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Root Canals (Endodontics)

Dentist in Creve Coeur, MO

If you have an infected tooth or a nerve in your tooth is in pain, then you may need a root canal. Root canals are an important procedure to save badly damaged or infected teeth. Thankfully due to modern advancements, root canal treatments are relatively simple and painless procedures.  

A root canal is a procedure where the canals within the teeth are disinfected and sealed off so that bacteria cannot continue to thrive. When a tooth becomes infected the only way to get rid of the infection is to do a root canal or remove the tooth all together. If you have an infected tooth or a nerve in your tooth is in pain, then you may need a root canal.

How Root Canals Work

Each tooth has one or multiple canals that run from the tip of each root to a cave like structure (called the pulp chamber) in the center of the tooth. Because these canals are so thin a very limited amount of infection fighting blood cells can reach this area. When a tooth becomes infected, it is this limited blood supply that prevents our bodies from being able to fight off the infection completely. Even modern antibiotics will not completely remove a dental infection.

Root Canals (Endodontics)

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Once the center of the tooth and root canals are disinfected from top to bottom, these areas are then filled and sealed so that no bacteria can fester. Now that the tooth is properly sealed the body can fight off the remaining infection outside of the tooth’s root.

The only alternative to treat a dental infection is to remove the tooth altogether. While this may be necessary if the tooth is severely compromised, no restoration is as good as a natural tooth.

Symptoms of dental infections can be very similar to those of other dental problems. Luckily, our team of experts can help distinguish these symptoms and properly determine if a root canal is truly needed. Please contact us about whether or not you should get a root canal treatment.

We use very modern techniques that ensure a faster and better quality root canal treatment.  Also, just like all procedures we provide, we will make sure you have a good experience!

FAQs

1. What is a root canal?
A root canal is a procedure that removes infection from inside a tooth. We clean and seal the canals to stop bacteria from spreading. This treatment saves your natural tooth, relieves pain, and helps avoid the need for extraction.

2. Do root canals hurt?
Modern root canals are virtually painless. With today’s anesthetics and techniques, most patients feel little to no discomfort during treatment. Many even compare it to getting a filling. Our team ensures your comfort every step of the way.

3. How do I know if I need a root canal?
Signs include severe tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, or a darkened tooth. Sometimes there are no obvious symptoms. A dental exam and X-ray are the best ways to determine if a root canal is needed.

4. How long does a root canal take?
Most root canals can be completed in one visit lasting one to two hours, depending on the tooth and extent of infection. In some cases, a second appointment may be needed to complete treatment and place a crown for protection.

5. What happens after a root canal?
After treatment, your tooth may feel slightly sensitive for a few days, but this quickly improves. A crown is often recommended to restore strength and prevent further damage. With proper care, a root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime.

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