Root Canal Therapy in Overland, MO
Root canal therapy in Overland, 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 important procedure every day to safeguard their teeth from infection or damage. But what precisely is the process of a root canal and why is it required? Continue reading to learn more, or contact Plaza Dental Center at 314-361-1818 or request an appointment online for your treatment for root canals in Overland, MO today.
Root canal therapy is a widely used dental procedure employed to treat infected tooth pulp (the delicate tissue located inside the tooth). Root canal treatment involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp and closing the tooth with a filling or a crown. This method, the tooth can be saved and function normally without causing pain or discomfort. Root canal therapy can also stop the infection moving to other parts of your mouth or jaw.
Root canal therapy has many benefits for your oral health and your smile. 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 your tooth’s appearance, strength, and functionality. While many people visualize scenes of discomfort when they think of root canals, in truth they don’t hurt more than other dental procedures and any soreness only lasts a few days.
If you are looking for a trusted provider of root canal therapy in Overland, MO, your search ends at Plaza Dental Center. Our team of knowledgeable dentists and endodontists (specialists in root canal treatment) use the latest techniques and approaches 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 is particularly interested in assisting Overland, MO patients who feel anxious getting dental work done.
Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?
Is root canal therapy right for your teeth? Sometimes, you may not have any noticeable symptoms until the infection has festered for a while. That’s why you need to visit your dentist twice a year for dental examinations and cleanings and polishing. However, there are some frequent symptoms that may indicate a tooth infection. If you experience any of these, you should get in touch with 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 Overland, MO include:
- Tooth pain that stays or gets worse
- Tooth sensitivity
- Swollen gums
- Tooth discoloration
- 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 vital to get professional dental care in Overland, MO as early on 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 endodontic treatment or if you’d be better off with a different type of treatment. Don’t wait until the situation gets worse. Call Plaza Dental Center in Overland, MO today to request a consultation. We are more than happy to help you alleviate your pain and make your smile great again.
The Root Canal Procedure and What to Expect
If you’re considering root canal therapy in Overland, MO, you may have some concerns or worries about what exactly it is. It’s common to hear misconceptions about root canals, such as being painful, risky, or ineffective. However, in reality root canal therapy is a very common, secure, and effective procedure that has helped thousands and thousands of patients.
So, what can you expect during a root canal in Overland, MO? Here are the steps involved in the root canal procedure:
- Local anesthesia — Your dentist will give you a numbing medication using a tiny needle to numb the area around the affected tooth. The numbing sensation will take effect almost immediately and provide numbing throughout the procedure.
- 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 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 phase of root canal treatment is similar to the preparation stage for a filling.
- Cleaning — Next, your dentist will take out the damaged soft tissue 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 a filling is applied.
- Filling — Your dentist will fill the empty space inside the tooth and root with a a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This material is rubber-like 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 — 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 custom-made 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 your smile will look and feel completely natural.
The root canal procedure in Overland, MO generally lasts about 30 to 90 minutes to complete. However, some factors may affect the duration of the procedure, 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 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 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 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 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 Overland, MO root canal patients recover quickly 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 Overland, MO to check on your healing progress and place your permanent crown.
Other services we offer in Overland, 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 Overland, MO Root Canal Therapy Today
At Plaza Dental Center, we have helped thousands of patients in Overland, 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 get in touch with us today. We are here to assist you get rid of 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 reach out to us today.
Don’t let a tooth infection ruin your smile and your health. Contact Plaza Dental Center in Overland, 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 Overland, MO.