Procedures

Root Canal Treatment

What is a Root Canal Procedure?

A root canal procedure is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. Without treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected and abscesses may form. A tooth's nerve is not vitally important to a tooth's health and function after the tooth has emerged through the gums. Its only function is sensory -- to provide the sensation of hot or cold. The presence or absence of a nerve will not affect the day-to-day functioning of the tooth.

Why Does Tooth Pulp Need to Be Removed?

When a tooth's nerve tissue or pulp is damaged, it breaks down and bacteria begin to multiply within the pulp chamber. The bacteria and other decayed debris can cause an infection or abscessed tooth. An abscess is a pus-filled pocket that forms at the end of the roots of the tooth. An abscess occurs when the infection spreads all the way past the ends of the roots of the tooth.

What Damages a Tooth's Nerve and Pulp in the First Place?

A tooth's nerve and pulp can become irritated, inflamed, and infected due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on a tooth, and/or large fillings, a crack or chip in the tooth, or trauma to the face.

What are some signs that your child may require a root canal?

  • Severe toothache pain upon chewing or application of pressure
  • Prolonged sensitivity/pain to heat or cold temperatures (after the hot or cold has been removed)
  • Discoloration (a darkening) of the tooth
  • Swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums
  • A persistent or recurring pimple on the gums
  • Keep in mind that sometimes no symptoms are present and the need for a root canal is discovered early in a routine check-up.

Pulpotomy

A tooth with large decay that extends to the nerve portion of the tooth will typically require a pulpotomy or ‘baby root canal.’ Your Child will not always complain of pain even if he or she needs a pulpotomy because once the decay has reached the nerve, the nerves dies and no longer conducts any sensation. A baby root canal is much less extensive than a traditional root canal therapy and usually requires only one appointment. All the decay in the tooth is removed and the top portion of the tooth nerve or ‘pulp’ is removed. A sedative filling material is used to fill the tooth and the tooth is prepared for a crown. A tooth that has received a pulpotomy is generally weakened so a crown will provide better coverage and protection than a filling.

About Dr. Thanos

Specialising in Pediatric Dentistry.

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Dr. Thanos was born in Athens, Greece. His first visit to the United States was in 1964 when he was invited as an American Field Service Exchange Student. He went on to attend Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania as a Fulbright Scholar, one of the highest academic honors a student can earn.

In 1971, Dr. Thanos received his dental degree from the University of Athens, Greece. For the next two years he continued advanced studies at the University of London, England where he specialized in pediatric dentistry at the Eastman Dental Hospital. In 1973, Dr. Thanos was a postdoctoral scholar at the UCLA School of Dentistry where he furthered his studies in biomaterials science and pediatric dentistry. He completed his fellowship and received certificates in both pediatric dentistry and cranio-facial genetics at UCLA Harbor Hospital.

In 1977, Dr. Thanos joined the faculty of the University of Southern California School of Dentistry. He served as a chairman of the department of Advanced Pediatric Dentistry from 1979 to 1985. During that period, he initiated the Specialized Clinic of Esthetic Dentistry where he served as director until 1992.

Dr. Thanos is not only a gifted dentist, he is also a respected scientist in his field and has published numerous research monographs. He is considered a pioneer in the field of esthetic dentistry. He has been participating in the Torrance community for over thirty years.

About Dr. Dalis

Specialising in General and Cosmetic Dentistry.

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Dr. Dalis is a lifelong South Bay resident, having grown up in Torrance, with strong ties to the community. He attended the University of Southern California where he earned his undergraduate degree in exercise physiology. Upon graduation, he attended the USC School of Dentistry where he was awarded his certificate.

Dr. Dalis is trained in all aspects of dentistry including all the latest cosmetic treatments, implants, endodontics, and the utilization of digital X Ray technology. He is an active member of the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association and the Western Los Angeles Dental Society. Dr. Dalis' frequent attendance of continuing education courses keeps him up to date on all the latest topics and procedures in the field of dentistry and oral care.

Dr. Dalis has lectured for the American Cancer Society in the areas of oral cancer and tobacco cessation. In addition, he served on the scientific health and advisory board of Redondo Union High School. In his free time, he enjoys relaxing, playing beach volleyball, hiking, and has a love for music, movies and travel.

Forms And Notices

Downloadable forms (perfect for completing before your visit to save time).

Intake Information

Patient Information and Insurance Data

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Notices

Prop 65 and other Legal Notices

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Pediatric Intake Forms

Patient Information For Children

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