Are you worried that you might need a root canal? If so, you may be wondering what to expect for root canal therapy at our McHenry dental practice. Severe, persistent pain and throbbing, increased tooth sensitivity, and pain while chewing are among the many signs of infection and may indicate pulpal nerve damage. If Dr. Deepa Williams, DDS has recommended root canal therapy as part of your treatment plan, you may be wondering what the future will hold. You may even feel tense or nervous about your upcoming procedure.
But don’t worry, root canal therapy isn’t all that bad! In fact, many of our patients report experiencing little to no pain at all during the procedure. Below, we’ve shared some information about what to expect for the process.
What Is a Root Canal?
Your teeth have roots that reach deep into your gums and connect them to your jaw bone. Tooth roots contain narrow cavities or spaces referred to as canals. The canals are filled with tooth pulp, which is made of blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. Sometimes, this tissue can become infected or inflamed due to dental decay, trauma, or cracks that form in the teeth.
A root canal is a procedure used to remove infected pulp and disinfect the canals of the teeth. By using this technique, Dr. Williams is able to save teeth that have suffered considerable damage or decay.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
The only sure way to know if you need a root canal is to visit our office in McHenry for a dental exam. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, please be sure to schedule an appointment with our dentist right away:
• Your tooth is chipped or cracked
• You have persistent pain in your tooth
• Your gums, neck, or face are swollen and/or tender
• Chewing is painful and so is putting any pressure on your tooth
• Your gums look darker than normal or have small bumps
• Your tooth has become unusually sensitive to hot or cold temperatures
Root Canal Treatment Process
Dr. Deepa Williams, DDS is an experienced Dentist and one of the top-rated root canal specialists in the McHenry area. She is practiced in performing complex root canal cases, re-treatment endo cases, broken instruments retrieval, non-surgical treatment of periapical cystic lesions, and extremely curved roots endodontic management.
To determine the best path for treatment, Dr. Williams will perform a comprehensive exam and CBCT scan. This will allow her to gain useful insight about your root anatomy and the issues at hand. Next, she will work to remove the infected pulp using the WaveOne Endo System. Dr. Williams will use EndoActivator to conduct a thorough, ultrasonic cleaning of the canal system. This technology helps to ensure a great seal at the apex, preventing any microbial leakage.
Then, you will return to our office for a follow up appointment. During your return visit, Dr. Williams will work to strengthen and protect your tooth by placing a full coverage restoration (such as a crown, inlay or onlay).
Get Advice from McHenry’s Top Root Canal Specialist
Dr. Deepa Williams, DDS is the top root canal specialist in the McHenry area. For more information regarding root canal therapy or your dental health in general, please contact our office by calling (815) 385-0777 today.