Root Canal Therapy in University City, MO
Root canal therapy in University City, 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 exactly is root canal therapy and why is it necessary? Continue reading to learn more, or contact Plaza Dental Center at 314-361-1818 or make an appointment online for your root canal therapy in the University City, MO area today.
Root canal therapy is a standard dental treatment employed to treat infected tooth pulp (the delicate tissue located inside the tooth). Root canal therapy involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp and closing the tooth with a restoration or a crown. This method, the tooth can be saved and function normally without causing discomfort or ache. Root canal therapy can also prevent 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 extracted, which can result in needing more costly procedures like dental implants or bridges. It can also enhance the appearance and strength of your tooth, as well as your ability to chew and speak properly. While many people imagine scenes of discomfort when they think of root canals, in truth they aren’t more painful than other dental procedures 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 University City, MO, your search ends at Plaza Dental Center. Our team of skilled dentists and endodontists (specialists in root canal treatment) use the latest techniques and methods to ensure your comfort and well-being during the procedure. We also offer convenient payment options and accept most insurance plans to make your dental care cost-effective and convenient. Dr. Joseph Cutrona particularly enjoys helping University City, MO patients who feel anxious getting dental work done.
Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?
How do you know if you need a root canal? Sometimes, it can be hard to tell until the infection is advanced. That’s why you need to visit your dentist twice a year for dental examinations and cleanings and polishing. However, there are some common signs 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 proper diagnosis and treatment.
Some of the signs and symptoms that you might need root canal therapy in University City, MO include:
- Tooth pain that stays or gets worse
- Tooth sensitivity
- Swollen gums
- A dark tooth
- Pain when pressure is applied
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- Loose tooth
Sometimes, these symptoms indicate something other than infected pulp. They could be a sign of other dental issues such as gum disease, cavities, or an impacted tooth. That’s why it’s vital to get professional dental care in University City, MO as promptly to avoid issues 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 root canal therapy or another type of treatment. Don’t wait until your tooth pain becomes unbearable. Contact Plaza Dental Center in University City, MO today to request a consultation. We are here to help you alleviate your pain and save your tooth.
What Happens During Root Canal Therapy?
If you’re looking into root canal therapy in University City, MO, you may have some inquiries or worries about what exactly it is. You may have heard some myths about root canals, such as them being incredibly painful. However, in reality root canal therapy is a very common, safe, and effective procedure that can save your tooth and ease your pain.
So, what can you expect during a root canal in University City, MO? Here are the steps involved in the root canal procedure:
- Local anesthesia — Your dentist will administer a local anesthetic using a small needle to numb the area around the affected tooth. The numbing sensation will take effect almost immediately and last for several hours.
- 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 a small hole in the top of the infected 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 damaged soft tissue 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 make room for a filling. Your dentist will then hydrate the area with different solutions to completely clear out the inside of the tooth. 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 biocompatible material called gutta-percha. This material is rubber-like and flexible, 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 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 specially crafted cap that closes the tooth and allows it to function as a natural tooth. It also restores the appearance and function of your tooth, so others will ever be able to tell you’ve had the procedure.
The root canal procedure in University City, MO generally takes about 30 to 90 minutes 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
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 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 damage your 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 maintain your regular oral hygiene routine 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 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 avoid drinking alcohol and smoking 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 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 University City, 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 University City, MO to check on your healing progress and place your permanent crown.
Other services we offer in University City, 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 University City, MO Root Canal Therapy Today
At Plaza Dental Center, we have helped thousands of patients in University City, 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 reach out to 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 compelling invitation to book an appointment or contact us today.
Don’t let a tooth infection ruin your smile and your health. Get in touch with Plaza Dental Center in University City, MO today to schedule an appointment or seek a consultation. We are here to assist 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 University City, MO.