Root Canal Therapy in Sunset Hills, MO
Root canal therapy in Sunset Hills, 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 daily to safeguard their teeth from infection or damage. But what precisely 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 make an appointment online for your treatment for root canals in the Sunset Hills, MO area now.
Root canal therapy is a widely used dental procedure employed to address infected tooth pulp (the delicate tissue situated inside the tooth). Root canal therapy involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp and closing the tooth with a restoration or a crown. This way, the tooth can be saved and function normally without causing pain or discomfort. Root canal therapy can also stop the spread of infection to other parts of your mouth or jaw.
Root canal therapy can do wonders for your oral hygiene and self-esteem. It can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted, which can lead to more expensive procedures such as dental implants or bridges. It can also restore your tooth’s appearance, strength, and functionality. While many people picture depictions of discomfort when they think of root canals, in reality they don’t hurt more than other dental treatments and any soreness only lasts for a short while after the procedure.
If you are looking for a trusted provider of root canal therapy in Sunset Hills, 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 techniques and practices 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 particularly enjoys helping Sunset Hills, MO patients who feel nervous in the dentist’s chair.
Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?
Is root canal therapy right for you? Sometimes, you may not have any noticeable symptoms until the infection has festered for a while. That’s why it’s important to visit your dentist regularly for dental examinations and cleanings and polishing. However, there are some frequent symptoms that may indicate a tooth infection. If you suffer from any of the symptoms listed below, you should reach out to Plaza Dental Center as soon as possible to get a accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Some of the signs and symptoms of needing root canal therapy in Sunset Hills, MO are:
- Tooth pain that doesn’t go away
- Tooth sensitivity
- Swollen gums
- A dark tooth
- Pain when pressure is applied
- A broken tooth
- Loose tooth
Sometimes, these symptoms indicate something other than damaged pulp. They could be a sign of other dental issues such as gum disease, cavities, or tooth decay. For that reason it’s essential to get professional dental care in Sunset Hills, MO as promptly to avoid complications and further 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 another type of treatment. Don’t wait until your tooth pain becomes unbearable. Call Plaza Dental Center in Sunset Hills, MO today to schedule an appointment. We are more than happy to help you ease your pain and make your smile great again.
The Root Canal Procedure and What to Expect
If you’re considering root canal therapy in Sunset Hills, MO, you may have some concerns or concerns about the procedure. You may have heard some misconceptions about root canals, such as them being incredibly painful. However, the truth is that root canal therapy is a very frequent, secure, and successful procedure that has helped thousands and thousands of patients.
So, what can you expect during a root canal in Sunset Hills, MO? Here are the steps involved in the root canal procedure:
- Local anesthesia — Your dentist will administer a numbing medication using a small 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 affected tooth to protect the area and keep it clean.
- Drilling — Using a precision drill, your dentist will create an opening in the top of the affected tooth. This opening allows the dentist to reach 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 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 hydrate 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. Gutta-percha is elastic 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 — 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. 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 your mouth will look and feel completely natural.
The root canal procedure in Sunset Hills, MO usually lasts about 30 to 90 minutes to complete. However, some factors may affect the duration of the procedure, like:
- 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 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, crunchy, sticky, or chewy. 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 a saltwater solution 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 more fragile and prone to breaking. 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 Sunset Hills, 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 follow-up appointment in Sunset Hills, MO to check on your healing progress and place your permanent crown.
Other services we offer in Sunset Hills, 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 Sunset Hills, MO Root Canal Therapy Today
At Plaza Dental Center, we have helped thousands of patients in Sunset Hills, 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 reach out to us today. We are here to assist you eliminate your pain and save your tooth. We will provide you with a comprehensive evaluation, a personalized 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 Sunset Hills, 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 Sunset Hills, MO.