Root canal procedures have a bad reputation. The idea of them has become synonymous with unpleasant things. “I’d rather get a root canal than go to work today!.” Most patients that undergo root canal therapy are surprised that the level of discomfort is pretty similar to getting a regular filling in a cavity. Removing deep infection from the roots of your teeth can actually save you from needing a completely new smile.
Inside Your Teeth
Root canals are passageways inside your teeth. They branch from just below the crown of your teeth down to the tip of the roots. You have one to four roots in each tooth. These roots are located in the pulp of your teeth, along with blood vessels, nerves and other tissues. When roots get over-run by bacteria, infection can spread and turn into an abscessed tooth. Without proper treatment, there’s a good chance you’ll have to have the entire unhealthy tooth extracted, and then you’ll need to decide whether to opt for a fixed dental bridge, or a dental implant, to restore your smile.
The Root Canal Procedure
Before you get to the stage where you say goodbye to an entire tooth, a root canal procedure will stop the infection and restore full function to your decaying tooth. The diseased tissue will be removed, and the area will be cleansed and disinfected. Dentists are able to actually reshape root canals, and fill the area with infection preventing medicine. A temporary filling or crown will be placed over where the tissues have been removed, to protect the pulp while you await your next appointment. At that point, a custom-made crown will be affixed, and you will have fully functioning teeth again.
ABOUT YOUR WILMETTE DENTIST:
Dr. Brent Engelberg and his highly-skilled team proudly serve patients and their families from Arlington Heights, IL, and all surrounding communities, including; Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Skokie, Evanston, Palatine, Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Rolling Meadows, and the Northern and Northwest Chicago Suburbs. To learn more, schedule a consultation online, or call our office today at 847-259-8030.
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