Root Canal Therapy in Maplewood, MO
Root canal therapy in Maplewood, 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 undergo this important procedure daily to protect their teeth from infection or damage. But what exactly is the process of a root canal and why is it required? Keep reading to learn more, or reach out to Plaza Dental Center at 314-361-1818 or schedule an appointment online for your root canal therapy in Maplewood, MO today.
Root canal therapy is a standard dental procedure employed to address infected tooth pulp (the soft tissue located inside the tooth). Root canal therapy involves extracting the infected or inflamed pulp and sealing the tooth with a restoration or a crown. This method, the tooth can be saved and function normally without causing discomfort or ache. Root canal therapy can also stop the infection moving to other parts of your mouth or jaw.
Root canal therapy can do wonders 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 such as dental implants or bridges. It can also restore the appearance and strength of your tooth, as well as your ability to chew and speak effectively. While many people imagine images of pain when they think of root canals, in reality they don’t hurt more than other dental processes 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 Maplewood, MO, trust in Plaza Dental Center. Our team of skilled dentists and endodontists (dentists who specialize in root canal treatment) use the latest techniques and approaches 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 budget-friendly and accessible. Dr. Joseph Cutrona is especially interested in working with Maplewood, MO patients who feel apprehensive 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 every six months for dental examinations and cleanings and polishing. However, there are some common symptoms that may indicate a dental problem. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should contact Plaza Dental Center at your earliest convenience to get a thorough diagnosis and treatment.
Some of the signs and symptoms that you might need root canal therapy in Maplewood, MO are:
- Tooth pain that doesn’t go away
- Tooth sensitivity
- Inflamed gums
- A black 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 problems such as periodontal disease, cavities, or tooth decay. For that reason it’s crucial to seek professional dental care in Maplewood, MO as soon as possible to avoid complications 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 understand if you need endodontic treatment or another type of treatment. Don’t wait any longer. Call Plaza Dental Center in Maplewood, MO today to schedule an appointment. We are here to help you alleviate your pain and save your tooth.
What Happens During Root Canal Therapy?
If you’re exploring root canal therapy in Maplewood, MO, you may have some concerns or concerns about the procedure. You may have heard some misconceptions about root canals, such as being painful, risky, or ineffective. However, the truth is that root canal therapy is a very common, safe, and successful procedure that has helped thousands and thousands of patients.
So, what can you expect during a root canal in Maplewood, MO? Typically, a root canal takes the following stages:
- 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 provide numbing throughout the procedure.
- 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 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 inner soft tissue. 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 dental filling. Your dentist will then wash 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 protect the tooth and keep it from getting infected again. Your dentist will also place a temporary restoration 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 a second appointment 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. A crown is a custom-made cap that covers and protects your tooth from further damage. It also renews the look and functionality of your tooth, so no one will ever be able to tell you’ve had the procedure.
The root canal procedure in Maplewood, MO typically takes about approximately 30 minutes to 1.5 hours 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 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 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 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 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 Maplewood, 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 Maplewood, MO to check on your healing progress and place your permanent crown.
Other services we offer in Maplewood, 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 Maplewood, MO Root Canal Therapy Today
At Plaza Dental Center, we have helped thousands of patients in Maplewood, 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 contact us today. We are here to assist you eliminate your pain and save your tooth. We will provide you with a thorough examination, a customized treatment plan, and a compelling invitation 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 Maplewood, MO today to arrange a consultation 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 Maplewood, MO.