Do I need a crown after root canal?

After a root canal, it is recommended that a crown be placed on the tooth to protect and seal the tooth from bacteria that can re-infect the tooth.

How long after root canal can I eat?

After a root canal, you can eat immediately after the numbness wears off to avoid biting your cheek or tongue.

How long will the results of a root canal treatment last?

With proper oral hygiene and regular dental care, the results of a root canal procedure can last a lifetime. However, it’s essential to maintain good oral habits, including brushing, flossing, and attending routine dental check-ups, to ensure the longevity of your restored tooth.

Root Canal Treatment in Whittier

At Perfect Smile Dental Group, we understand that the thought of needing an endo root canal treatment can be a little scary. However, we’re here in Whittier, CA, to guide you through treatment with care and expertise. With us, you’ll be comfortable throughout the entire process.

Call our office today to learn more about our endodontic services and schedule an appointment.

(562) 351-1012

Curious about our Insurance Policy?

At Perfect Smile Dental Group, we accept various insurance options for the dental crowns we offer in Whittier, CA, including plans such as:

Geha
Aetna
Unum
Cigna
Metlife
Anthem
Sun Life
Humana

Principal
Ameritas
Guardian
AlwaysCare
Careington Care
United Healthcare
Blue Shield of California

Contact Perfect Smile Dental Group

We accept most PPO insurances and offer flexible payment plans and financing options to make endodontic specialty services more accessible to all Californians.

Reach out to our team today to see how affordable and straightforward better oral health can be!

We do not accept HMO plans.

The Benefits of Undergoing a Root Canal Treatment

Endo root canal treatment in Whittier, CA, has many benefits and is often necessary to help you maintain your oral health, keep your natural smile, and eliminate the discomfort or pain that you may have been experiencing.

Relief from Pain: If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain due to an infected pulp, this treatment can provide immediate relief by removing the source of the pain.
Preservation of Natural Tooth: Instead of losing your tooth through extraction, a root canal enables you to save your tooth and maintain its function.
Prevention of Infection Spread: By removing the infected pulp and cleaning the tooth’s interior, endo root canal treatment prevents the spread of infection to surrounding teeth and tissues.
Restoration of Dental Health: After the endodontic services are completed, your tooth is sealed and is structurally restored with a crown to a healthy state and has the potential to prevent you from getting further decay.
Better Oral Health: This procedure keeps your smile intact and fosters long-term oral health by removing the need for tooth extraction and the options that follow.

What is a Root Canal Treatment?

Among our endodontic specialty services is root canal therapy, designed to treat infections and damage within the tooth’s pulp and associated structures.

Here is how this procedure is performed at Perfect Smile Dental Group.

Step-by-Step Endo Root Canal Treatment in Whittier, CA

1. To begin, we conduct a detailed examination of your tooth and examine X-rays to identify the level of infection or damage.
2. To ensure your comfort throughout the procedure, the affected tooth and surrounding area will be numbed using local anesthesia.
3. Once you’re numb, a precise opening is made in the crown to gain entry to the pulp chamber.
4. The contaminated pulp and debris are carefully removed, and then the canal is cleaned and disinfected.
5. The tooth is filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha to seal the space.
6. Regardless of the extent of the damage, after root canal, the tooth requires a crown to be placed to restore the tooth’s structure & function.
7. When the endo root canal treatment is finished, your tooth will be pain-free, and you’ll be able to go on living your life.

How Do I Know if I Need Endodontic Services?

Recognizing the warning signs of dental pulp issues allows for timely treatment. Seek endodontic specialty services when you notice the following symptoms.

Persistent Tooth Pain

If you’re experiencing prolonged or severe tooth pain, it could be a sign of an infected pulp. This pain may come and go or remain constant and worsen at night.

To manage discomfort until your endo root canal treatment:

Take over-the-counter pain relievers.
Limit chewing to the opposite side of your mouth.
Use an ice pack on the affected cheek.

Sensitivity to Temperature

Your tooth may feel sensitive to hot and cold foods or beverages. This sensitivity might linger after eating or drinking. It can be a sign of nerve irritation or pulp inflammation.

To ease this sensitivity temporarily:

Use a desensitizing toothpaste.
Steer clear of extremely hot or cold foods and drinks.
Avoid whitening toothpaste.

Swollen Gums

Swelling or tenderness in the gums surrounding a specific tooth can be a sign of infection or inflammation within the tooth’s root.

The area might feel sore to the touch. Sometimes, the swelling may be accompanied by a pus pocket or a bad taste in the mouth, which will resolve with our endodontic services.

