Root Canal Therapy in Jennings, MO
Root canal therapy in Jennings, 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 essential procedure daily 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 make an appointment online for your root canal therapy in the Jennings, MO area now.
Root canal therapy is a standard dental procedure employed to address infected tooth pulp (the soft tissue situated inside the tooth). Root canal therapy involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp and closing the tooth with a filling or a crown. This way, the tooth can be saved and operate normally without causing pain or ache. Root canal therapy can also stop the spread of infection 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 lead to more complex procedures like dental implants or bridges. It can also enhance the appearance and strength of your tooth, as well as your ability to chew and speak properly. While many people picture images of discomfort when they think of root canals, in reality they don’t hurt more than other dental processes and any soreness only lasts a few days.
If you are looking for an experienced provider of root canal therapy in Jennings, MO, your search ends at Plaza Dental Center. Our team of skilled 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 accessible. Dr. Joseph Cutrona especially enjoys assisting Jennings, 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 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 common signs 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 prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Some of the signs and symptoms that you might need root canal therapy in Jennings, MO include:
- Tooth pain that doesn’t go away
- Tooth sensitivity
- Inflamed gums
- A dark tooth
- Pain when pressure is applied
- A broken tooth
- Loose tooth
Sometimes, these symptoms indicate something other than infected pulp. They could be a sign of other dental issues such as periodontal disease, cavities, or tooth decay. That’s why it’s vital to get professional dental care in Jennings, MO as promptly 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 root canal therapy or if you’d be better off with a different type of treatment. Don’t wait until your teeth get worse. Contact Plaza Dental Center in Jennings, MO today to request a consultation. We are here to help you relieve your pain and save your tooth.
What Happens During Root Canal Therapy?
If you’re exploring root canal therapy in Jennings, MO, you may have some inquiries or concerns about what exactly it is. You may have heard some myths about root canals, such as being painful, risky, or ineffective. However, the truth is that root canal therapy is a very frequent, secure, and successful procedure that has helped thousands and thousands of patients.
So, what can you expect during a root canal in Jennings, MO? Typically, a root canal takes the following stages:
- Local anesthesia — Your dentist will administer a local anesthetic 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 affected 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 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 — Next, 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 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 a filling is applied.
- Filling — Your dentist will fill where the pulp used to be with a a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This material is rubber-like and pliable, and it helps close off the tooth and prevent reinfection. Your dentist will also place a temporary restoration on top of the gutta-percha to close the opening in your tooth.
- 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 place a permanent dental crown on top of your tooth. A crown is a specially crafted cap that closes the tooth and allows it to function as a natural tooth. 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 Jennings, 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
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 acetaminophen 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 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 a 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 avoid biting or chewing with that tooth as much as possible. 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 Jennings, MO root canal patients recover speedily 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 follow-up appointment in Jennings, MO to check on your healing progress and place your permanent crown.
Other services we offer in Jennings, 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 Jennings, MO Root Canal Therapy Today
At Plaza Dental Center, we have helped thousands of patients in Jennings, MO and the surrounding areas with their root canal needs. We have seen firsthand how this procedure can transform 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 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 schedule a visit or contact us today.
Don’t let a tooth infection ruin your smile and your health. Get in touch with Plaza Dental Center in Jennings, MO today to schedule an appointment or seek 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 Jennings, MO.