ROOT CANALS

Our Chicago dental experts can restore decayed and damaged teeth

Root canals

ABOUT ROOT CANALS

Most people aren’t happy to hear they need a root canal, but this procedure is not as scary as the myths make it appear. Getting a root canal done helps to maintain the health and structures of your teeth as well as alleviate pain and infection within your teeth.

WHAT IS A ROOT CANAL?

In each of your teeth, you have a soft inner portion that houses a collection of nerves and pulp. When this area inside your tooth becomes damaged or diseased, a root canal may be necessary to remove the infection and preserve your tooth.

In a root canal procedure, your provider will remove the nerve and pulp of the affected tooth, cleaning out the interior and sealing the tooth to preserve it and avoid further infection. This alleviates tooth pain and helps you save your teeth from further damage or disease.

If an infection within this soft part of the tooth is left untreated, the decayed part of your tooth can spread and affect your gums and surrounding teeth, not to mention causing you a great deal of tooth pain. A root canal cleans out the diseased areas entirely to preserve your teeth and keep the rest of your mouth healthy.

DO I NEED A ROOT CANAL?

Root canals may be required for a variety of conditions, diseases, or injuries in the tooth. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may need a root canal procedure:

  • Sensitivity in the teeth, particularly to heat or cold

  • Pain while chewing

  • Cracking in the tooth

  • Pimples on the gums

  • Tenderness or swelling of the gums

  • Decay or darkening of the gums

If any of these symptoms describe you, contact our team at Modern Smiles at (312) 500-7080 so we can discuss your case and provide any necessary treatment.

WHAT TO EXPECT

ROOT CANAL TREATMENT

Root canals don’t have to be cause for stress. Like any other procedure, root canals improve your health and save your teeth from further pain and decay. If you think you may need a root canal, our team at Modern Smiles can provide you with expert, compassionate care throughout the process.

At your visit, we will discuss your case and determine if a root canal is right for you. An X-ray may be taken to get a clearer picture of your tooth and any potential infection. If your treatment involves a root canal, a local anesthetic will be used to ensure your comfort during the procedure. A small hole is then drilled into the tooth to access the diseased pulp and nerve. The inside of the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, removing the infected areas. Finally, the tooth is sealed to protect it and prevent further infection. In some cases, the tooth may require sealing at a later appointment, usually within a week of the initial procedure.

For more information about root canals and what you can expect during your procedure, contact the Modern Smiles offices at (312) 500-7080 or use our easy online form to request your appointment today.

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