Root Canal Therapy in Bridgeton, MO
Root canal therapy in Bridgeton, 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 treatment every day to safeguard their teeth from infection or damage. But what exactly is the process of a root canal and why is it necessary? Continue reading to learn more, or contact Plaza Dental Center at 314-361-1818 or make an appointment online for your treatment for root canals in the Bridgeton, MO area now.
Root canal therapy is a standard dental treatment utilized to treat infected tooth pulp (the soft tissue located inside the tooth). Root canal therapy involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp and closing the tooth with a filling or a crown. This method, the tooth can be preserved and operate normally without causing discomfort or ache. Root canal therapy can also impede the spread of infection to other parts of your mouth or jaw.
Root canal therapy is a great treatment option for your oral hygiene and your smile. It can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted, which can result in needing more complex procedures such as dental implants or bridges. It can also restore your tooth’s appearance, strength, and functionality. While many people imagine images of pain when they think of root canals, in reality they aren’t more painful than other dental procedures and any discomfort only lasts for a short while after the procedure.
If you are looking for an experienced provider of root canal therapy in Bridgeton, MO, trust in Plaza Dental Center. Our team of experienced dentists and endodontists (dentists who specialize in root canal treatment) use the latest technology and methods to ensure your ease and safety during the treatment. We also offer a variety of payment options and accept most insurance plans to make your dental care affordable and accessible. Dr. Joseph Cutrona is particularly interested in helping Bridgeton, 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 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 frequent symptoms that may indicate a tooth infection. If you suffer from any of the following symptoms, you should reach out to Plaza Dental Center at your earliest convenience to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Some of the signs and symptoms of needing root canal therapy in Bridgeton, MO include:
- Tooth pain that stays or gets worse
- Tooth sensitivity
- Swollen gums
- A dark tooth
- Pain when pressure is applied
- A chipped or cracked 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 an impacted tooth. For that reason it’s vital to seek professional dental care in Bridgeton, MO as promptly to avoid issues 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 determine if you need endodontic treatment or another type of treatment. Don’t wait until your teeth get worse. Call Plaza Dental Center in Bridgeton, MO today to schedule an appointment. We are here to help you alleviate your pain and make your smile great again.
What Happens During Root Canal Therapy?
If you’re considering root canal therapy in Bridgeton, MO, you may have some concerns or worries about what exactly it is. 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 successful procedure that has helped thousands and thousands of patients.
So, what can you expect during a root canal in Bridgeton, MO? Here are the steps involved in the root canal procedure:
- Local anesthesia — Your dentist will administer a numbing medication using a small needle to numb the area around the affected tooth. The numbing sensation will take effect almost immediately and last for several hours.
- Dental dam — Your dentist will place a dental dam over the affected tooth to protect the area and keep it clean.
- Drilling — Using a precision drill, your dentist will create a small hole on the crown of the affected tooth. This opening will fully expose the top of the tooth pulp, containing the tooth’s damaged nerve and blood vessels. This isn’t very different from getting a standard filling.
- Cleaning — After drilling, your dentist will take out the damaged soft tissue 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 hydrate the area with a variety of solutions to wash away any remaining pulp and disinfect the area. 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 a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Gutta-percha is rubber-like and pliable, and it helps close off the tooth and prevent reinfection. Your dentist will also place a temporary restoration on top of the gutta-percha to close the opening in your tooth.
- Crown — In most cases, you will need to come back for a second appointment to finish the procedure. Your dentist will remove the temporary filling and fix a custom-made dental crown on top of your tooth. The crown is a custom-made cap that covers and protects your tooth from further damage. It also renews the look and functionality of your tooth, so your mouth will look and feel completely natural.
The root canal procedure in Bridgeton, MO usually takes about approximately 30 minutes to 1.5 hours to complete. However, some things may make it take longer, such as:
- 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 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 a saltwater solution 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 avoid biting or chewing with that tooth as much as possible. 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 Bridgeton, MO root canal patients recover speedily and resume their normal activities within several 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 Bridgeton, MO to check on your healing progress and place your permanent crown.
Other services we offer in Bridgeton, 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 Bridgeton, MO Root Canal Therapy Today
At Plaza Dental Center, we have helped thousands of patients in Bridgeton, 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 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 strong call to action to schedule a visit or reach out to us today.
Don’t let a tooth infection ruin your smile and your health. Contact Plaza Dental Center in Bridgeton, MO today to arrange a consultation or seek 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 Bridgeton, MO.