Root Canal Treatment

We know that root canals have a bad reputation for being painful. However, you may be surprised to learn root canal procedures are actually relatively painless—they are no more difficult or uncomfortable than a getting a filling! At Meadows Dental Care, our experienced dentists will be able to provide you with long-term relief from painful infection, decay, or damage using the root canal procedure.

Relieving Painful Symptoms with the Root Canal Procedure

While this treatment is used as a last resort, it can be effective in salvaging a tooth when its innermost layer has been damaged by severe infection, inflammation, or damage. There are a few telltale signs to look out for to indicate if you may be in need of the root canal procedure:

• Discolored or darkened enamel
• Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold
• Swollen or tender gums
• Extreme headaches stemming from the jaw
• Sensitivity or recurring sores on the gums
• Severe toothaches, especially when applying pressure

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, be sure to call our Palatine office straight away to schedule your appointment. That said, tooth decay can occur gradually without exhibiting symptoms, so it is important to visit the dentist twice a year to prevent severe decay before it can begin.

How We Can Help

Within your tooth’s root, there is a soft tissue called pulp, which connects the tip of the roots to the crown of your tooth. A root canal procedure will remove this infected pulp in order to salvage your natural tooth, which does not necessarily need the pulp to survive.

If you need a root canal procedure, this is what you can typically expect from the process:

1. Our first step is to use an x-ray to survey the damage within the tooth and to determine if an abscess has occurred beneath the surface.
2. Then, in order to begin the procedure, we will use a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and its surrounding tissue.
3. Next, we will protect the site of the procedure using a rubber dam, which keeps away moisture.
4. We will then make a small opening in the crown of the tooth using a drill.
5. The most important step is to remove the infected pulp, as well as bacteria and debris.
6. Once the infected pulp is removed, we will apply medication directly into the tooth to kill any infection.
7. We will place a temporary filling over the tooth, which will allow the procedure site to heal. This will later be replaced with a permanent filling.
8. When the healing process has begun, we will use a permanent, customized crown to cover the tooth and restore its structure.

With proper care, you can expect this restoration to be a permanent remedy for the decayed tooth. Luckily, many patients experience immediate pain relief after the completion of the root canal procedure. By following our step-by-step post-procedural directions, you’ll be able to heal quickly and completely.

Have you experienced any of the above symptoms for severe tooth decay? Be certain to call Meadows Dental Care right away to schedule your check-up.