Root Canal Therapy in Normandy, MO
Root canal therapy in Normandy, 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 protect their teeth from infection or damage. But what exactly is root canal therapy and why is it necessary? Keep reading to discover more, or reach out to Plaza Dental Center at 314-361-1818 or request an appointment online for your treatment for root canals in Normandy, MO now.
Root canal therapy is a widely used dental treatment utilized to treat infected tooth pulp (the delicate tissue situated inside the tooth). Root canal therapy involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp and sealing the tooth with a restoration or a crown. This method, the tooth can be preserved and function normally without causing pain or ache. Root canal therapy can also hinder the spread of infection to other parts of your mouth or jaw.
Root canal therapy is a great treatment option for your oral hygiene 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 restore your tooth’s appearance, strength, and functionality. While many people visualize depictions of pain when root canals are mentioned, in reality they don’t hurt more than other dental procedures and any soreness only persists a few days.
If you are looking for an experienced provider of root canal therapy in Normandy, MO, look no further than Plaza Dental Center. Our team of knowledgeable dentists and endodontists (dentists who specialize in root canal treatment) use the latest technology and methods to ensure your comfort and safety during the procedure. We also offer a variety of payment options and accept most insurance plans to make your dental care affordable and accessible. Dr. Joseph Cutrona particularly enjoys helping Normandy, 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 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 typical signs that may indicate a tooth infection. If you suffer from any of these, you should reach out to Plaza Dental Center as soon as possible to get a thorough diagnosis and treatment.
Some of the signs and symptoms that you might need root canal therapy in Normandy, MO include:
- Tooth pain that doesn’t go away
- 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 may also indicate other dental problems such as periodontal disease, cavities, or an impacted tooth. For that reason it’s crucial to get professional dental care in Normandy, 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 determine if you need root canal therapy or another type of treatment. Don’t wait any longer. Call Plaza Dental Center in Normandy, MO today to request a consultation. We are more than happy to help you relieve your pain and make your smile great again.
The Root Canal Procedure and What to Expect
If you’re looking into root canal therapy in Normandy, MO, you may have some questions 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, secure, and effective procedure that can save your tooth and relieve your pain.
So, what can you expect during a root canal in Normandy, MO? Here are the steps involved in the root canal procedure:
- 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 almost immediately and last for several hours.
- Dental dam — Your dentist will place a dental dam over the affected tooth to protect and isolate the area.
- Drilling — Using a Gates-Glidden drill, your dentist will create an opening in the top of the affected tooth. This opening allows the dentist to reach the tooth’s pulp. This isn’t very different from getting a standard filling.
- Cleaning — Next, your dentist will remove 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 irrigate the area with different 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 a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This material is rubber-like and pliable, and it helps seal the tooth and keep it from getting infected again. Your dentist will also place a temporary filling 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 finish the procedure. 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 closes the tooth and allows it to function as a natural tooth. It also renews the look and functionality of your tooth, so your mouth will look and feel completely natural.
The root canal procedure in Normandy, MO usually takes about 30 to 90 minutes to complete. However, some things may make it take longer, like:
- 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 brush and floss 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 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 minimize chewing or biting with that tooth. 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 Normandy, 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 post-treatment visit in Normandy, MO to check on your healing progress and place your permanent crown.
Other services we offer in Normandy, 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 Normandy, MO Root Canal Therapy Today
At Plaza Dental Center, we have helped thousands of patients in Normandy, 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 help you eliminate your pain and save your tooth. We will provide you with a comprehensive evaluation, 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. Reach out to Plaza Dental Center in Normandy, MO today to arrange a consultation or request 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 Normandy, MO.