Root Canal Therapy in Rockford, IL
Overcome Dental Decay and Damage with help from Dr. Tillis and His Team
Root canal treatment, also referred to as root canal therapy or endodontic therapy, is used to save an infected or damaged tooth and avoid having to remove it. A root canal becomes necessary when a neglected cavity reaches all the way to the pulp at the center of the tooth, causing the pulp to become infected. Regular cleanings and checkups detect and prevent problems early on.
Trauma can also cause deep damage to the nerve of a tooth. Once this occurs, the pulp becomes infected, and it begins to eat away at the surrounding bone (this is called an abscess). By the time the pulp is infected it must be treated, and cannot heal on its own. It can even weaken the entire immune system, making it very dangerous and painful.
Symptoms of infected pulp may include sensitivity to hot/cold or sweets, pain, swelling, pain with biting or pressure, and a bad taste in the mouth. Sometimes, however, there are no symptoms, and you are unaware of any problem until a checkup.
A root canal is performed to clean out the infected tooth pulp and disinfect the canals of the tooth. The only other treatment would be to extract the tooth. Once the infection is resolved, the canal(s) is filled to prevent any further infection. Crowns are usually recommended to cover and restore a tooth after root canal therapy.
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that involves removing infected or damaged pulp from the inside of a tooth and sealing it to prevent further infection.
Why is a root canal necessary?
Root canals are necessary when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, or a cracked tooth. It helps save the natural tooth from extraction.
How long does a root canal procedure take?
The length of a root canal procedure can vary depending on the complexity of the case. Generally, it takes one to two visits of about 90 minutes each.
Does a root canal hurt?
During the root canal procedure, local anesthesia is used to numb the area, so you should not feel any pain. Some discomfort may be experienced during the recovery period, but it can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
Are there any alternatives to a root canal?
The only alternative to a root canal is tooth extraction. However, it is generally recommended to preserve natural teeth whenever possible, and a root canal allows for that.
How much does a root canal cost?
The cost of a root canal can vary depending on factors such as the location of the tooth, the severity of the problem, and the dentist's expertise. It is best to consult with your dentist or endodontist for an accurate cost estimate.
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