To save a badly infected or damaged tooth it may be necessary for an endodontist to perform a root canal. A root canal in Chicago involves the removal of soft inner tissue of a tooth; this tissue is called the “pulp.”
When is it necessary to have a root canal?
The most common causes of damage to the tooth pulp are:
* An untreated tooth cavity resulting in deep decay
* A number of dental procedures on the same tooth
* A significant chip or crack in or on the tooth
* A significant impact which can result from any type of mishap
There are a number of symptoms’ which indicate that a root canal may be necessary, they include extreme pain, swelling and a feeling of heat in the affected area. Usually a general dentist will confirm the necessity of a root canal in Chicago and refer the patient to an endodontist for treatment.
What is the procedure?
Depending on the condition of the tooth, a root canal can be completed in one or two treatments, modern endodontic treatment is similar to having a filling and the patient can expect the experience to be comfortable. The procedure is quite straight forward:
* Anesthetic: The gum will be numbed in the area of the affected tooth, once the medication has taken effect; a local anesthetic will be injected. Although the patient remains awake during the treatment, he or she will feel no pain.
* Remove the pulp: The top of the tooth will be removed using a dental drill. Once the infected pulp is exposed it is carefully and completely removed using a series of tiny files.
* Antibiotics: The area will be treated with a topical antibiotic to ensure that the infection is totally eliminated.
* Filling: Once the root canal in Chicago is completed the tooth will be temporarily filled. A few days later the temporary filling will be removed and replaced with a permanent filling and a crown will be placed on the tooth.
With good oral hygiene, teeth that have had a root canal can last a lifetime. Contact Dental Specialists of South Loop & North Shore at www.endoperiosurg.com.
