Why Choose Molina Endodontics for Your Root Canal
Choosing the right specialist for your root canal makes all the difference. As a dedicated endodontic practice, Molina Endodontics focuses exclusively on treating the inside of the tooth — it's all we do, and we do it exceptionally well.
20,000+ Successful Procedures
Dr. Molina earned her DMD from Harvard School of Dental Medicine and completed her endodontic residency at UCLA. With more than three decades of focused experience and over 20,000 root canals completed, she brings precision patients notice immediately. Many are surprised their procedure takes around 30 to 60 minutes.
Sedation for a Painless Experience
Dental anxiety is real, and we take it seriously. We offer a full range of sedation options — nitrous oxide, oral sedation, IV sedation, and general anesthesia administered by a board-certified dental anesthesiologist on staff. Whether you need light relaxation or prefer to be completely asleep, we have a solution for you.
What to Expect During a Root Canal Procedure
Knowing what happens before, during, and after your visit helps ease uncertainty. Here's a step-by-step look at the root canal procedure at our Downey office.
Before Your Appointment
Your visit begins with a thorough evaluation, including 3D CT imaging and digital X-rays, to give Dr. Molina a detailed view of the affected tooth. She'll explain your diagnosis, walk you through the treatment plan, and answer every question you have. If you're in severe pain, we also offer same-day emergency appointments to get you relief as quickly as possible.
During the Root Canal Treatment
Once you're comfortably numb — and sedated, if you've chosen that option — Dr. Molina carefully accesses the inside of the tooth to remove the infected or inflamed pulp tissue. She cleans and shapes the root canals using real-time radiographic monitoring to ensure precision, then fills and seals the space to prevent future infection while preserving your natural tooth structure.
Recovery and Aftercare
Most patients feel significantly better within a day or two. You may experience mild tenderness near the treated tooth, which typically responds well to over-the-counter pain relief. Dr. Molina will provide specific aftercare instructions and let you know when to return to your general dentist for a permanent crown or restoration to protect the tooth long-term.
Benefits of Saving Your Natural Tooth
Root canal therapy is designed to help you keep your natural tooth rather than lose it to extraction. When a tooth can be saved, it is often the most conservative and effective path forward.
- Maintains your natural bite and chewing ability — nothing functions quite like your own tooth.
- Protects surrounding teeth from shifting out of alignment after an extraction.
- Avoids the cost and complexity of tooth replacement options like implants or bridges.
- Preserves jawbone density that may deteriorate after a tooth is removed.
Root Canal vs. Retreatment — When Each Is Needed
A standard root canal addresses a tooth that has become infected or inflamed for the first time. In most cases, this single procedure is all you'll ever need. However, if a previously treated tooth develops new symptoms — persistent pain, swelling, or a recurring infection — endodontic retreatment may be recommended.
Retreatment involves reopening the tooth, removing the original filling material, and re-cleaning the canals to address any missed anatomy or new infection. Dr. Molina's advanced imaging technology helps identify the exact cause of the issue so she can determine whether retreatment or an alternative approach is the right solution for your situation.
What Happens If You Delay Root Canal Treatment
Putting off a recommended root canal may allow the infection inside your tooth to spread. Over time, this can lead to:
- Increased pain and swelling that may become severe.
- Abscess formation, which can affect the surrounding bone and tissue.
- Tooth loss, as the damage may progress beyond what treatment can repair.
- Spread of infection to neighboring teeth or other areas of the body.
Early treatment gives your tooth the best chance of being saved and helps you avoid more complex — and costly — procedures down the road.
Root Canal Therapy FAQ
Most patients describe their experience at Molina Endodontics as painless or no worse than getting a filling. Dr. Molina uses extra-gentle numbing techniques and offers multiple sedation options to help ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Many patients arrive anxious and leave surprised at how comfortable the entire visit was.
A typical root canal procedure at our office takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the tooth and complexity of the case. Dr. Molina's experience with over 20,000 procedures helps ensure efficient, thorough treatment. Most patients complete their visit in a single appointment.
The cost varies based on the tooth being treated and your specific insurance plan. Molina Endodontics accepts most major PPO plans, and CareCredit financing is also available. Visit our insurance and financing page or contact our office for a personalized estimate based on your coverage.
Many patients return to work or normal activities the same day, especially when only local anesthesia is used. If you choose a sedation option such as IV sedation or oral sedation, you may need the rest of the day to recover. Dr. Molina's team will provide specific guidance based on your treatment plan.
Common signs include persistent tooth pain, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, darkening of the tooth, swelling or tenderness in nearby gums, and a recurring pimple on the gums. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your dentist or an endodontist for evaluation as soon as possible.
