Care focused on preserving teeth
Root Canal Therapy in Panorama City, CA
If a tooth is painful or damaged, an examination can help determine the cause and whether root canal therapy is one of the appropriate treatment options.
Call (818) 810-0050Request an AppointmentClear answers about tooth discomfort
Root canal treatment addresses the soft tissue, or pulp, inside a tooth. It may be considered when that tissue is inflamed or infected, but symptoms alone cannot confirm the diagnosis. A dental examination and appropriate diagnostic images are needed.
At Rainbow Dental Health Care, Dr. Raftacco will listen to your concerns, evaluate the tooth and explain the findings. If root canal therapy is recommended, she will discuss the treatment plan, restoration needs and follow-up care. Explanations are available in English or Spanish.
Evaluation
The visit begins with a review of symptoms and a focused examination of the tooth and surrounding area.
Treatment planning
Your dentist will explain whether root canal therapy or another treatment is appropriate for the diagnosis.
Restoration
A treated tooth may need a filling or crown afterward. The specific recommendation depends on the tooth.
What to expect, step by step
- Evaluation: an exam and X-rays to find the cause of the pain.
- Numbing: the tooth and area are fully numbed before any treatment begins.
- Cleaning the canals: the inflamed or infected pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed.
- Protecting the tooth: a filling or crown restores strength so you can chew normally again.
Cost, insurance and financing
The cost of a root canal depends on which tooth is treated and whether a crown is needed afterward. Many dental insurance plans cover part of the treatment. Call (818) 810-0050 with your plan name and member ID and the front desk will check your benefits before you commit. We accept PPO plans such as Delta Dental, Cigna, MetLife and Guardian, and offer financing through Cherry and CareCredit. See insurance and financing options.
Saving a natural tooth is often simpler than replacing it later. If a tooth cannot be saved, Dr. Raftacco will explain options such as dental implants or dentures.
When to call the dentist
Contact the office if you have persistent tooth discomfort, sensitivity, swelling, a damaged tooth or another change that concerns you. These symptoms can have several causes, so prompt professional evaluation is more useful than trying to diagnose the problem yourself.
- Describe when the discomfort began and what makes it better or worse.
- Mention recent dental work, injury or changes near the tooth.
- Share relevant health information and medications with the dental team.
- Ask what follow-up or restoration may be needed after treatment.
Office hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 9 AM–5 PM. Se habla español.
The ADA describes root canal treatment as care for the soft pulp tissue inside a tooth. Read ADA patient information about endodontics.
Root canal questions
Does tooth pain always mean I need a root canal?
No. Tooth discomfort can have different causes. An examination and X-rays are needed to diagnose the problem and recommend the right treatment.
Does a root canal hurt?
The tooth is numbed before treatment, so most patients feel pressure rather than pain during the procedure. Some tenderness for a few days afterward is common, and Dr. Raftacco will explain how to manage it.
How long does a root canal take?
Many root canals are completed in one or two visits. The time depends on the tooth and how many canals it has. You will get an estimate at your evaluation.
How much does a root canal cost, and does insurance cover it?
Cost depends on which tooth is treated and whether it needs a crown afterward. Many dental plans cover part of root canal treatment. Call (818) 810-0050 with your plan name and member ID and the front desk will check your benefits before treatment. Financing is available through Cherry and CareCredit.
Will the tooth need a crown?
Some treated teeth need a crown or another restoration, especially back teeth, but the recommendation depends on the tooth’s location and condition.
¿Puedo hacer mi cita en español?
Sí. La Dra. Raftacco habla español como lengua materna. Llame al (818) 810-0050 para su evaluación de endodoncia.