To manage this swelling until your endodontic root canal treatment appointment in Whittier, CA:

It is advised to schedule an emergency dental appointment for the dentist to evaluate prescribe medications to manage the swelling and pain.

Discoloration of the Tooth

Darkening or discoloration of a tooth may indicate internal damage or decay that has affected the pulp. This change can be gradual or sudden, making the tooth appear yellow, gray, or brown.

Until your appointment:

Maintain good oral hygiene.
Avoid whitening toothpaste and avoid biting on that tooth.

Visible Damage or Decay

Visible cracks, chips, or deep decay in a tooth may expose the pulp to bacteria, leading to infection and the need for treatment. The affected tooth might feel sharp or sensitive to pressure.

What Sets Us Apart in Endodontic Care

The expert dental team at Perfect Smile Dental Group is here to help you say goodbye to toothache. We offer top-tier endodontic services right here in Whittier to support all your dental needs. Find out why we are the preferred choice for root canal treatments in the area.

Experienced Specialist

Dr. Michael Yang, a third-generation dentist at Perfect Smile Dental Group, delivers exceptional services in Whittier.

Innovative Root Canal Treatments

Utilizing the latest advancements in endodontics, we offer precise procedures designed for efficient healing and optimal results.

Dedicated Patient Care Strategy

Each individual is provided with tailored care and comprehensive information about their treatment options to enable informed decision-making.

Comfortable, Caring Environment

The calm and welcoming environment of our office guarantees your comfort when you come to receive dental bridges in Whittier, CA.

Flexible Payment Options

We accept most insurance plans and offer financing options to make expert endodontic specialty services affordable for everyone.

Long-Term Oral Health Care

We focus on fostering long-term relationships that help preserve your oral health for years to come.

Why Should You Choose to Save a Tooth with a Root Canal Instead of Pulling It?

Choosing endo root canal treatment over tooth extraction in Whittier, CA, offers several significant advantages.

Let’s see why it might be better for your oral health and overall well-being to go for endodontic services instead of tooth extraction.

Advantages of Root Canal Treatment Over Tooth Extraction

You can retain your permanent tooth through this treatment.
It keeps the aesthetic of your smile without resorting to dental implants or bridges.
Tooth extraction can make chewing and speaking difficult. A root canal, however, allows you to chew and speak with ease by preserving the integrity of the tooth’s structure.
Removing a tooth can cause bone loss in the jaw, leading to changes in facial structure and potential oral health issues in the future. With an endo root canal treatment, you maintain the integrity of the jawbone.

While the initial cost of a root canal may seem higher than tooth extraction, factoring in the long-term costs of tooth replacement options makes this therapy a more cost-effective solution in the grand scheme of dental care.

By choosing endodontic services, you not only immediately alleviate pain and discomfort but also invest in the long-term health and stability of your smile.

How to Care for Your Tooth After a Root Canal

After an endo root canal treatment, a temporary filling will be placed to cover the access (hole) on the tooth.

The tooth is fragile and easily broken after receiving endodontic specialty services. It requires a crown to seal and protect the tooth from reinfection and from fracturing. Dr. Yang at Perfect Smile Dental Group recommends placing a crown on the endodontically treated tooth as soon as possible.

You must avoid hard and sticky foods that can cause the temporary filling to become loose and fall out.

FAQs

What is a root canal?

With endo root canal treatment, the infected tissue, nerves, and bacteria inside the tooth’s root canals are carefully cleaned out.

Is root canal treatment painful?

Advancements in dentistry and local anesthesia have made endodontic services, such as root canals, painless. Any discomfort experienced after the procedure can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.

How long does a root canal take?

A root canal procedure depends on the location and complexity of the affected tooth. A root canal can be completed between 60 minutes and 2 hours.

What happens after a root canal?

After an endo root canal treatment in Whittier, CA, you may experience mild discomfort and bruising in the gum where anesthesia was administered.

Take some over-the-counter pain medications for any discomfort. Avoid biting any sticky or hard food to prevent the temporary filling from being broken or pulled out of the treated tooth.

What are the alternatives to a root canal?

Aside from endodontic specialty services, such as root canals, the only other option is tooth extraction to eliminate the infection.

Do I need a crown after a root canal?

After endodontic services, such as root canals, it is recommended that a crown be placed on the tooth to protect and seal it from bacteria that can re-infect the tooth.

How much does an endodontic root canal treatment cost in Whittier, CA, and does insurance cover it?

Costs vary depending on factors such as

Location of the tooth

When you schedule an appointment, Perfect Smile Dental Group will review your insurance or other payment methods for the procedure.

