Root Canal Therapy in Central West End, MO
Root canal therapy in Central West End, MO. Did you know that more than 15 million root canals are performed each year in the United States? That means that more than 41,000 people undergo this important treatment daily to safeguard their teeth from infection or damage. But what precisely is root canal therapy and why is it necessary? Continue reading to discover more, or contact Plaza Dental Center at 314-361-1818 or schedule an appointment online for your root canal therapy in Central West End, MO now.
Root canal therapy is a common dental treatment employed to treat infected tooth pulp (the soft tissue located inside the tooth). Root canal treatment involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp and closing the tooth with a restoration or a crown. This way, the tooth can be saved and operate normally without causing pain or ache. Root canal therapy can also prevent the infection moving to other parts of your mouth or jaw.
Root canal therapy is a great treatment option for your oral health and self-confidence. It can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be pulled out, 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 picture images of pain when root canals are mentioned, in reality they aren’t more painful than other dental processes and any soreness only lasts for a short while after the procedure.
If you are looking for an experienced provider of root canal therapy in Central West End, 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 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 Central West End, 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 you need to visit your dentist every six months for dental examinations and cleanings and polishing. However, there are some typical symptoms that may indicate a tooth infection. If you suffer from any of these, you should reach out to 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 Central West End, MO include:
- Tooth pain that stays or gets worse
- Tooth sensitivity
- Swollen gums
- A black tooth
- Pain when pressure is applied
- A broken tooth
- Loose tooth
Sometimes, these symptoms indicate something other than damaged pulp. They may also indicate other dental issues such as periodontal disease, cavities, or an impacted tooth. That’s why it’s essential to seek professional dental care in Central West End, MO as early on 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 root canal therapy or if you’d be better off with a different type of treatment. Don’t wait until the situation gets worse. Contact Plaza Dental Center in Central West End, MO today to request a consultation. We are more than happy to help you relieve your pain and make your smile great again.
The Root Canal Procedure and What to Expect
If you’re considering root canal therapy in Central West End, MO, you may have some inquiries or worries about what exactly it is. It’s common to hear myths about root canals, such as being painful, risky, or ineffective. However, in reality root canal therapy is a very routine, secure, and effective procedure that can save your tooth and relieve your pain.
So, what can you expect during a root canal in Central West End, MO? Typically, a root canal takes the following stages:
- Local anesthesia — Your dentist will give you a numbing medication using a small needle so you don’t feel any pain. The numbing sensation will take effect quickly and provide numbing throughout the procedure.
- Dental dam — Your dentist will place a thin rubber sheet over the infected tooth to protect the area and keep it clean.
- Drilling — Using a precision drill, your dentist will create a small hole in the top of the affected tooth. This opening allows the dentist to reach the tooth’s inner soft tissue. This phase of root canal treatment is similar to the preparation stage for a 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 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 irrigate 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. This material is elastic and pliable, and it helps close off 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 complete the restoration of your tooth. Your dentist will remove the temporary filling and fix a custom-made dental crown on top of your tooth. The 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 mouth will look and feel completely natural.
The root canal procedure in Central West End, MO typically lasts about approximately 30 minutes to 1.5 hours to complete. However, some factors may affect the duration of the procedure, for example:
- 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 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, crunchy, sticky, or chewy. 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 soft-bristled toothbrush 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 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 Central West End, MO root canal patients recover quickly 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 follow-up appointment in Central West End, MO to check on your healing progress and place your permanent crown.
Other services we offer in Central West End, 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 Central West End, MO Root Canal Therapy Today
At Plaza Dental Center, we have helped thousands of patients in Central West End, 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 get in touch with 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 Central West End, 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. Dial Plaza today at 314-361-1818 or make an appointment online for your root canal therapy in Central West End, MO.