Root Canal Therapy in Hanley Hills, MO
Root canal therapy in Hanley Hills, 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 experience this important procedure every day 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 learn more, or reach out to Plaza Dental Center at 314-361-1818 or request an appointment online for your treatment for root canals in Hanley Hills, MO today.
Root canal therapy is a widely used dental treatment employed to address infected tooth pulp (the delicate tissue located inside the tooth). Root canal therapy involves extracting the infected or inflamed pulp and closing the tooth with a filling or a crown. This way, the tooth can be saved and function normally without causing discomfort or ache. Root canal therapy can also hinder the infection moving to other teeth or the jawbone.
Root canal therapy has many benefits for your oral hygiene and self-esteem. It can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be pulled out, which can result in needing more expensive procedures like dental implants or bridges. It can also restore the appearance and stability of your tooth, as well as your capacity to chew and speak effectively. While many people visualize images of discomfort when root canals are brought up, in reality they don’t hurt more than other dental treatments and any discomfort only lasts a few days.
If you are looking for a trusted provider of root canal therapy in Hanley Hills, MO, your search ends at Plaza Dental Center. Our team of skilled dentists and endodontists (specialists in root canal treatment) use the latest technology and approaches to ensure your ease and well-being 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 especially interested in working with Hanley Hills, MO patients who feel anxious at dental appointments.
Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?
Is root canal therapy right for you? Sometimes, you may not have any noticeable symptoms 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 common signs that may indicate a dental problem. If you suffer from any of these, you should contact Plaza Dental Center as soon as possible to get timely diagnosis and treatment.
Some of the signs and symptoms that you might need root canal therapy in Hanley Hills, MO are:
- Tooth pain that stays or gets worse
- Tooth sensitivity
- Inflamed gums
- A dark tooth
- Pain when pressure is applied
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- Loose tooth
These signs and symptoms are not exclusive to root canal problems. They could be a sign of other dental issues such as gum disease, cavities, or an impacted tooth. For that reason it’s essential to seek professional dental care in Hanley Hills, MO as soon as possible to avoid complications 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 root canal therapy or another type of treatment. Don’t wait until your tooth pain becomes unbearable. Call Plaza Dental Center in Hanley Hills, MO today to schedule an appointment. We are here 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 Hanley Hills, MO, you may have some concerns or worries about the procedure. You may have heard some myths about root canals, such as being painful, risky, or ineffective. However, in reality root canal therapy is a very frequent, safe, and effective procedure that has helped thousands and thousands of patients.
So, what can you expect during a root canal in Hanley Hills, MO? Here are the steps involved in the root canal procedure:
- Local anesthesia — Your dentist will give you a local anesthetic using a tiny needle so you don’t feel any pain. The numbing sensation will take effect almost immediately and provide numbing throughout the procedure.
- Dental dam — Your dentist will place a thin rubber sheet over the affected tooth to protect and isolate the area.
- Drilling — Using a precision drill, your dentist will create a small hole on the crown of the infected tooth. This opening will fully expose the top of the tooth pulp, containing the tooth’s pulp. This isn’t very different from getting a standard filling.
- Cleaning — After drilling, your dentist will take out 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 filling. Your dentist will then wash 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 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 a second appointment to finish the procedure. Your dentist will remove the temporary filling and place 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 others will ever be able to tell you’ve had the procedure.
The root canal procedure in Hanley Hills, MO usually takes about 30 to 90 minutes to complete. However, some factors may affect the duration of the procedure, including:
- 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 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 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 toothbrush with soft bristles 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 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 Hanley Hills, MO root canal patients recover rapidly 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 Hanley Hills, MO to check on your healing progress and place your permanent crown.
Other services we offer in Hanley Hills, 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 Hanley Hills, MO Root Canal Therapy Today
At Plaza Dental Center, we have helped thousands of patients in Hanley Hills, 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 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 compelling invitation 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 Hanley Hills, MO today to schedule an appointment 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 Hanley Hills, MO.