Root Canal Therapy Overview
Endodontic therapy is necessary when the soft tissue inside the root canal, known as the pulp, becomes infected or irritated due to deep decay, large cavities, repeated dental treatment, fractures, or trauma. If not treated, the infection can cause an abscess, which in turn can lead to complications, including swelling of the face and neck, bone loss around the tooth roots, and potentially bone loss. The infection in the tooth can also spread to other parts of the body, causing serious health problems.
Root canal therapy restores the health and integrity of the treated tooth and prevents the need for extraction. Even though there are many tooth replacement options, including dental implants and bridges, nothing compares to maintaining your natural teeth!
Do You Need Root Canal Therapy?
Symptoms indicating you may need a root canal treatment include the following:
- Severe pain when you bite or chew
- Lingering sensitivity to temperature extremes
- Tender or swollen gums
- A chipped, cracked, or discolored tooth
- A recurring pimple-like bump on your gums
If you have one or more of these symptoms, you may require a root canal treatment. Keep in mind, though, that tooth pulp damage can happen at times and not produce any symptoms. That's why we emphasize the importance of scheduling your routine dental exams. We will evaluate every aspect of your oral health and determine whether you require any treatment to maintain your healthy smile.
What Is the Root Canal Therapy Procedure?
In the past, root canals required multiple lengthy visits. Thanks to today's advances in technology and root canal techniques, most treatments are completed in a single visit.
We will start by numbing the area using a local anesthetic and administering dental sedation, if required, to ensure you are comfortable during the procedure. We make a small opening in the tooth's crown to access and remove the soft pulp tissue and clean and sterilize the pulp chamber and root canals. We will shape the space and fill the root canals with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. The last step is sealing the area to prevent the risk of further infection.
After root canal therapy, the tooth is prone to fracture and will require a dental crown to protect it and restore its full function and appearance. With proper oral hygiene practices and keeping up with your dental exams and cleanings every six months, your treated tooth can last a lifetime!
Infected Tooth Symptoms
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Pain with biting
- Swelling
- Throbbing or severe pain
- No symptoms
Benefits of Saving Your Tooth
- Efficient chewing
- Normal biting force and sensations
- Natural appearance
- Protects other teeth from excessive wear or stain
Stages of Root Canal Therapy
- The tooth is numbed for your comfort. An opening is made through the crown and the nerve is removed.
- Each canal is then cleaned and shaped, so it can be filled. Medicine may be placed in the tooth.
- The canals are filled with a rubber-like material to seal them.
- The tooth is restored with a dental restoration (usually a dental crown in Western Springs, IL) to strengthen it.