Root Canal Therapy in St. Louis
Root canal therapy can alleviate dental pain and save damaged or infected teeth. Root canals are a common dental procedure that involves removing the nerve tissue and pulp from inside a tooth to prevent bacteria and abscesses from forming, as well as further decay or damage.
If you are experiencing extreme dental pain or sensitivity, root canal therapy in St. Louis can soothe your discomfort and restore the health of your teeth. Dr. John Martin is a leader in the St. Louis dental industry and understands what it takes to ensure that your root canal goes as smoothly as possible and you are happy and confident in your smile.
When is Root Canal Therapy Performed?
A root canal is an endodontic, or "inside the tooth", procedure that is designed to treat inflammation or infection inside of a patient's tooth and protect the tooth from further damage. Generally, if patients display extreme sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures or have swelling, root canal therapy can alleviate discomfort, prevent pain from worsening, and save as much of the damaged tooth as possible.
During your initial consultation, Dr. John Martin will examine the structure of the tooth, perform an x-ray and stimulus test, look for signs of damage and decay, and determine whether you are a candidate for root canal therapy.
Some of the most common signs that a patient could benefit from root canal therapy in St. Louis include if there is evidence of deep decay from an untreated cavity, chips or cracks, or nerve damage done to the surrounding area. Swelling in a patient's face near the damaged tooth or extreme tenderness can also indicate that a patient's tooth is infected or damaged and could require root canal therapy.
What is the Process of Having Root Canal Therapy Done?
Typically, root canal therapy is performed in one or two treatments depending on the severity of the infection or damage done to the tooth. The top of the infected tooth is opened and infected pulp and damaged nerve tissue is removed to prevent infection. The area is then thoroughly cleaned and filled.
If at any point during or after the root canal therapy procedure you experience worsened pain or other symptoms, it's essential to follow-up with your surgical dentist.
Interested in Root Canal Therapy in St. Louis?
If you are suffering from severe toothaches, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, or have had treatment on the same tooth multiple times, root canal therapy in St. Louis could be the right option.
For more information on root canal therapy in St. Louis, and whether you are a good candidate for it, or call (314) 739-1222 (Maryland Heights Location), (573) 764-2425 (Gerald Location), or contact Martin Dental & Associates today to schedule a consultation.