Root Canal Therapy in Clayton, MO
Root canal therapy in Clayton, 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 exactly is the process of a root canal and why is it required? 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 Clayton, MO today.
Root canal therapy is a common dental treatment utilized to treat infected tooth pulp (the soft tissue situated inside the tooth). Root canal treatment involves removing 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 impede the infection moving to other teeth or the jawbone.
Root canal therapy can do wonders 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 costly procedures like dental implants or bridges. It can also enhance the appearance and strength of your tooth, as well as your capacity to chew and speak properly. While many people imagine images of pain when root canals are brought up, in reality they don’t hurt more than other dental treatments 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 Clayton, MO, look no further than Plaza Dental Center. Our team of skilled dentists and endodontists (dentists who specialize in root canal treatment) use the latest technology 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 particularly enjoys helping Clayton, 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, it can be hard to tell 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 common symptoms that may indicate a problem with your tooth pulp. If you experience any of these, you should contact 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 Clayton, MO are:
- Tooth pain that doesn’t go away
- 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 issues such as periodontal disease, cavities, or tooth decay. For that reason it’s vital to seek professional dental care in Clayton, MO as soon as possible 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 any longer. Contact Plaza Dental Center in Clayton, MO today to book a visit. We are more than happy to help you alleviate your pain and make your smile great again.
What Happens During Root Canal Therapy?
If you’re exploring root canal therapy in Clayton, 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, the truth is that root canal therapy is a very common, safe, and successful procedure that can save your tooth and ease your pain.
So, what can you expect during a root canal in Clayton, MO? Typically, a root canal takes the following stages:
- Local anesthesia — Your dentist will give you a local anesthetic 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 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 pulp. This phase of root canal treatment is similar to the preparation stage for a filling.
- Cleaning — Next, your dentist will remove the damaged soft tissue 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 wash away any remaining pulp and disinfect the area. The tooth and surrounding area will be thoroughly dried before a filling is applied.
- Filling — Your dentist will fill where the pulp used to be with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. Gutta-percha is elastic and flexible, and it helps seal the tooth and prevent reinfection. Your dentist will also place a temporary restoration 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 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 specially crafted cap that covers and protects your tooth from further damage. 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 Clayton, MO generally lasts about 30 to 90 minutes 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
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. Take them as directed, 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 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 soft-bristled toothbrush 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 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 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 Clayton, 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 post-treatment visit in Clayton, MO to check on your healing progress and place your permanent crown.
Other services we offer in Clayton, 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 Clayton, MO Root Canal Therapy Today
At Plaza Dental Center, we have helped thousands of patients in Clayton, MO and the surrounding areas with their root canal needs. We have seen firsthand how this procedure can change 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 eliminate 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 book an appointment or reach out to us today.
Don’t let a tooth infection ruin your smile and your health. Contact Plaza Dental Center in Clayton, 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 Clayton, MO.