Root Canal Therapy in Burr Ridge, IL
If you have an infected or damaged tooth, you may find yourself in need of a root canal procedure, commonly referred to as root canal therapy or endodontic treatment. The goal of this treatment is to save the tooth and avoid a dental extraction, which will then require an implant or other tooth replacement option. Thanks to advances in dental techniques, the equipment that is now used for root canals makes the entire process easier, faster, and virtually pain-free.
The Root Canal Explained
A root canal is a treatment option designed to save a tooth that is infected, inflamed, or damaged. The process involves your dentist removing all the damaged or infected internal parts (the “pulp”) of the tooth and then fill it with the proper type of material to avoid any future issues. Usually, once the infected tissue and pulp are removed, a crown is placed on the surface of the tooth to protect it from any additional damage or decay.
Steps of a Root Canal
When the dentist starts the root canal, most patients do not experience much, if any, pain or discomfort.
The dentist will first use a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and area directly around the tooth being treated. Once it is numb, the dentist will then drill into the tooth in order to remove all the infected or inflamed pulp inside. The interior of the tooth is then cleaned and shaped. The interior of the tooth is filled with a special gel and the top is sealed.
Once the infection is completely gone, and the tooth and gums have begun to heal, your dentist is going to clean and then seal your tooth again. At this point, they will also place a permanent crown on top of the tooth to help prevent any additional damage or decay.
Signs You Need a Root Canal
Anyone that’s ever experienced a true tooth ache or other dental pain knows that it can be excruciating. Dental pain is often the first sign that a root canal may be needed. In some situations, an infection in your tooth is not going to be painful right away. However, other symptoms may arise and the sooner you seek treatment, the better the outcome is may be. If you experience any of the following issues, it is best to contact your dentist right away:
- Irritation or swelling around a certain tooth
- Discoloration of the tooth
- Localized pain
Only a dentist can determine if root canal therapy would eliminate the pain you are experiencing.
If you are in pain or believe that you may be in need of a root canal, then all you have to do is contact us at 1st Family Dental of Burr Ridge to schedule an appointment. Our team of talented staff can help evaluate the issue and create a treatment plan that meets your needs, which may include endodontic treatment.
Previous: Full Mouth Reconstruction | Next: Cosmetic Dentistry
