Root Canal Therapy in Oak Lawn, IL

What Is Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy is a restorative dental procedure that removes infected or inflamed tissue from inside a tooth. The interior pulp is cleaned, disinfected, and sealed, allowing the tooth to function normally without further pain or infection.

The goal of root canal treatment is to:

• Eliminate bacteria from an infected root canal
• Prevent reinfection of the tooth
• Relieve dental pain and inflammation
• Preserve the natural tooth structure whenever possible

This treatment is often recommended when a tooth has deep decay, trauma, or a crack that allows bacteria to reach the inner nerve tissue.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may be a sign that the pulp of your tooth is damaged or infected:

• Persistent toothache or pressure
• Prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold
• Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the tooth
• Dark discoloration of the tooth
• A recurring pimple or bump on the gum
• Pain when biting or chewing

Dr. Smith will perform a comprehensive dental exam, including digital X-rays, to determine if a root canal is necessary.

What to Expect During Root Canal Treatment

The procedure typically requires one or two visits and is performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. The steps include:

1. Diagnosis and Access
   
   • The area is numbed and an opening is made in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp.
2. Cleaning and Shaping
   
   • Infected pulp tissue is removed, and the canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected.
3. Filling the Root Canals
   
   • The empty canals are filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha to seal the space and prevent reinfection.
4. Restoring the Tooth
   
   • A temporary or permanent filling is placed. In most cases, the tooth will need a dental crown to restore strength and protect it long-term.

At Inside The Smile, we use digital imaging and modern tools to make the process efficient, predictable, and as comfortable as possible.

Benefits of Root Canal Therapy

Choosing to save your natural tooth with root canal therapy offers many benefits:

• Eliminates infection and pain
• Preserves the natural tooth structure
• Prevents shifting of adjacent teeth
• Restores full chewing function
• Avoids the need for tooth extraction and replacement options

When combined with a custom dental crown, the restored tooth can last for many years with normal use and proper care.

Aftercare and Recovery

Following root canal therapy, it’s normal to experience some soreness for a day or two. Most patients manage this with over-the-counter pain medication. To ensure long-term success:

• Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the final crown is placed
• Maintain daily brushing and flossing habits
• Keep up with regular cleanings and exams
• Let us know if you experience any new pain or swelling

We’ll provide specific aftercare instructions tailored to your treatment.