Root Canal Therapy in Bel-Nor, MO
Root canal therapy in Bel-Nor, MO. Did you know that more than 15 million root canals are performed each year in the United States? That means that over 41,000 people undergo this important treatment every day to protect their teeth from infection or damage. But what precisely is the process of a root canal and why is it required? Keep reading to learn more, or contact Plaza Dental Center at 314-361-1818 or schedule an appointment online for your treatment for root canals in the Bel-Nor, MO area today.
Root canal therapy is a standard dental treatment employed to address infected tooth pulp (the delicate tissue located inside the tooth). Root canal therapy involves extracting the infected or inflamed pulp and closing the tooth with a filling or a crown. This method, the tooth can be saved and function normally without causing pain or ache. Root canal therapy can also stop the infection moving to other parts of your mouth or jaw.
Root canal therapy has many benefits for your oral hygiene and self-esteem. It can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted, which can lead to more expensive procedures like dental implants or bridges. It can also restore your tooth’s appearance, strength, and functionality. While many people imagine images of discomfort when they think of root canals, in reality they aren’t more painful than other dental procedures and any discomfort only lasts a few days.
If you are looking for a trusted provider of root canal therapy in Bel-Nor, MO, look no further than Plaza Dental Center. Our team of experienced dentists and endodontists (dentists who specialize in root canal treatment) use the latest techniques and practices to ensure your root canal goes as safe and smoothly as possible. We also offer flexible payment options and accept most insurance plans to make your dental care cost-effective and convenient. Dr. Joseph Cutrona is particularly interested in helping Bel-Nor, MO patients who feel anxious getting dental work done.
Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?
How do you know if you need a root canal? Sometimes, it can be hard to tell until the infection has festered for a while. That’s why it’s important to visit your dentist regularly for dental examinations and cleanings and polishing. However, there are some common signs that may indicate a dental problem. If you suffer from any of the following symptoms, you should get in touch with Plaza Dental Center as soon as possible to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Some of the signs and symptoms of needing root canal therapy in Bel-Nor, MO are:
- Tooth pain that stays or gets worse
- Tooth sensitivity
- Inflamed gums
- Tooth discoloration
- Pain when pressure is applied
- A broken tooth
- Loose tooth
These signs and symptoms are not exclusive to root canal problems. They may also indicate other dental problems such as gum disease, cavities, or an impacted tooth. That’s why it’s vital to seek professional dental care in Bel-Nor, MO as promptly to avoid issues and additional damage. Ignoring a tooth infection can lead to serious consequences that require much more time, effort, and money to fix.
At Plaza Dental Center, we can help you determine if you need root canal therapy or another type of treatment. Don’t wait until the situation gets worse. Contact Plaza Dental Center in Bel-Nor, MO today to schedule an appointment. We are more than happy to help you ease your pain and make your smile great again.
The Root Canal Procedure and What to Expect
If you’re looking into root canal therapy in Bel-Nor, MO, you may have some inquiries or worries about what exactly it is. You may have heard some misconceptions about root canals, such as being painful, risky, or ineffective. However, the truth is that root canal therapy is a very common, safe, and effective procedure that has helped thousands and thousands of patients.
So, what can you expect during a root canal in Bel-Nor, MO? Here are the steps involved in the root canal procedure:
- Local anesthesia — Your dentist will give you a local anesthetic using a tiny needle to numb the area around the affected tooth. The numbing sensation will take effect quickly and provide numbing throughout the procedure.
- Dental dam — Your dentist will place a dental dam over the infected tooth to protect the area and keep it clean.
- Drilling — Using a specially designed drill, your dentist will create an opening on the crown of the affected tooth. This opening allows the dentist to reach the tooth’s damaged nerve and blood vessels. This isn’t very different from getting a standard filling.
- Cleaning — Next, your dentist will remove the tooth pulp from the inside of the tooth and the root using small dental files. They will also clean and widen where the pulp used to be, shaping the inner chamber to accommodate a filling. Your dentist will then wash the area with different solutions to completely clear out the inside of the tooth. The tooth and surrounding area will be thoroughly dried before moving onto the next step.
