If left untreated, the infection will kill the pulp, putting the tooth in danger of being lost.
To prevent this, it’s important to see your local dentist early. That’s because a tooth in danger of getting infected can be saved with a service known as a root canal.
For many, the words root canal may inspire anxiety, but today’s advances in technology and technique have made the process more comfortable, especially when paired with oral conscious sedation. With oral conscious sedation, patients of different ages and backgrounds can experience a soothing level of relaxation. What’s more, a root canal procedure can be completed in just one appointment.
Here’s what you can expect.
Once you’re comfortable and your sedation has taken effect, your doctor will clean out the canal in question and fill it with a biologically-inert substance. Then, the tooth will be sealed with a crown to prevent another infection in the future.
For patients who feel sore following their root canal, over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol or Advil can help. It’s also important, following a root canal, to make regular checkups, plus daily brushing and flossing, a routine part of your life.
Do you need to schedule a root canal procedure? Call us today to reserve a consultation appointment.
Next to local anesthetic, the drill is one of the most dreaded tools of dentistry. Today, though, dentists like 
Our 
So far this month we’ve been talking about gum disease and how our Los Angeles team treats it. All of this can be thought of as fitting under the category of preventive dentistry. Through regular visits, we can monitor your smile for signs of gum disease and provide treatment early if we find anything. With more developed cases, Arestin can help you prevent gum disease from affecting your overall health.
In 
Valentine’s Day is almost here. That means people everywhere will soon have hearts on their minds. But Valentine’s Day isn’t the only heart-related thing about February. It’s also Heart Health Month.
Even though you use one everyday—or at least you should—you may not have ever thought about how long the toothbrush has been around. It’s hard not to see them as a modern invention. And they are, in a way. The modern toothbrush didn’t come into being 
The holiday season is upon us, and will continue all the way until January. If you’ve been neglecting your teeth, this is the perfect time to make a change. Come visit us soon! You’ll leave with a beautiful, healthy smile and all the confidence you need to make a good impression at all your holiday events.
Is a severe toothache making it difficult for you to eat? Does drinking hot or cold drinks make you flinch? Have you noticed any swelling in your gums?
We’re well into fall by now, which means the holiday season is closer than ever before. Halloween is approaching, and Thanksgiving, Chanukah, and Christmas aren’t far behind. With all of these holidays come special parties and delicious foods. Wouldn’t you like to feel better about enjoying all the season has to offer? With a fall visit at Westside Dental Associates, you can!