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A root canal is a dental procedure that treats infection and damage of the dental pulp. The dental pulp is a soft substance inside your tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed, it can lead to pain, swelling, and other symptoms.

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed, infected, or damaged. During the procedure, the nerve and pulp of the tooth are removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected, then filled and sealed with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Without treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected and abscesses may form. Symptoms that indicate the possible need for a root canal include severe toothache, sensitivity during biting or chewing, discoloration of the tooth, tenderness to touch and/or swelling in the gum area. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact us to schedule an examination as soon as possible.

Following a root canal, the tooth will need to be restored with a crown to provide it protection from further damage. We will discuss your restoration options with you so that you know all of your treatment options and can make the best decision for your dental health.

Remember, your mouth is one of your body’s most important warning systems. Do not ignore any pain or discomfort you may be feeling in your mouth. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!

+++++Note: This post is for informational purposes only and should not be used in place of medical advice. Please consult with a medical professional for more information.+++++

When is a root canal recommended?

A root canal can relieve severe pain caused by infected pulp or nerves inside the tooth. The infection can be the result of untreated tooth decay or trauma to a tooth, such as a crack or chip. In many cases, the visible symptoms only appear after the pulp has been damaged, which is why a professional examination may reveal the need for a root canal procedure. Once the pulp is injured, bacteria enter the inside of your tooth and cause an infection. This can cause swelling and/or an abscess to form in the gum tissue surrounding the affected tooth. If left untreated, the infection could spread to other teeth or the jawbone itself. Severe cases may even result in tooth loss. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of an infected tooth, contact your dentist as soon as possible to schedule a consultation. They will examine your mouth and take x-rays to determine if you could benefit from a root canal treatment. Dr. Jil Patel is an experienced dentist who serves patients from Westmont, IL and the surrounding communities. She provides patients with gentle care and advanced treatment options to restore the health and appearance of their smiles. Call (630) 352-3111 today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Patel at the River Forest Dental Arts office! Article Source: Bio

Dr. Jil Patel graduated from Creighton University in 2013 with a B.S. in Biology and a minor in Chemistry. She received her Doctorate of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry in 2017. Dr. Patel is a member of the American Dental Association, Illinois Dental Society, and the Chicago Dental Society. She is also an associate member of the Academy of General Dentistry, a prestigious honor that recognizes dentists for their continuing education and commitment to

What are the advantages of a root canal?

While many people dread the idea of getting a root canal, the advantages far outweigh the small discomforts one might experience during the procedure. A patient’s tooth will be restored to a healthy state after the procedure is completed. You might also have an improved appearance if your damaged or discolored tooth is restored to its original color. Plus, you won’t have to worry about the tooth pain that results from an infected tooth. Your mouth will function normally once the infection is gone.

What are the disadvantages of a root canal?

While root canals have a high success rate, they are not always the best solution to every tooth-related problem. A root canal is typically recommended when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected due to decay or injury. If the infection is severe enough, it can damage the jawbone and result in an abscessed tooth. In these cases, saving the tooth with a root canal is usually the best option—otherwise, removing the tooth would be necessary. However, if the pulp isn’t inflamed or infected, it may not be necessary to undergo a root canal procedure. The dentist can usually determine if your tooth can be restored or if extraction is necessary.

If your dentist recommends extracting a tooth rather than performing a root canal, there are a few reasons why this may be a better option for you. Root canals are a longer process than tooth extraction and require multiple office visits. During each visit, the dentist must numb the affected tooth and surrounding gum tissue with anesthesia before removing any infected tissue and cleaning the root canals. An extracted tooth requires only one visit and offers a faster recovery period. Additionally, the cost of a root canal procedure is higher than that of tooth extraction. Furthermore, many people have reported experiencing pain and sensitivity following a root canal treatment. Finally, if there are multiple teeth in need of treatment, it may be necessary to extract all remaining teeth rather than performing a root canal on each one.

To avoid needing a root canal in the future, be sure to practice good dental hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time, floss at least once daily, and visit your dentist twice a year for regular cleanings and examinations. This will reduce your risk of tooth decay and keep your mouth healthy.

Patients who are interested in finding out if a root canal is right for them should speak to their dentist during their next appointment.

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