When tooth pain becomes severe or a dental infection develops, a root canal may be the most effective way to save your natural tooth and relieve your discomfort. Despite their reputation in popular culture, modern root canal procedures are relatively comfortable and similar to getting a routine filling. This tooth-saving treatment addresses infection and damage that have reached the inner pulp chamber of your tooth, where the nerves and blood vessels reside.
At Dental Group of Chicago, we perform root canal procedures with a gentle touch and advanced techniques to ensure your comfort throughout the process. Our extended hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and our availability on Saturdays make it easier to schedule this important treatment without disrupting your busy schedule. Our doctors are committed to preserving your natural teeth whenever possible and providing relief from dental pain.
What Is a Root Canal, and Why Might You Need One?
A root canal in South Loop, Chicago is a dental procedure that treats infection or inflammation in the pulp chamber of a tooth. This inner chamber contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue that can become infected due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, cracks, or trauma to the tooth. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed, it can cause significant pain and eventually lead to an abscess if left untreated.
You might need a root canal if you experience symptoms such as:
- Severe tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers after the stimulus is removed
- Discoloration or darkening of the tooth
- Swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums
- A persistent or recurring pimple on the gums
- Deep decay or a large filling that approaches the pulp chamber
Sometimes, a tooth requiring root canal treatment shows no symptoms at all, which is why regular dental exams are crucial for catching problems before they become painful emergencies. Through routine X-rays and examinations, we can identify infected teeth that might otherwise go unnoticed until significant damage occurs.
How the Root Canal Procedure Works
Understanding what happens during a root canal can help ease any anxiety you might feel about the procedure. At Dental Group of Chicago, we’ve refined our approach to make the experience as comfortable as possible.
The root canal procedure typically involves several steps:
- Thorough examination and x-rays to assess the extent of infection and plan the procedure
- Local anesthesia to ensure you feel no pain during treatment
- Placement of a dental dam, a small protective sheet that isolates the tooth and keeps it clean and dry
- Creation of a small access opening in the crown of the tooth
- Careful removal of the infected or inflamed pulp tissue
- Cleaning, shaping, and disinfection of the root canals
- Filling the canals with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha
- Sealing the tooth with a temporary or permanent filling
- Placement of a crown or other restoration to protect the tooth and restore full function
Most root canals can be completed in one or two appointments, depending on the complexity of your case and the extent of the infection. We use modern rotary instruments and advanced techniques to make the procedure more efficient and comfortable.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment in South Loop, Chicago
Choosing to save your natural tooth through root canal therapy offers numerous advantages over extraction. Understanding these benefits can help you make an informed decision about your dental health.
Preservation of Natural Dentition
Your natural teeth are designed to work together for efficient chewing, proper alignment, and a natural appearance. When you lose a tooth, these functions can be compromised. A root canal allows you to keep your natural tooth, maintaining:
- Normal biting force and sensation
- Efficient chewing function
- Natural appearance
- Protection of other teeth from excessive wear or strain
While dental implants and bridges offer excellent tooth replacement options, preserving your natural tooth whenever possible is generally the preferred approach for long-term oral health.
Relief from Pain and Infection
One of the most immediate benefits of root canal treatment is the relief from pain. Infected pulp tissue can cause severe discomfort, and removing this tissue eliminates the source of that pain. Additionally, treating the infection helps prevent it from spreading to other areas of your face, neck, or bloodstream.
Untreated dental infections can lead to serious complications, including:
- Abscess formation
- Bone loss around the root tip
- Swelling that may spread to other areas of the face and neck
- Systemic infection in severe cases
By addressing the infection promptly with root canal treatment, you protect both your oral and overall health.
Recovery and Aftercare
Following your root canal treatment in South Loop, you may experience some mild discomfort for a few days. This is normal and typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. We’ll provide specific aftercare instructions, but generally, you should:
- Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your permanent restoration is placed
- Continue regular brushing and flossing
- Take any prescribed medications as directed
- Attend all follow-up appointments
- Complete the restoration process with a crown or permanent filling
Most patients can return to their normal activities the day after treatment. If you experience severe pain or swelling, or if your bite feels uneven after the numbness wears off, contact our office right away.
Choose Dental Group of Chicago for Your Root Canal Needs
At Dental Group of Chicago, we understand that dental procedures can cause anxiety for many patients. That’s why we prioritize your comfort throughout the root canal process. Our extended hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and availability on Saturdays ensure you can schedule your treatment at a time that works for your busy life. We also offer after-hours appointments for dental cleanings, emphasizing our commitment to preventative care that helps you avoid more extensive procedures.
Our skilled dental team combines gentle techniques with advanced technology to make your root canal experience as smooth and comfortable as possible. We take the time to thoroughly explain your treatment options and answer any questions you may have. Don’t continue to suffer from tooth pain or risk losing a natural tooth that could be saved. Contact us today at (312) 588-0043 or through our contact form to schedule your evaluation.
