Root Canal Therapy in Crestwood, MO
Root canal therapy in Crestwood, 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 important procedure every day to safeguard their teeth from infection or damage. But what precisely is root canal therapy and why is it required? Keep reading to learn more, or reach out to Plaza Dental Center at 314-361-1818 or request an appointment online for your root canal therapy in the Crestwood, MO area today.
Root canal therapy is a standard 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 restoration or a crown. This way, the tooth can be preserved and function normally without causing pain or discomfort. Root canal therapy can also impede the infection moving 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 such as dental implants or bridges. It can also restore your tooth’s appearance, strength, and functionality. While many people visualize depictions of discomfort when root canals are mentioned, in reality they don’t hurt more than other dental treatments and any soreness only persists a few days.
If you are looking for a trusted provider of root canal therapy in Crestwood, MO, your search ends at Plaza Dental Center. Our team of experienced dentists and endodontists (dentists who specialize in root canal treatment) use the latest techniques and practices to ensure your comfort and safety during the treatment. We also offer flexible payment options and accept most insurance plans to make your dental care affordable and convenient. Dr. Joseph Cutrona is especially interested in helping Crestwood, MO patients who feel anxious at dental appointments.
Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?
Is root canal therapy right for you? Sometimes, it can be hard to tell until the infection has festered for a while. That’s why you need to visit your dentist regularly for dental examinations and cleanings and polishing. However, there are some typical 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 accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Some of the signs and symptoms that you might need root canal therapy in Crestwood, MO are:
- Tooth pain that stays or gets worse
- Tooth sensitivity
- Inflamed gums
- Tooth discoloration
- 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 problems such as periodontal disease, cavities, or tooth decay. That’s why it’s vital to get professional dental care in Crestwood, MO as early on to avoid issues and additional damage. Ignoring a tooth infection can lead to serious consequences that require much more time, effort, and money to fix.
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 Crestwood, MO today to schedule an appointment. We are here to help you ease your pain and make your smile great again.
The Root Canal Procedure and What to Expect
If you’re exploring root canal therapy in Crestwood, MO, you may have some questions or concerns about the procedure. You may have heard some myths about root canals, such as them being incredibly painful. However, the truth is that root canal therapy is a very frequent, safe, and effective procedure that can save your tooth and ease your pain.
So, what can you expect during a root canal in Crestwood, MO? Here are the steps involved in the root canal procedure:
- Local anesthesia — Your dentist will administer a local anesthetic 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 thin rubber sheet over the infected tooth to protect and isolate the area.
- Drilling — Using a precision drill, your dentist will create a small hole in the top of the infected 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 — Next, your dentist will take out the infected 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 make room for 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 the empty space inside the tooth and root with a a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Gutta-percha is rubber-like and flexible, and it helps close off the tooth and prevent reinfection. 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 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 restores the appearance and function of your tooth, so your mouth will look and feel completely natural.
The root canal procedure in Crestwood, MO usually takes about 30 to 90 minutes 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
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 medication for pain relief 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, crunchy, sticky, or chewy. 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 maintain your regular oral hygiene routine 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 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 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 Crestwood, MO root canal patients recover rapidly 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 Crestwood, MO to check on your healing progress and place your permanent crown.
Other services we offer in Crestwood, 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 Crestwood, MO Root Canal Therapy Today
At Plaza Dental Center, we have helped thousands of patients in Crestwood, 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 assist 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 schedule a visit or reach out to us today.
Don’t let a tooth infection ruin your smile and your health. Reach out to Plaza Dental Center in Crestwood, 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 Crestwood, MO.