Root Canal Therapy in Black Jack, MO
Root canal therapy in Black Jack, 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 experience this essential 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 necessary? Keep reading to discover more, or reach out to Plaza Dental Center at 314-361-1818 or schedule an appointment online for your root canal therapy in the Black Jack, MO area now.
Root canal therapy is a common dental treatment employed to address infected tooth pulp (the soft tissue located inside the tooth). Root canal treatment involves extracting the infected or inflamed pulp and sealing the tooth with a restoration or a crown. This method, the tooth can be saved and operate normally without causing pain or ache. Root canal therapy can also impede the spread of infection to other parts of your mouth or jaw.
Root canal therapy can do wonders for your oral hygiene and your smile. It can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted, which can lead to more complex procedures like dental implants or bridges. It can also enhance the appearance and strength of your tooth, as well as your ability to chew and speak properly. While many people visualize depictions of pain when root canals are brought up, in reality they don’t hurt more than other dental processes and any soreness only lasts a few days.
If you are looking for a trusted provider of root canal therapy in Black Jack, MO, your search ends at Plaza Dental Center. Our team of experienced dentists and endodontists (specialists 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 convenient payment options and accept most insurance plans to make your dental care budget-friendly and convenient. Dr. Joseph Cutrona is particularly interested in working with Black Jack, MO patients who feel nervous getting dental work done.
Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?
How do you know if you need a root canal? Sometimes, you may not have any noticeable symptoms until the infection has festered for a while. That’s why it’s important to visit your dentist twice a year for dental examinations and cleanings and polishing. However, there are some typical symptoms that may indicate a tooth infection. If you experience any of these, 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 that you might need root canal therapy in Black Jack, MO include:
- Tooth pain that doesn’t go away
- Tooth sensitivity
- Swollen gums
- Tooth discoloration
- Pain when pressure is applied
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- Loose tooth
These signs and symptoms are not exclusive to root canal problems. They could be a sign of other dental issues such as gum disease, cavities, or tooth decay. For that reason it’s vital to get professional dental care in Black Jack, MO as early on to avoid complications and further 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 until your teeth get worse. Contact Plaza Dental Center in Black Jack, MO today to schedule an appointment. 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 looking into root canal therapy in Black Jack, MO, you may have some questions or concerns about the procedure. It’s common to hear myths about root canals, such as them being incredibly painful. However, in reality root canal therapy is a very frequent, secure, and effective procedure that can save your tooth and relieve your pain.
So, what can you expect during a root canal in Black Jack, MO? Typically, a root canal takes the following stages:
- Local anesthesia — Your dentist will administer a numbing medication using a tiny needle so you don’t feel any pain. The numbing sensation will take effect quickly and last for several hours.
- Dental dam — Your dentist will place a dental dam over the infected tooth to protect the area and keep it clean.
- Drilling — Using a Gates-Glidden 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 remove 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 make room for a dental filling. Your dentist will then hydrate the area with a variety of 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 the empty space inside the tooth and root with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. This material is elastic and pliable, and it helps protect the tooth and prevent reinfection. Your dentist will also place a temporary filling on top of the gutta-percha to close the opening in your tooth.
- Crown — Most of the time, you will need to come back for an additional visit to finish the procedure. Your dentist will remove the temporary filling and place a permanent dental crown on top of your tooth. The crown is a specially crafted 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 Black Jack, MO generally takes 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
After Care and Recovery Tips For Root Canal Patients
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 medication for pain relief 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 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 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 refrain from consuming alcohol and tobacco for at least one week after your root canal.
- Protect your tooth — Until you get your permanent crown, your treated tooth will be more fragile and prone to breaking. 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 Black Jack, 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 Black Jack, MO to check on your healing progress and place your permanent crown.
Other services we offer in Black Jack, 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 Black Jack, MO Root Canal Therapy Today
At Plaza Dental Center, we have helped thousands of patients in Black Jack, 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 thorough examination, a customized treatment plan, and a strong call to action to schedule a visit or contact us today.
Don’t let a tooth infection ruin your smile and your health. Get in touch with Plaza Dental Center in Black Jack, MO today to arrange a consultation or request a consultation. We are here to help 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 Black Jack, MO.