Root Canal Treatment

What is a root canal?

Also known as endodontic therapy, is the process of treating your inside tooth from decay or infection. This is a process not only removes infection but also prevents your tooth from getting infected in the future. You may rarely notice that the center of your tooth, known as the pulp, is surrounded with blood vessels and nerves until you feel some pain. The blood vessels in the pulp are essential in providing nutrients to your teeth while the nerves assist in sensing cold and hot temperatures as pain. The pain inside your tooth is an indication that the nerves and blood vessels are damaged or irritated.

When the pulp is affected, microorganisms such as bacteria get access into the tooth, creating additional discomfort. The main indication that your tooth is infected varies. In some instances, an infection may spread to your jaw without you noticing. Dr Vanessa Wadden evaluates whether our patients need to undergo the procedure by determining if the nerve could be recovered or whether the infection is present. The procedure is painless and is executed using modern anesthetics, state-of-the-art tech, and medical equipment to facilitate a quick and efficient process for our patients.

Why you may need a endodontic therapy

There are a number of symptoms of infected teeth such as pain in the tooth or gums, sensitivity to hot and cold meals, visible injury or swelling of the tooth. If you experience either of these conditions, we are likely to recommend a painless nonsurgical procedure to treat your pulp.

The affected tooth undergoes a series of procedures, starting with the removal of the affected nerve. The tooth is then cleaned, disinfected, and shaped using fillers. A crown over the top is then placed to return the tooth to its initial status. This treatment guarantees over 90 percent success. On the other hand, if there’s any indication that this procedure will not apply to your condition, our team will provide you with alternatives.

Is undergoing a endodontic therapy safe?

The fast-paced 21st century, having witnessed significant technological changes through the development of various communication mediums, tends to have come with its advantages and disadvantages. One of the significant problems is the circulation of wrong information on the internet. Several articles continue misleading people on the effects of undergoing a the procedure. However, these claims are based on theories that are not backed by any facts or research.

The truth is that most of our patients who undergo root canal have limited chances of becoming ill than any other person. There is no evidence so far claiming that the procedure affects patients adversely. Reliable health organizations in the country like the American Association of Endodontists have conducted extensive studies on the importance of this essential service.

What happens after you get treated?

After the procedure is completed, we will provide you with instructions on how to care for your tooth and manage pain until the scheduled follow-up visit. You may feel soreness or tenderness in your mouth as the tooth heals. These mild conditions, however, can be treated using the medication provided. It is essential to keep your teeth clean by brushing and flossing as usual to prevent infection.

In case you experience any of the following, feel free to contact us immediately.
– Constant pain for more than a few days
– Swelling
– Uneven bite
– Allergic reaction to the medication
– Similar symptoms you experienced prior to your visit

Why you should visit us

We provide all our patients with the best dental services and are recognized as one of the most reliable health facilities in Muscatine. Most people don’t often realize that they need to see a dentist until it’s too late. If you live in Muscatine or the surrounding areas, make sure to book an appointment with us. By having your teeth checked regularly, you minimize the chances of having oral complications and having to undergo expensive procedures.

Our experienced and caring staff, led by Dr Vanessa Wadden, will make your endodontic therapy as comfortable as possible. We offer the best consultation services in identifying dental cavities and other oral health problems. Keep your smile bright and healthy with the general service dentistry of Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry!