Root Canal Therapy in Maryland Heights, MO
Root canal therapy in Maryland Heights, 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 necessary? Keep reading to discover more, or contact Plaza Dental Center at 314-361-1818 or schedule an appointment online for your root canal therapy in the Maryland Heights, 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 closing the tooth with a restoration or a crown. This way, the tooth can be saved and operate normally without causing discomfort or discomfort. 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 health and self-confidence. It can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted, which can lead to more costly procedures such as dental implants or bridges. It can also restore your tooth’s appearance, strength, and functionality. While many people visualize depictions of pain when they think of root canals, in reality they don’t hurt more than other dental procedures and any soreness only lasts a few days.
If you are looking for an experienced provider of root canal therapy in Maryland Heights, 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 ease and safety 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 especially enjoys working with Maryland Heights, MO patients who feel nervous getting dental work done.
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 frequent signs that may indicate a problem with your tooth pulp. If you suffer from any of the symptoms listed below, you should contact Plaza Dental Center at your earliest convenience to get timely diagnosis and treatment.
Some of the signs and symptoms of needing root canal therapy in Maryland Heights, MO are:
- Tooth pain that stays or gets worse
- Tooth sensitivity
- Swollen gums
- Tooth discoloration
- Pain when pressure is applied
- A chipped or cracked 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 an impacted tooth. For that reason it’s vital to seek professional dental care in Maryland Heights, 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 determine if you need root canal therapy or if you’d be better off with a different type of treatment. Don’t wait until your tooth pain becomes unbearable. Contact Plaza Dental Center in Maryland Heights, MO today to book a visit. We are here to help you ease your pain and save your tooth.
The Root Canal Procedure and What to Expect
If you’re considering root canal therapy in Maryland Heights, 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 routine, safe, and effective procedure that can save your tooth and ease your pain.
So, what can you expect during a root canal in Maryland Heights, MO? Typically, a root canal takes the following stages:
- Local anesthesia — Your dentist will give you a numbing medication using a small needle so you don’t feel any pain. The numbing sensation will take effect quickly and provide long-lasting relief.
- Dental dam — Your dentist will place a thin rubber sheet over the infected tooth to protect the area and keep it clean.
- Drilling — Using a Gates-Glidden drill, your dentist will create an opening on the crown of the infected tooth. This opening will fully expose the top of the tooth pulp, containing the tooth’s pulp. This phase of root canal treatment is similar to the preparation stage for a 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 make room for a 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 a filling is applied.
- Filling — Your dentist will fill the empty space inside the tooth and root with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. Gutta-percha is elastic and flexible, and it helps protect 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 — 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 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 Maryland Heights, MO typically lasts about 30 to 90 minutes to complete. However, some factors may affect the duration of the procedure, 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 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. Follow the prescribed dosage, 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 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 more fragile and prone to breaking. 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 Maryland Heights, 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 post-treatment visit in Maryland Heights, MO to check on your healing progress and place your permanent crown.
Other services we offer in Maryland Heights, 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 Maryland Heights, MO Root Canal Therapy Today
At Plaza Dental Center, we have helped thousands of patients in Maryland Heights, 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 eliminate your pain and save your tooth. We will provide you with a comprehensive evaluation, a customized treatment plan, and a compelling invitation to book an appointment or contact us today.
Don’t let a tooth infection ruin your smile and your health. Get in touch with Plaza Dental Center in Maryland Heights, 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 Maryland Heights, MO.