Root Canals in O’Fallon IL
Root canal treatment is required when the pulp is injured or diseased. The pulp is the tissue inside of the tooth that contains the blood vessels and nerves. The pulp is made up of the pulp chamber which is located in the center of the tooth portion which is visible above the gums. It extends into the roots of the tooth via the root canal to the tip of the root which lies in the bone of the jaws. A tooth can have more than one root and several canals.
Common Causes of Pulp Disease or Injury
- Tooth decay
- A deep cavity which required a large filling
- Cracked or fractured tooth
- All which may allow bacteria to enter and infect the pulp
Signs and Symptoms
- Pain to thermal changes hot and cold
- Spontaneous pain or pain that wakes you up at night
- Constant pain
- Tooth pain to biting or touch
- Swelling of the gum tissues above or around the tooth
The injured or diseased pulp must be removed or the tissues surrounding the root can become infected which can result in pain and swelling. Often there is no pain but the bacteria can cause damage to the bone. Untreated the tooth may have to be extracted.
Root canal treatment will involve one or more visits to complete. The pulp is removed and the canals are filled with a soft material called gutta-percha. In most cases a filling will be required to build the tooth up and a crown will need to be placed which protects the tooth from further fracture.
At Lake Pointe Dental both the doctors have had additional training in root canal treatment and can treat most cases. Due to our training and experience we know when it is in our patients best interest to refer to a specialist. If root canal treatment is required we will evaluate the tooth and determine the best treatment plan.