Root Canal Therapy in Warson Woods, MO
Root canal therapy in Warson Woods, 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 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? Keep reading to discover more, or reach out to Plaza Dental Center at 314-361-1818 or schedule an appointment online for your root canal therapy in the Warson Woods, MO area now.
Root canal therapy is a widely used dental procedure utilized to treat infected tooth pulp (the delicate tissue situated inside the tooth). Root canal treatment involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp and sealing the tooth with a filling or a crown. This way, the tooth can be saved and function normally without causing pain or ache. Root canal therapy can also impede the infection moving to other teeth or the jawbone.
Root canal therapy is a great treatment option for your oral health and your smile. It can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted, which can lead to more expensive procedures like dental implants or bridges. It can also restore the appearance and stability of your tooth, as well as your capacity to chew and speak effectively. While many people picture scenes of discomfort when they think of root canals, in reality they don’t hurt more than other dental processes and any soreness only persists a few days.
If you are looking for an experienced provider of root canal therapy in Warson Woods, 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 approaches to ensure your root canal goes as safe and smoothly as possible. We also offer a variety of payment options and accept most insurance plans to make your dental care budget-friendly and convenient. Dr. Joseph Cutrona especially enjoys working with Warson Woods, 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 every six months for dental examinations and cleanings and polishing. However, there are some frequent signs that may indicate a dental problem. If you suffer from any of these, 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 of needing root canal therapy in Warson Woods, MO are:
- Tooth pain that stays or gets worse
- Tooth sensitivity
- Inflamed gums
- Tooth discoloration
- 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 problems such as periodontal disease, cavities, or tooth decay. That’s why it’s crucial to seek professional dental care in Warson Woods, MO as soon as possible 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 determine if you need root canal therapy or if you’d be better off with a different type of treatment. Don’t wait until your tooth pain becomes unbearable. Contact Plaza Dental Center in Warson Woods, MO today to request a consultation. We are more than happy to help you alleviate your pain and make your smile great again.
What Happens During Root Canal Therapy?
If you’re looking into root canal therapy in Warson Woods, MO, you may have some questions or concerns about what exactly it is. You may have heard some misconceptions about root canals, such as them being incredibly painful. However, in reality root canal therapy is a very routine, secure, and successful procedure that has helped thousands and thousands of patients.
So, what can you expect during a root canal in Warson Woods, 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 provide numbing throughout the procedure.
- Dental dam — Your dentist will place a dental dam over the infected 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 infected tooth. This opening will fully expose the top of the tooth pulp, containing the tooth’s damaged nerve and blood vessels. 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 where the pulp used to be, shaping the inner chamber to accommodate a dental filling. Your dentist will then wash the area with a variety of 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 where the pulp used to be with a a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This material is elastic and flexible, and it helps protect 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 — Most of the time, you will need to come back for a second appointment to complete the restoration of your tooth. Your dentist will remove the temporary filling and place a permanent 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 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 Warson Woods, MO usually takes about 30 to 90 minutes to complete. However, some factors may affect the duration of the procedure, for example:
- 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 acetaminophen 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 soft foods 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 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 more fragile and prone to breaking. Therefore, you should minimize chewing or biting with that tooth. 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 Warson Woods, MO root canal patients recover quickly 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 Warson Woods, MO to check on your healing progress and place your permanent crown.
Other services we offer in Warson Woods, 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 Warson Woods, MO Root Canal Therapy Today
At Plaza Dental Center, we have helped thousands of patients in Warson Woods, 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 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 schedule a visit or contact us today.
Don’t let a tooth infection ruin your smile and your health. Reach out to Plaza Dental Center in Warson Woods, 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 Warson Woods, MO.