Whether it’s for the relief of tooth pain or to preserve a damaged or decayed tooth, a root canal is an effective dental procedure.

A root canal is needed when untreated dental decay and bacteria cause an infection in the inner part of your tooth (the pulp). The nerves and blood vessels inside your tooth are protected by a hard, outer layer of enamel and a soft tissue called the pulp.

If this soft tissue is infected, it causes severe pain. The infection could spread to the roots of your tooth, causing an abscess. Infected teeth are often painful to chew with and can be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.

When a root canal is performed, the dentist removes infected tissue and cleans the infected chamber and root canal. This procedure is necessary to save your tooth, and it can also prevent the spread of infection to other parts of your body.

Depending on your individual case, a root canal usually takes one or two office visits. However, if the treatment is necessary due to an abscess or other issues, it may take longer.

The Procedure

The initial appointment includes a complete examination of your mouth and teeth, including x-rays, to identify the source of your tooth pain. The dentist will listen to your symptoms and determine if root canal therapy is the best option for you.

After the procedure, you will need to wait for a few days while your tooth heals. Most patients report a quick, pain-free recovery.

A Sarasota FL Root Canal Specialist will use anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the procedure. Then, he or she will make an opening through the crown of your tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canal. The infected tissue and debris are removed, the canals are cleaned and shaped and a filling is placed to seal them.

Once the canals are filled, a dental crown is then placed to protect the treated tooth and restore its function. The restoration is made to look like a natural tooth, and it is stronger than your own tooth enamel.

Why Root Canals?

A root canal is needed when the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected due to deep decay, trauma or a crack. This pulp contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissues that nourish a tooth during its development. When this tissue becomes infected, it can no longer nourishe the tooth and can eventually die.

Some of the most common signs of a diseased tooth that requires root canal treatment include: Tooth pain that doesn’t go away; Sensitivity to heat and cold; dark discoloration around the tooth or gums; swelling or tenderness in your mouth; and a fever or chills.

If you have any of these signs, call us right away to schedule your root canal appointment. We will help you get rid of your tooth pain and avoid other serious health problems.

Although some people believe that root canals are dangerous, they’re actually a safe and effective way to treat an infected tooth. The American Dental Association reports that root canals are the most commonly performed dental procedure in the United States.

Getting your teeth cleaned and whitened is a great way to improve your oral health and enhance your appearance. A bright, white smile can help you feel confident and beautiful. This is especially true if your teeth are discolored or stained from eating certain foods, smoking, or drinking alcohol.

In order to achieve the best results, you need to have your teeth whitened at a dental office. Over-the-counter solutions aren’t as effective as professional whitening methods, and overuse can destroy your tooth enamel and gums. You may also experience sensitivity, which is temporary. The solution will not work on caps or crowns.

If you want to brighten your teeth and enhance your smile, you can find a professional Chicago teeth cleaning and whitening service at The Chicago Lux Smiles. Their staff will help you choose the best method of treatment to achieve the result you’re looking for.

Before you can start a whitening treatment, your dentist will need to clean your teeth and remove any tartar or plaque. This will allow the whitening gel to penetrate the surface of your teeth, break up stains, and make your teeth look whiter. You should follow a good oral hygiene routine at home, including brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day. Your dentist may also recommend you use a take-home whitening kit.

Some people opt for in-office whitening, which offers faster results. These treatments utilize the most powerful whitening solutions to make your teeth up to eight shades lighter than before. You can expect dramatic results in an hour. Your dentist will provide you with a shade guide to determine which shade you are currently at, and will match it to the desired shade. You can then lie down in the chair while your teeth are being whitened. You’ll be able to watch your favorite TV show or movie while you wait for the whitening to complete.

Once the whitening is complete, you’ll need to keep your teeth white by avoiding stain-causing foods and beverages. It is also a good idea to brush after meals to ensure that your teeth are free from debris. If you’re planning to go on vacation, you can pack a teeth bleaching tray so you can lighten your teeth while you’re away. You can use the tray at work as well, so you can have a whiter, brighter smile while you’re on the road.

Your dentist will also evaluate the condition of your teeth. If they need to be repaired, you can have them whitened before you have them fixed. If your teeth are stained, you may want to consider veneers to cover the stains. They will be custom made to match the color of your surrounding teeth, so they won’t yellow like your natural teeth.

Your teeth are susceptible to discoloration from aging, smoking, drinking alcohol, or eating acidic foods. They can be affected by medication interactions, nerve damage, and poor brushing and flossing habits. They can also be affected by cigarette smoke, which is the leading cause of stubborn tooth stains.