Root Canal Therapy in Spanish Lake, MO
Root canal therapy in Spanish Lake, 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 experience this essential procedure every day to protect 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 reach out to Plaza Dental Center at 314-361-1818 or schedule an appointment online for your treatment for root canals in Spanish Lake, MO today.
Root canal therapy is a widely used dental treatment utilized 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 way, the tooth can be preserved and function normally without causing discomfort or discomfort. Root canal therapy can also prevent the infection moving to other parts of your mouth or jaw.
Root canal therapy is a great treatment option for your oral hygiene and self-esteem. It can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be pulled out, which can lead to more costly procedures such as dental implants or bridges. It can also enhance the appearance and strength of your tooth, as well as your capacity to chew and speak effectively. While many people visualize depictions of pain when root canals are mentioned, in reality they don’t hurt more than other dental treatments and any soreness only persists for a short while after the procedure.
If you are looking for a trusted provider of root canal therapy in Spanish Lake, MO, look no further than Plaza Dental Center. Our team of experienced dentists and endodontists (dentists who specialize in root canal treatment) use the latest technology and practices to ensure your ease and well-being during the treatment. We also offer convenient payment options and accept most insurance plans to make your dental care budget-friendly and convenient. Dr. Joseph Cutrona is especially interested in helping Spanish Lake, MO patients who feel nervous in the dentist’s chair.
Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?
How do you know if you need a root canal? 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 common symptoms that may indicate a dental problem. 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 Spanish Lake, MO include:
- Tooth pain that doesn’t go away
- Tooth sensitivity
- Inflamed gums
- A dark tooth
- Pain when pressure is applied
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- Loose tooth
Sometimes, these symptoms indicate something other than damaged pulp. They could be a sign of other dental issues such as periodontal disease, cavities, or an impacted tooth. That’s why it’s vital to get professional dental care in Spanish Lake, MO as promptly to avoid issues and additional 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 another type of treatment. Don’t wait until your tooth pain becomes unbearable. Contact Plaza Dental Center in Spanish Lake, MO today to schedule an appointment. We are more than happy to help you ease your pain and save your tooth.
The Root Canal Procedure and What to Expect
If you’re exploring root canal therapy in Spanish Lake, MO, you may have some concerns or concerns about what exactly takes place. It’s common to hear misconceptions about root canals, such as them being incredibly painful. However, the truth is that root canal therapy is a very routine, secure, and effective procedure that has helped thousands and thousands of patients.
So, what can you expect during a root canal in Spanish Lake, MO? Typically, a root canal takes the following stages:
- Local anesthesia — Your dentist will administer a numbing medication using a tiny needle so you don’t feel any pain. The numbing sensation will take effect quickly and provide numbing throughout the procedure.
- Dental dam — Your dentist will place a thin rubber sheet over the infected tooth to protect and isolate the area.
- Drilling — Using a precision drill, your dentist will create a small hole in the top of the infected tooth. This opening allows the dentist to reach the tooth’s inner soft tissue. This isn’t very different from getting a standard filling.
- Cleaning — After drilling, your dentist will remove the infected 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 make room for a dental filling. Your dentist will then hydrate 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 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 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 a second appointment to finish the procedure. Your dentist will remove the temporary filling and place a custom-made dental crown on top of your tooth. The crown is a custom-made 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 no one will ever be able to tell you’ve had the procedure.
The root canal procedure in Spanish Lake, MO typically lasts about 30 to 90 minutes to complete. However, some factors may affect the duration of the procedure, including:
- 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 some painkillers 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, crunchy, sticky, or chewy. These foods can potentially harm the 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 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 a saltwater solution 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 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 Spanish Lake, MO root canal patients recover rapidly and resume their normal activities within a few 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 Spanish Lake, MO to check on your healing progress and place your permanent crown.
Other services we offer in Spanish Lake, 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 Spanish Lake, MO Root Canal Therapy Today
At Plaza Dental Center, we have helped thousands of patients in Spanish Lake, 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 contact us today. We are here to help you get rid of 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 book an appointment 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 Spanish Lake, MO today to schedule an appointment or request a consultation. We are here to help 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 Spanish Lake, MO.