Root Canal Therapy in Velda Village, MO
Root canal therapy in Velda Village, 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 essential treatment daily to safeguard their teeth from infection or damage. But what precisely is root canal therapy and why is it required? Continue reading to discover more, or reach out to Plaza Dental Center at 314-361-1818 or make an appointment online for your treatment for root canals in the Velda Village, MO area now.
Root canal therapy is a widely used dental procedure utilized to address infected tooth pulp (the delicate tissue located inside the tooth). Root canal treatment involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp and sealing the tooth with a restoration or a crown. This method, the tooth can be preserved and function normally without causing discomfort or ache. Root canal therapy can also impede the spread of infection to other parts of your mouth or jaw.
Root canal therapy is a great treatment option 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 depictions of discomfort when root canals are brought up, in reality they don’t hurt more than other dental treatments and any soreness only lasts a few days.
If you are looking for a trusted provider of root canal therapy in Velda Village, MO, your search ends at Plaza Dental Center. Our team of knowledgeable dentists and endodontists (specialists in root canal treatment) use the latest technology and practices 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 convenient. Dr. Joseph Cutrona is particularly interested in assisting Velda Village, MO patients who feel anxious at dental appointments.
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 is advanced. That’s why you need to visit your dentist every six months for dental examinations and cleanings and polishing. However, there are some typical symptoms that may indicate a dental problem. If you experience any of the symptoms listed below, you should get in touch with Plaza Dental Center as soon as possible to get prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Some of the signs and symptoms that you might need root canal therapy in Velda Village, MO include:
- Tooth pain that stays or gets worse
- Tooth sensitivity
- Inflamed gums
- A dark 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 seek professional dental care in Velda Village, 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 another type of treatment. Don’t wait until the situation gets worse. Contact Plaza Dental Center in Velda Village, MO today to schedule an appointment. We are more than happy to help you relieve your pain and save your tooth.
The Root Canal Procedure and What to Expect
If you’re considering root canal therapy in Velda Village, MO, you may have some questions or concerns about what exactly takes place. You may have heard some 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 effective procedure that can save your tooth and ease your pain.
So, what can you expect during a root canal in Velda Village, MO? Typically, a root canal takes the following stages:
- Local anesthesia — Your dentist will give you a local anesthetic 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 dental dam over the affected tooth to protect the area and keep it clean.
- Drilling — Using a specially designed drill, your dentist will create a small hole on the crown of the affected tooth. This opening will fully expose the top of the tooth pulp, containing the tooth’s damaged nerve and blood vessels. This phase of root canal treatment is similar to the preparation stage for a filling.
- Cleaning — Next, your dentist will take out 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 accommodate 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 biocompatible material called gutta-percha. Gutta-percha is rubber-like and flexible, and it helps close off 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 — In most cases, you will need to come back for a second appointment to finish the procedure. Your dentist will remove the temporary filling and fix a permanent 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 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 Velda Village, MO usually lasts about approximately 30 minutes to 1.5 hours 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
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 some painkillers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help you manage any discomfort or inflammation. Take them as directed, 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 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 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 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 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 Velda Village, 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 post-treatment visit in Velda Village, MO to check on your healing progress and place your permanent crown.
Other services we offer in Velda Village, 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 Velda Village, MO Root Canal Therapy Today
At Plaza Dental Center, we have helped thousands of patients in Velda Village, 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 eliminate your pain and save your tooth. We will provide you with a comprehensive evaluation, a personalized 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 Velda Village, MO today to arrange a consultation or seek 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 Velda Village, MO.