How long after a root canal can I eat?

Once the anesthesia wears off following a root canal, you may eat normally. Waiting for the numbness to diminish helps you avoid biting your cheek or tongue.

How long will the results of an endo root canal treatment last?

Results of a root canal treatment can last a lifetime, that is, if you take good care of your restored tooth. You must practice good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing. Plus, a dentist has to examine your mouth twice a year for signs of dental issues.

Discover Expert Endodontic Specialty Services

Are you in need of endodontic services? Perfect Smile Dental Group is here for you! We provide personalized treatments to take care of all your dental needs.

Contact our office in Whittier, CA, to learn more about endo root canal treatments and schedule a consultation to achieve a healthy smile.

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      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 174 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Heang La 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Update Review 9/12/2026
I just had my implant crown placed at perfect smile dental Group in Whittier. The crown looks very natural and very comfortable when I chew. The whole dental visit experience was painless. I’m glad that I have found Dr. Michael Yang and I would recommend to my family and friends and anyone who is looking for a good dentist in Whittier.
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Update Review 2/22/2026
My severe grinding broke my dental bridge a few days ago.  I recently had dental implants at Perfect Smile Dental Group in Whittier.  My friends and family had implants done at another office and told me it was going to hurt a lot, but my dental implant placements at Perfect Smile Dental Group was painless, smooth and quick!  I did have mild discomfort as expected.  I was back to normal in 2 days.  I am so excited to get my implant crowns in 3 months and won't have to hassle with flossing under my bridge no more!  Dr. Yang is highly skill, professional and very patient.  He took time to explain to me everything about dental implants before we started my case.  I wanted to know about the process and healing time and whether it will hurt.  After talking to Dr. Yang, I felt reassured and wanted to move forward with my dental implants and I am glad I did! It did not hurt at all!
----------------------------------------------------

Due to severe grinding, many of my teeth have problems.  I hesitated going to the dentist for many years. My main reason for coming to the dentist was that my dental bridge broke.  When I came to see Dr. Yang, his office was clean, welcoming and professional.  The staff was really friendly.  Dr. Yang was very through during the exam.  He took photos of my teeth and showed me on the X-rays where I had cavities and where I needed to have dental crowns to prevent my teeth from breaking. He told me I need a night guard to protect my teeth from breaking when I grind my teeth when I am sleeping.  I was very impressed with his attention to details.  He took his time in explaining and answering all my questions.  I don’t think I have had a dentist that cared enough to take the time to explain everything so I can understand what was going on in my mouth.  I had the best cleaning.  My teeth never felt so clean before!   I have been coming here for my dental needs and have been very happy with their customer service that I decided to stay with this dentist for my dental implants.  I highly recommend this office!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   George George 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a great experience at Perfect Smile Dental Group. The staff was friendly and professional, and Dentist was skilled and attentive. They explained everything clearly and made me feel comfortable. Highly recommend!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Kayla Winn 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I went in today as a new patient for cleaning & filling and Dr Yang was so kind and very thorough. Didn’t experience any discomfort or pain at all during the service. I had mentioned some issues i have and he was very helpful! Thank you again!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Richard Godinez 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had my daughter come in for fillings. She had such a great experience. They work wonderfully with kids and care a lot about their patients.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Haydee Rico 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I got my fillings done here and plan to get the rest of my treatment plan finished. Dr. Yang is amazing, very kind and wasn’t afraid to explain things in detail as to why I needed certain treatments. He has great skills and I was even falling asleep during my fillings.

Also Sarahy at the front desk is super nice and definitely calms your dental anxiety if you have any. I would recommend this place to anyone that needs a gentle dentist and a dental office that actually cares about their patients!

I wasn’t able to get to the dentist in about 5 years and I came here originally for a second opinion after my previous dentist wanted about 7k to cap all my teeth because “fillings were just not possible.”
Dr. Yang made it possible. Now I can focus on treatment that will better my smile and oral health.
Thank you Perfect Smile Dental Group!!!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Brent Martinez 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am amazed at the time, expertise and personal care that Dr. Yang and  staff provided. I searched for many Dentist in my area and my decision to use this office for me and my family was based on what Google reviews MY COMMUNITY  has left. I trust the community's recommendations and am glad I have found such a special Dentist office for me and my family.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Brianna Jaramillo 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I haven’t been to the dentist in a few years. My last dentist would always say my teeth are fine and no further work needed even though I would complain about pain. It wasn’t a surprise when I decided to finally look for a new dentist due to the pain that I would need to get 9 fillings. Sarahy is the absolute best. She’s super friendly/professional. She explained my insurance cost and even provided payment plans. Dr Yang made the fillings as painless as can be. He thoroughly explained the process of what was going to be done before, explained the aftercare and answered any questions I had. I will definitely be recommending family and friends.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Rosa Alves 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I wanted to leave a really positive review. I was referred by my insurance, and the service was excellent. Everyone was wonderful very attentive, explained everything carefully, gave me a small gift, and I also loved the atmosphere. The music was refined, the place was super clean, organized, and it was just excellent.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Alyssa Gutierrez 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a routine cleaning + fillings done. Overall, great experience. I would recommend coming here!

