expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Bradley G. Seto, D.D.S.

Endodontist

Dr. Bradley G Seto D.D.S. is a top Endodontist in Santa Monica, . With a passion for the field and an unwavering commitment to their specialty, Dr. Bradley G Seto D.D.S. is an expert in changing the lives of their patients for the better. Through their designated cause and expertise in the field, Dr. Bradley G Seto D.D.S. is a prime example of a true leader in healthcare. As a leader and expert in their field, Dr. Bradley G Seto D.D.S. is passionate about enhancing patient quality of life. They embody the values of communication, safety, and trust when dealing directly with patients. In Santa Monica, CA, Dr. Bradley G Seto D.D.S. is a true asset to their field and dedicated to the profession of medicine.
Dr. Bradley G. Seto, D.D.S.
  • Santa Monica, CA
  • Accepting new patients

Can two root canals on the same tooth be a problem?

Not necessarily. If a tooth needs a second RCT (root canal treatment), it can still be successful when properly restored. Generally, the second RCT can further weaken the tooth READ MORE
Not necessarily. If a tooth needs a second RCT (root canal treatment), it can still be successful when properly restored. Generally, the second RCT can further weaken the tooth and the overall success would be lower than ideal first RCT. The primary future risk is reinfection and loss of the tooth.

How to fix cracks in the teeth?

Craze lines on teeth are shallow, common and not significant. Cracks are deeper and can progress like a crack on a windshield. You have to rely on your dentist to guide you when READ MORE
Craze lines on teeth are shallow, common and not significant. Cracks are deeper and can progress like a crack on a windshield. You have to rely on your dentist to guide you when it might be more serious. It can be very difficult to distinguish which will worsen (like the windshield crack).

I let a cavity go way too far, and it's causing a lot of pain. What should I do?

See your dentist ASAP. The need for extraction vs. root canal treatment can be determined then.

I think I have infected soft pulp tissue in my back tooth. What's the treatment for this?

Pulp tissue is inside the tooth and not visible. You probably have an infection of the gum tissue. This can arise from the pulp or gum tissue. Your dentist should be the first READ MORE
Pulp tissue is inside the tooth and not visible. You probably have an infection of the gum tissue. This can arise from the pulp or gum tissue. Your dentist should be the first evaluation to screen the problem. The treatment will depend on what is found.

What does endodontic retreatment involve?

Essentially the same as initial nonsurgical root canal treatment from the patient perspective. Technically, it is more difficult for the endodontist because the prior treatment READ MORE
Essentially the same as initial nonsurgical root canal treatment from the patient perspective. Technically, it is more difficult for the endodontist because the prior treatment materials have to be removed and any procedural problems must be corrected/repaired. To reflect this additional challenge, the duration of time for retreatment is frequently longer than initial root canal treatment.

What are the signs of a failed root canal?

Pain to bite/touch and swelling are the typical symptoms of infection arising from a failing root canal treatment (RCT). An conventional X-ray or 3D X-ray could show a "hole" READ MORE
Pain to bite/touch and swelling are the typical symptoms of infection arising from a failing root canal treatment (RCT). An conventional X-ray or 3D X-ray could show a "hole" in the bone at the tip of the root also. For chronic infections, there can be a "bubble" on the gum.

How successful is an apicoectomy?

Apicoectomy is a highly successful procedure if the tooth has sufficient length and sufficient room to place a good retrofilling. The prognosis is best if there is a definitive READ MORE
Apicoectomy is a highly successful procedure if the tooth has sufficient length and sufficient room to place a good retrofilling. The prognosis is best if there is a definitive deficiency that can be corrected and the tooth is not fractured.

Endodontists and root canals?

Endodontists treat all levels of root canal treatment difficulty. The reason your dentist refers you to the specialist can be complex-time availability, difficulty of treatment, READ MORE
Endodontists treat all levels of root canal treatment difficulty. The reason your dentist refers you to the specialist can be complex-time availability, difficulty of treatment, condition of the tooth, etc. The endodontist has more training and experience in doing all root canal treatments. Therefore, the specialist can be more efficient, more capable of managing more difficult and varied situations. I would have higher expectations for the final result by the endodontist.

Is my tooth infection spreading?

Yes. Please treat the infection.

I have a cracked tooth. Does this expose me to an infection?

Yes. And potential loss of the tooth.

Is a root canal treatment permanent?

Root canal treatment is permanent in removing the cause of pain and infection. The longevity of the tooth is more dependent on the proper restoration and maintenance of the tooth READ MORE
Root canal treatment is permanent in removing the cause of pain and infection. The longevity of the tooth is more dependent on the proper restoration and maintenance of the tooth and supporting structures (periodontium or gums). Recurrence of infection is relatively uncommon when root canal treatment is done by an endodontist but it can happen.

Can a root canal have prolonged recovery?

Recovery from root canal treatment is typically back to normal within two weeks. It depends on your symptoms of "not completely recovered." It is also important to know your READ MORE
Recovery from root canal treatment is typically back to normal within two weeks. It depends on your symptoms of "not completely recovered." It is also important to know your prior symptoms and how they relate to now.

What can be the risks involved in an endodontic surgery?

The common effects of surgery are bleeding, pain, and swelling. There are other risks that are more site specific, i.e., if the infection is close to a nerve or blood vessels or READ MORE
The common effects of surgery are bleeding, pain, and swelling. There are other risks that are more site specific, i.e., if the infection is close to a nerve or blood vessels or maxillary sinus. There should not be much greater risk of surgery if the diabetes is well-controlled (assuming no other health issues).