What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure designed to treat infection or damage within the pulp of a tooth. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels that can become infected due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma. If left untreated, the infection can spread, leading to more severe dental problems and even tooth loss. Root canal therapy aims to remove the infected pulp, clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth, and seal it to prevent future infections.
Symptoms Indicating the Need for a Root Canal
It’s important to recognize the signs that may indicate the need for a root canal. Common symptoms include:
- Severe Tooth Pain: Persistent, throbbing pain that can radiate to the jaw, face, or other teeth.
- Sensitivity: Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, even after the source is removed.
- Swelling and Tenderness: Swelling in the gums near the affected tooth, which may be accompanied by tenderness.
- Discoloration: A darkening or discoloration of the affected tooth.
- Abscess: A pimple-like bump on the gums near the affected tooth, indicating the presence of an abscess.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek prompt dental care to prevent the infection from worsening.
Our Root Canal Treatment Process
At Omnia Dental Group, we follow a comprehensive approach to ensure the success of your root canal treatment:
- Initial Consultation: During your first visit, our dental specialists will perform a thorough examination, including X-rays, to assess the condition of the affected tooth. We will discuss your symptoms and medical history to determine if a root canal is necessary.
- Anesthesia: To ensure your comfort, we will administer local anesthesia to numb the affected area. This helps to make the procedure pain-free.
- Pulp Removal: Using specialized dental instruments, we will create an opening in the crown of the tooth to access the infected pulp. The damaged pulp is carefully removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected.
- Filling and Sealing: Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, we will fill the root canals with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. The tooth is then sealed with a temporary or permanent filling to prevent reinfection.
- Restoration: In most cases, a tooth that has undergone a root canal will require a crown to restore its strength and function. During a follow-up visit, we will place a custom-made crown over the treated tooth to provide added protection and a natural appearance.
Post-Treatment Care
Proper care after a root canal is essential for healing and long-term success. Here are some tips to follow:
- Maintain Oral Hygiene: Continue brushing and flossing regularly to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods that could damage the treated tooth.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process and ensure the tooth is recovering well.
- Report Issues: Contact us immediately if you experience persistent pain, swelling, or any other unusual symptoms after the procedure.
The Cost of Root Canal Therapy
At Omnia Dental, we understand that managing dental expenses can be challenging, and therefore, we offer various financing options to help our patients afford the necessary treatment without financial strain. Our team is committed to providing detailed information about all possible expenses and assisting with the exploration of payment plans and financing solutions, ensuring that our patients can make informed decisions about their dental care.
For more details, contact us at 847-495-2292 or book a schedule online!
Frequently Asked Questions
Root canal therapy has a high success rate, often exceeding 95%, and can last a lifetime with proper care.
The procedure typically takes one to two visits, each lasting about 90 minutes.
Yes, it's a safe and effective treatment with minimal risks when performed by a qualified professional like Dr. Shtilman.
While rare, re-infection can occur, but retreatment or other procedures can effectively address this.
The tooth should be treated like any other tooth, with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
Most teeth can be treated, but in some cases, if the damage is too extensive, alternative treatments may be necessary.
Trust Omnia Dental Group in Indian Creek, IL for Expert Root Canal Care
Omnia Dental Group is dedicated to providing exceptional dental care to the Indian Creek, IL community. Our expertise in root canal therapy, combined with our patient-centered approach, ensures you receive the best possible treatment. If you’re experiencing tooth pain or suspect you may need a root canal, don’t hesitate to contact us at 847-495-2292 to schedule your consultation. Visit us online at Omnia Dental Group to learn more about our services