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 49 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Yelp  
   
   Eddy C. 
 
 
 
 Verified I had a great experience.The staff was friendly and professional, Dentist and staff were skilled and attentive. They explained everything clearly and made me feel comfortable. Highly recommend!
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Kayla N. 
 
 
 
 Verified I went in today as a new patient for cleaning & filling and Dr Yang was so kind and very thorough. Didn't experience any discomfort or pain at all during the service. I had mentioned some issues i have and he was very helpful! Thank you again!
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Kimberly W. 
 
 
 
 Verified I can't say enough great things about this dentist! My son came in with a very painful toothache, and the doctor got us in quickly and immediately helped him get relief.

What really stood out was how thorough and caring he was. He took detailed pictures of my son's teeth, displayed them on the screen, and walked us through everything step by step. He explained what he was seeing in a way that was easy to understand and made sure we felt comfortable and informed before making any decisions.

His bedside manner was outstanding--friendly, knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely caring. You can tell he loves what he does and truly wants his patients to understand their dental health. The entire experience was professional, stress-free, and reassuring.

Front office is outstanding as well. If you're looking for a dentist who provides exceptional care and outstanding customer service, I highly recommend him. 10/10 experience. We are so grateful for the care my son received!
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Yvonne 
 
 
 
 Verified Dr. Yang has been the best dentist my family and I have experienced. He is so thorough and honest, he takes pride in his work and takes the time to complete the treatment needed, and explains it in detail for the patient to understand. The staff is friendly and so welcoming, I recommend Perfect Smile Dental Group to everyone.
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Melissa M. 
 
 
 
 Verified I found this office through Yelp, and the amazing staff reviews are what convinced me to give them a try. I'm happy to say they were absolutely right on the 1st day! 

From my first phone call, Sarah was friendly, welcoming, and helped verify my insurance. I shared that I hadn't been to the dentist in a while and have a strong gag reflex, and everyone was incredibly understanding and accommodating.

The dentist was kind, informative, and never judgmental. Sarah also took the time to explain my treatment plan, payment options, and next steps. The entire team made me feel comfortable and cared for so far.
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Melina M. 
 
 
 
 Verified I have recommended this dental office to so many people! Service is great staff is amazing and very attentive. I was very scared of going to a new dentist because of some bad experiences in the past but Perfect Smile Dental Group has changed how I feel about going into a dental office. Dr. Yang is the best by far and really takes his time with each patient. Very glad I found him in Whittier!
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Duraan O. 
 
 
 
 Verified Literally the best dentist and care staff I've ever had. Had cavities filled and a tooth removed and it was as completely painless. Highly recommend.
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Vincent B. 
 
 
 
 Verified I was in the market for a new dentist and came across Perfect Smile Dental Group here on Yelp. With all the positive reviews I decided to go in and see for myself. I had a chipped tooth and desperately needed a cleaning and X-rays as well. The staff were extremely friendly and informative and took care of all my requests during my appointment. They provided quality care and did a great job with my cleaning. They also did a great job with my filling for my chipped tooth, which looks brand new! Definitely will be looking to be a life long patient at this dental practice.
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Yvonne Z. 
 
 
 
 Verified Friendly, professional, empathetic staff. I told how scared I was and they were really considerate. This was the first time I was thoroughly explained what I needed done and explained what my insurance covered.
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Roland O. 
 
 
 
 Verified Being a new patient I was apprehensive about seeing a new dentist or even going into a new office, but I needed a cleaning fast and found Dr Yang's office, Perfect Smile Dental Group.  The entire facility was very clean, decorative, organized and friendly.  The staff made me feel welcomed, Julie the assistant was very professional and courteous.  Dr Yang was very thorough, conversant and compassionate about his work.  He gave me suggestions on how to maintain my teeth better, what my x rays consist of and what cleaning schedules would be ideal for future appointments.  Perfect Smile Dental Group is top quality that everyone should be looking for, and I'm glad I found them. Thank you guys, see you at my next appointment.