Root Canal Therapy in Northwoods, MO
Root canal therapy in Northwoods, 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 daily to protect their teeth from infection or damage. But what precisely is the process of a root canal and why is it necessary? Continue 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 Northwoods, MO now.
Root canal therapy is a common dental procedure utilized to address infected tooth pulp (the soft tissue situated inside the tooth). Root canal therapy involves extracting the infected or inflamed pulp and closing the tooth with a filling or a crown. This method, the tooth can be saved and operate normally without causing discomfort or discomfort. Root canal therapy can also stop the spread of infection to other parts of your mouth or jaw.
Root canal therapy has many benefits for your oral hygiene and your smile. It can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be pulled out, which can lead to more costly procedures like dental implants or bridges. It can also restore your tooth’s appearance, strength, and functionality. While many people picture scenes of pain when they think of root canals, in reality they aren’t more painful 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 Northwoods, MO, trust in Plaza Dental Center. Our team of knowledgeable dentists and endodontists (dentists who specialize in root canal treatment) use the latest technology and approaches to ensure your root canal goes as safe and smoothly as possible. We also offer convenient payment options and accept most insurance plans to make your dental care affordable and convenient. Dr. Joseph Cutrona is especially interested in working with Northwoods, MO patients who feel apprehensive in the dentist’s chair.
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 you need to visit your dentist regularly for dental examinations and cleanings and polishing. However, there are some frequent signs that may indicate a dental problem. If you suffer from any of these, you should contact Plaza Dental Center at your earliest convenience to get a accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Some of the signs and symptoms that you might need root canal therapy in Northwoods, MO include:
- Tooth pain that stays or gets worse
- Tooth sensitivity
- Swollen 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 issues such as gum disease, cavities, or tooth decay. That’s why it’s crucial to get professional dental care in Northwoods, 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 if you’d be better off with a different type of treatment. Don’t wait until your tooth pain becomes unbearable. Call Plaza Dental Center in Northwoods, 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 Northwoods, MO, you may have some questions or worries about what exactly takes place. It’s common to hear myths about root canals, such as being painful, risky, or ineffective. However, the truth is that root canal therapy is a very frequent, safe, and successful procedure that can save your tooth and ease your pain.
So, what can you expect during a root canal in Northwoods, 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 last for several hours.
- Dental dam — Your dentist will place a dental dam over the infected tooth to protect the area and keep it clean.
- Drilling — Using a specially designed drill, your dentist will create an opening on the crown of the affected tooth. This opening allows the dentist to reach the tooth’s pulp. This phase of root canal treatment is similar to the preparation stage for a 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 where the pulp used to be, shaping the inner chamber to accommodate a filling. Your dentist will then irrigate 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 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 an additional visit to finish the procedure. Your dentist will remove the temporary filling and fix a custom-made dental crown on top of your tooth. A 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 no one will ever be able to tell you’ve had the procedure.
The root canal procedure in Northwoods, 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
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 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. 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 potentially harm the 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 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 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 more fragile and prone to breaking. Therefore, you should minimize chewing or biting with that tooth. 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 Northwoods, 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 Northwoods, MO to check on your healing progress and place your permanent crown.
Other services we offer in Northwoods, 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 Northwoods, MO Root Canal Therapy Today
At Plaza Dental Center, we have helped thousands of patients in Northwoods, 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 strong call to action to schedule a visit or reach out to us today.
Don’t let a tooth infection ruin your smile and your health. Reach out to Plaza Dental Center in Northwoods, 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 Northwoods, MO.