Root Canal Therapy in Dellwood, MO
Root canal therapy in Dellwood, 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 procedure daily to protect 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 make an appointment online for your root canal therapy in Dellwood, MO today.
Root canal therapy is a standard dental treatment utilized to address infected tooth pulp (the delicate tissue located inside the tooth). Root canal treatment involves extracting 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 spread of infection to other teeth or the jawbone.
Root canal therapy can do wonders for your oral health and your smile. It can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted, which can result in needing more expensive procedures such as dental implants or bridges. It can also restore your tooth’s appearance, strength, and functionality. While many people picture scenes of pain when they think of root canals, in reality they aren’t more painful than other dental processes and any discomfort only persists for a short while after the procedure.
If you are looking for a trusted provider of root canal therapy in Dellwood, MO, trust in Plaza Dental Center. Our team of knowledgeable dentists and endodontists (specialists 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 a variety of payment options and accept most insurance plans to make your dental care cost-effective and accessible. Dr. Joseph Cutrona especially enjoys assisting Dellwood, MO patients who feel anxious in the dentist’s chair.
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 regularly 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 at your earliest convenience to get prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Some of the signs and symptoms of needing root canal therapy in Dellwood, MO are:
- Tooth pain that doesn’t go away
- Tooth sensitivity
- Swollen gums
- A dark tooth
- Pain when pressure is applied
- A broken tooth
- Loose tooth
Sometimes, these symptoms indicate something other than infected pulp. They may also indicate other dental issues such as periodontal disease, cavities, or tooth decay. For that reason it’s essential to get professional dental care in Dellwood, 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 understand if you need endodontic treatment or another type of treatment. Don’t wait until your tooth pain becomes unbearable. Contact Plaza Dental Center in Dellwood, MO today to book a visit. We are here to help you ease your pain and make your smile great again.
What Happens During Root Canal Therapy?
If you’re considering root canal therapy in Dellwood, MO, you may have some concerns or concerns about what exactly takes place. It’s common to hear misconceptions about root canals, such as them being incredibly painful. However, the truth is that root canal therapy is a very routine, secure, and successful procedure that can save your tooth and ease your pain.
So, what can you expect during a root canal in Dellwood, MO? Here are the steps involved in the root canal procedure:
- Local anesthesia — Your dentist will administer a local anesthetic using a small needle to numb the area around the affected tooth. 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 an opening in the top 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 — Next, your dentist will remove 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 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 a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Gutta-percha 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 until you’re ready for a permanent crown.
- 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 place a permanent 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 restores the appearance and function of your tooth, so no one will ever be able to tell you’ve had the procedure.
The root canal procedure in Dellwood, MO generally takes about approximately 30 minutes to 1.5 hours to complete. However, some things may make it take longer, 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 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 to chew, sticky, or require excessive chewing. These foods can damage your 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 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 impede 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 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 avoid biting or chewing with that tooth as much as possible. 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 Dellwood, MO root canal patients recover quickly and resume their normal activities within a short period. 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 Dellwood, MO to check on your healing progress and place your permanent crown.
Other services we offer in Dellwood, 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 Dellwood, MO Root Canal Therapy Today
At Plaza Dental Center, we have helped thousands of patients in Dellwood, 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 assist you get rid of your pain and save your tooth. We will provide you with a thorough examination, a personalized 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. Reach out to Plaza Dental Center in Dellwood, MO today to arrange a consultation or seek a consultation. We are here to help 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 Dellwood, MO.