What your dentists in Glenview, IL, want you to know about root canal therapy

If your tooth hurts, sometimes it’s difficult to know what to do. Do you need a filling? Should you get the tooth taken out? Do you need a root canal? The first step is visiting your dentist and your dentist will know what to do.

Your dentists at Glenview Family Dental in Glenview, IL, want to share the facts about root canal therapy and how it can help you keep your whole smile.

So, how do you know if you need a root canal? If you have already had a filling placed, and you still feel pain, you can benefit from root canal therapy. If you have not had a filling placed, you may need a root canal if you notice these signs and symptoms:

• Sharp, stabbing pain when you bite down
• Chronic throbbing pain and pressure in your tooth
• Severe pain after consuming hot and cold foods or drinks

Your tooth may also be infected if you notice changes in your gums around the tooth. You should look for:

• Redness and swelling in your gums near the tooth root
• A white or red bump in your gums near the tooth root
• Drainage or pus coming from your gums near the tooth root

When you visit your dentists at Glenview Family Dental, x-rays will be taken, along with vitality and temperature testing of the painful tooth. With these tests, your dentist will know for sure whether you need a root canal.

If you do need a root canal, the procedure is easier than you think. A small opening is created in the top of your tooth, and the infected tissue inside your tooth is drawn out through the opening. A sedative material is placed inside your tooth which reduces inflammation and pressure. After your tooth has calmed down completely, your dentist will fill your tooth with an inert material and the tooth will be permanently sealed with a small filling. That’s it! You are free of dental pain, and you still have your complete smile!

If you think you may need a root canal, it’s time to visit your dentists at Glenview Family Dental in Glenview, IL. They are the experts, and are ready to help you and your smile, so call today!