Root Canal Therapy in Bel-Ridge, MO
Root canal therapy in Bel-Ridge, 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 essential procedure daily to safeguard their teeth from infection or damage. But what precisely is the process of a root canal and why is it necessary? Keep reading to discover more, or reach out to Plaza Dental Center at 314-361-1818 or schedule an appointment online for your treatment for root canals in the Bel-Ridge, MO area now.
Root canal therapy is a common dental procedure employed to treat infected tooth pulp (the delicate tissue situated inside the tooth). Root canal therapy involves extracting the infected or inflamed pulp and sealing the tooth with a filling or a crown. This way, the tooth can be preserved and operate normally without causing pain or ache. Root canal therapy can also impede the spread of infection to other teeth or the jawbone.
Root canal therapy has many benefits for your oral health and your smile. It can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted, which can result in needing more complex procedures like dental implants or bridges. It can also restore the appearance and stability of your tooth, as well as your capacity to chew and speak properly. While many people picture images of discomfort when root canals are brought up, in truth they don’t hurt more than other dental procedures and any discomfort only persists a few days.
If you are looking for a trusted provider of root canal therapy in Bel-Ridge, MO, trust in Plaza Dental Center. Our team of skilled dentists and endodontists (dentists who specialize in root canal treatment) use the latest techniques and methods to ensure your root canal goes as safe and smoothly as possible. We also offer a variety of payment options and accept most insurance plans to make your dental care cost-effective and convenient. Dr. Joseph Cutrona particularly enjoys helping Bel-Ridge, MO patients who feel anxious in the dentist’s chair.
Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?
Is root canal therapy right for your teeth? Sometimes, you may not have any noticeable symptoms until the infection is advanced. That’s why it’s important to visit your dentist twice a year for dental examinations and cleanings and polishing. However, there are some common signs that may indicate a problem with your tooth pulp. If you experience any of the symptoms listed below, you should reach out to Plaza Dental Center as soon as possible to get timely diagnosis and treatment.
Some of the signs and symptoms that you might need root canal therapy in Bel-Ridge, MO are:
- Tooth pain that stays or gets worse
- Tooth sensitivity
- Inflamed gums
- A dark tooth
- Pain when pressure is applied
- A broken tooth
- Loose tooth
Sometimes, these symptoms indicate something other than infected pulp. They could be a sign of other dental issues such as gum disease, cavities, or tooth decay. For that reason it’s crucial to seek professional dental care in Bel-Ridge, MO as early on to avoid complications and additional damage. Ignoring a tooth infection can lead to serious consequences such as abscesses, bone loss, or systemic infections that can affect your overall health.
At Plaza Dental Center, we can help you understand if you need endodontic treatment or another type of treatment. Don’t wait any longer. Call Plaza Dental Center in Bel-Ridge, MO today to book a visit. We are more than happy to help you ease your pain and make your smile great again.
What Happens During Root Canal Therapy?
If you’re considering root canal therapy in Bel-Ridge, MO, you may have some concerns or worries about the procedure. 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 frequent, safe, and successful procedure that can save your tooth and relieve your pain.
So, what can you expect during a root canal in Bel-Ridge, MO? Typically, a root canal takes the following stages:
- Local anesthesia — Your dentist will give you a local anesthetic using a small needle so you don’t feel any pain. The numbing sensation will take effect almost immediately and provide long-lasting relief.
- Dental dam — Your dentist will place a thin rubber sheet over the infected tooth to protect and isolate the area.
- Drilling — Using a specially designed drill, your dentist will create a small hole on the crown of the infected tooth. This opening will fully expose the top of the tooth pulp, containing the tooth’s inner soft tissue. This isn’t very different from getting a standard filling.
- Cleaning — After drilling, your dentist will take out the tooth pulp from the inside of the tooth and the root using small dental files. They will also clean and widen the space that the pulp occupied in the center of the tooth, shaping the inner chamber to accommodate a dental filling. Your dentist will then hydrate 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 close off the tooth and keep it from getting infected again. Your dentist will also place a temporary filling on top of the gutta-percha until you’re ready for a permanent crown.
- Crown — In most cases, you will need to come back for an additional visit to finish the procedure. Your dentist will remove the temporary filling and place a custom-made dental crown on top of your tooth. A crown is a specially crafted cap that covers and protects your tooth from further damage. It also restores the appearance and function of your tooth, so your smile will look and feel completely natural.
The root canal procedure in Bel-Ridge, MO usually lasts about approximately 30 minutes to 1.5 hours to complete. However, some factors may affect the duration of the procedure, like:
- 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 an extra day or two 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 paracetamol 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 damage your temporary filling or crown, or cause more pain and sensitivity. Stick to soft foods 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 interfere with 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 a 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 wear a mouthguard if you play sports or grind your teeth at night.
What to Expect in Terms of Healing Time and Possible Side Effects
Most Bel-Ridge, MO root canal patients recover rapidly and resume their normal activities within a few days. 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-Ridge, MO to check on your healing progress and place your permanent crown.
Other services we offer in Bel-Ridge, 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-Ridge, MO Root Canal Therapy Today
At Plaza Dental Center, we have helped thousands of patients in Bel-Ridge, 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 reach out to us today. We are here to help you get rid of your pain and save your tooth. We will provide you with a comprehensive evaluation, a customized treatment plan, and a compelling invitation to book an appointment or contact us today.
Don’t let a tooth infection ruin your smile and your health. Get in touch with Plaza Dental Center in Bel-Ridge, MO today to schedule an appointment or request a consultation. We are here to assist you achieve the best possible outcome for your root canal therapy. Call Plaza today at 314-361-1818 or make an appointment online for your root canal therapy in Bel-Ridge, MO.