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Root Canals

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What Is a Root Canal?

There are more than 15 million root canals performed each year in the United States. This makes it one of the most common dental procedures. This simple procedure can save your natural teeth and prevent unnecessary extractions and tooth replacements.

A root canal is a procedure used to treat severely decayed or infected teeth in Bourbonnais, IL. The inside of a tooth contains a soft material called the pulp. It is a nerve that allows the tooth to feel sensations. If the exterior of a tooth becomes damaged to the point where the pulp is exposed, an infection may occur. A root canal infection symptoms include swelling of the gums and face, increased sensitivity to temperature, and severe toothache. If left untreated, the infection can result in abscesses and, ultimately, tooth loss.

To save the tooth's structure, your dentist at Dr. Raffi Dentistry in Bourbonnais, IL will remove the pulp and clean the inside of your tooth. The only purpose of the nerve is to provide sensory experience, so its removal will not affect the normal function of your tooth. The cavity is then sealed with a dental filling in our dental office in Bourbonnais, IL to prevent further damage. If you are experiencing a severe toothache or sensitivity in Bourbonnais, IL, call us immediately for emergency treatment at Dr. Raffi Dentistry.

Why Do I Need a Root Canal?

Treatment is necessary when the pulp of the tooth becomes inflamed, infected, or dies in Bourbonnais, IL. The pulp contains vital nerves and blood vessels that become infected when bacteria invade it. Bacteria and inflammation are often introduced through a cavity, fracture, or injury. If an infection is left untreated, it can travel throughout the tooth and cause a painful abscess.

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Infected Tooth Symptoms

Sensitivity to hot or cold
Pain with biting
Swelling
Throbbing or severe pain
No symptoms

Benefits of Saving Your Tooth

Efficient chewing
Normal biting force and sensations
Natural appearance
Protects other teeth from excessive wear or stain

Stages of Root Canal Therapy

The tooth is numbed for your comfort. An opening is made through the crown and the nerve is removed.
Each canal is then cleaned and shaped, so it can be filled. Medicine may be placed in the tooth.
The canals are filled with a rubber-like material to seal them.
The tooth is restored with a dental restoration (usually a dental crown in Bourbonnais, IL) to strengthen it.

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