- Filling — Your dentist will fill where the pulp used to be with a a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This material is elastic and flexible, and it helps protect the tooth and keep it from getting infected again. Your dentist will also place a temporary filling on top of the gutta-percha to close the opening in your tooth.
- Crown — In most cases, you will need to come back for an additional visit to complete the restoration of your tooth. Your dentist will remove the temporary filling and fix a permanent dental crown on top of your tooth. The crown is a custom-made cap that closes the tooth and allows it to function as a natural tooth. It also renews the look and functionality of your tooth, so others will ever be able to tell you’ve had the procedure.
The root canal procedure in Bel-Nor, MO generally takes about approximately 30 minutes to 1.5 hours to complete. However, some things may make it take longer, including:
- The number and shape of your tooth’s roots
- The presence and severity of infection
- The type and location of your tooth
What to Do After Your Root Canal Therapy
Most of the time, people who have had root canal therapy can go back to work or school the next day. However, if you’ve had sedation during your dental procedure, you may need additional time to fully recover. Here are some practical tips on how to care for your treated tooth and the surrounding gums after the procedure:
- Take painkillers as prescribed — Your dentist or endodontist will likely prescribe you some painkillers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help you manage any discomfort or inflammation. Follow the prescribed dosage, even if you don’t feel much pain. The procedure will cause some swelling, so it’s not just about relieving the pain, but also reducing the inflammation.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods — For the first few days after your root canal, you should avoid eating foods that are hard to chew, sticky, or require excessive chewing. These foods can potentially harm the temporary filling or crown, or cause more pain and sensitivity. Stick to gentler food options such as soups, yogurt, eggs, mashed potatoes, etc.
- Brush and floss gently — You should continue to brush and floss your teeth as usual, but be gentle around the treated tooth. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and avoid applying too much pressure. You can also rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help keep the area clean and soothe any irritation.
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco — Alcohol and tobacco can impede the healing process and increase the risk of infection. Alcohol can also interact with some painkillers and cause adverse effects. Therefore, you should avoid drinking alcohol and smoking for at least one week after your root canal.
- Protect your tooth — Until you get your permanent crown, your treated tooth will be somewhat delicate and susceptible to fractures. Therefore, you should minimize chewing or biting with that tooth. You should also consider using a mouthguard if you engage in sports or experience teeth grinding during sleep.
What to Expect in Terms of Healing Time and Possible Side Effects
Most Bel-Nor, MO root canal patients recover rapidly and resume their normal activities within a short period. However, some factors may affect your healing time and recovery, such as:
- The severity of the infection
- The number of roots treated
- The type of anesthesia used
- Your overall health and immune system
- Your oral hygiene habits
Root Canal Side Effects
Some possible side effects that you may experience after a root canal are:
- Soreness
- Sensitivity
- Gum Inflammation
- Infection (in rare cases)
At Plaza Dental Center, we care about your oral health and your comfort. We will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your tooth after a root canal and answer any questions you may have. We will also schedule a post-treatment visit in Bel-Nor, MO to check on your healing progress and place your permanent crown.
Other services we offer in Bel-Nor, MO include:
- Dental Emergency
- Gum Contouring
- Broken Tooth Repair
- Invisalign®
- Tooth Pain Relief
- Periodontal Treatment
- Composite Fillings
- Tooth Pain
- Gingivitis Treatment
- Dentist Near Me
Call Plaza For Your Bel-Nor, MO Root Canal Therapy Today
At Plaza Dental Center, we have helped thousands of patients in Bel-Nor, MO and the surrounding areas with their root canal needs. We have seen firsthand how this procedure can improve their lives and their smiles. If you are experiencing any signs or symptoms of needing a root canal, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We are here to assist you eliminate your pain and save your tooth. We will provide you with a thorough examination, a customized treatment plan, and a compelling invitation to schedule a visit or contact us today.
Don’t let a tooth infection ruin your smile and your health. Reach out to Plaza Dental Center in Bel-Nor, MO today to arrange a consultation or request a consultation. We are here to assist you achieve the best possible outcome for your root canal therapy. Dial Plaza today at 314-361-1818 or make an appointment online for your root canal therapy in Bel-Nor, MO.