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Root Canals Services in Creve Coeur, IL

When the soft tissue in your tooth (the “pulp”) is damaged as a result of inflammation or infection, you will need to have a root canal to have it removed. In the root canal process, the dentist takes out the damaged nerve tissue and pulp, disinfects the inside of the tooth, fills the empty space with replacement material, and then seals the tooth with a large filling called a build-up. The dentist will then need to place a crown over the tooth so that it is properly protected.

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Treating Infected & Damaged Teeth

Root canals may be needed for teeth that are inflamed or infected as a result of:

  • Serious decay
  • Chipped and cracks in the tooth
  • Crown complications
  • Repeated procedures performed on the tooth in the past

The Root Canal Treatment Process

Many patients may feel nervous when they are told they need a root canal procedure and dental crown. However, root canal therapy in Peoria is a simple procedure that is very similar to a traditional dental filling. Let’s take a closer look at the process of treating an infected root canal.

Prepare the Tooth

Before a root canal procedure can begin, the affected tooth must be prepared. Local anesthesia will be administered so the patient will feel comfortable. The dentist or endodontist—a dental specialist trained in endodontic therapy—will protect the tooth from any wetness or bacteria by placing a dental dam around it. This dam is a thin piece of plastic that fits between the affected tooth and teeth nearby. The affected tooth will then be sanitized and dried.

Remove the Pulp

After the affected area has been prepared, the dentist will drill into the tooth, usually from the side, to reach the infected pulp and root canals. The dentist will then remove the tooth pulp, tooth nerves, and any signs of infection within the tooth. A tooth can survive without the pulp and nerves, if it is preserved correctly.

Clean the Canals

The root canals must be completely cleaned and sealed against future infections. The dentist will disinfect all the canals to be sure there is no remaining infection. Once he feels positive the inner tooth is safe, he will seal the canals with a material called gutta-percha. This is a rubbery substance that seals the canals from potential bacteria that might cause a future infection.

Place a Crown

Though a root canal procedure saves the tooth root, the tooth’s function can only be restored with a dental crown in place. This part of the treatment may take two visits. The dentist will place a temporary dental crown to protect the tooth until a custom crown can be made, usually within a week. During the second visit, the custom dental crown will be fitted and cemented in place.

Dental Treatment by Our Creve Coeur Dentists

Patients who need a root canal need to have the procedure done quickly. Left untreated, this issue could cause severe issues such as further infection, loss of the tooth, gum problems, and even life-threatening health issues. Here at Creve Coeur Family Dental, we can take care of your root canal and make sure that your dental health is where it should be.

Our Creve Coeur dentists will either perform the dental procedure themselves or refer you to a root canal specialist. Referrals are typically made in cases with special circumstances, such as when the affected tooth already has a crown or when there are teeth with multiple canals and/or curved canals. If you’ve been noticing soreness, pain, or anything else making your teeth and mouth uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to give us a call and schedule an appointment. Reach out to our office by calling 309-698-0220 at your earliest convenience!