When most people hear the saying ‘root canals’, they quickly shutter with fear or the idea of supposed pain. However, root canal treatments do just the opposite. Our team at Dental Design in Buffalo Grove provide safe and pain-free treatments to help restore smiles in the nearby area. Innovations in the dental field have allowed for more comfortable procedures, including root canal treatments. What is a root canal and how can our family-friendly staff help to keep your smile healthy through restorative treatments? Learn more from the information below!
What are Root Canals?
A root canal is actually a chamber located inside an individual tooth. Inside each tooth is a protected area which contains blood vessels, nerves, and the pulp. It is essentially what allows your tooth to feel. However, when bacteria enters this area, it can quickly lead to an infection. A root canal infection often leaves an individual in pain, as it attacks the nerves of a tooth. Support from your Buffalo Grove family dentist is needed to eliminate both the pain and spread of infection. The following are symptoms of an infected root canal:
- Severe tooth pain
- Sensitivity to hot or cold food and drink
- Discolored enamel
- Tender or swollen gums
If you are experiencing any of the above issues, we encourage you to contact our Dental Design team today to schedule a consultation with a member of our team.
What is Involved in a Root Canal Treatment?
Your dentist will diagnose your infected root canal with the help of x-rays and a visual examination. Several visits to our Buffalo Grove dental office are needed before successfully treating your root canal. A local anesthetic is used to numb the area to avoid pain or discomfort. After numbing the affected area, your dentist will use a dental drill to create a small hole in the tooth. This allows for an opening to remove the pulp along with any signs of infection or decay; root canal files help to accomplish this part of the treatment. Your dentist will disinfect and clean out the inside of the tooth with the help of a safe solution. Medications can also be prescribed prior to sealing up the tooth.
If your dentist chooses to wait a week before sealing up the tooth, they will provide you with a temporary filling to protect the opening. A follow-up appointment will seal the opening that was left in the tooth. Your Dental Design team may also discuss a further restoration, such as a crown, that may help to strengthen your smile.
Why Root Canal Treatments are Essential
If an infected root canal goes ignored, it can lead to the spread of infection. This can ultimately travel to other teeth and into your bloodstream. In order to prevent the potential pain and headache, an easy and pain-free treatment is essential to restore your smile. In addition, regular dental exams help to promote good oral health by diagnosing issues early on. Contact Dental Design in Buffalo Groves to book your next appointment with us today!
