02
Dec
How we make the Root Canal process painless
Few phrases can incite groans as quickly as “root canal.” While this procedure has a reputation for being incredibly painful, and many patients fear getting root canal therapy, the truth is that when performed by an experienced dentist like Dr. Dean Dietrich, they really can be painless! At Pleasant Dental® in Dolton, Illinois, we take several steps to ensure that you are comfortable and pain-free throughout your root canal treatment.
Why a root canal might be recommended
Root canal treatment is designed to save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. Root canal therapy might be recommended in the following circumstances, among others:
- Infection or abscess in the tooth
- Deep decay that has penetrated into the pulp
- Traumatic injuries to the tooth
- Repeated dental procedures have been performed on a tooth
During the procedure, the tooth’s inner contents (the pulp) are removed, including the pain-sensing nerves and blood vessels. The tooth is then filled with a material called gutta-percha and sealed off to restore its shape and prevent future infection. While root canal treatment has a few more steps, the procedure is much like getting a filling placed from a patient’s perspective.
Comfortable root canal treatment is possible
Modern anesthetics are very effective at providing a comfortable experience for most dental procedures. However, it can be difficult to completely numb a tooth that is already painful due to bacterial infiltration. When this occurs, and a root canal procedure is performed, the patient can have an uncomfortable experience in the dental chair. At Pleasant Dental®, we avoid this situation with a simple solution: providing our patients with antibiotics before their treatment, rather than afterward. By addressing the painful infection prior to the procedure, anesthetics are better able to completely numb the tooth, and the patient is much more comfortable.
Should I just get the tooth extracted?
Because root canal therapy has a bad reputation, you might have wondered if it would be better to go down the extraction route. However, we typically recommend avoiding extractions if at all possible. Why? Because in addition to extracting the tooth, you will eventually need to replace it to preserve the appearance, function, and health of your smile. While there have been remarkable advances in tooth replacement technology over the last few decades, there is simply no better option than a natural tooth. In the end, root canal therapy is a less painful, less costly, and less time-consuming option.
Painless root canal treatments near me in Dolton, IL
If you are experiencing tooth pain, seeing your dentist promptly can be the difference between saving and losing your tooth and can prevent you from experiencing unnecessary ongoing pain. Dr. Dean Dietrich will perform an in-depth evaluation of your oral health, talk with you about your symptoms, and discuss your treatment options along with their pros and cons, so you feel completely comfortable with your path going forward.
To schedule your appointment at our Dolton, IL office, call (708) 576-1900 or request your appointment online!
Dean Dietrich, DDM
Dr. Dean Dietrich has been practicing dentistry since 1986, when he received his Doctor of Dental Medicine from Southern Illinois University's School of Dental Medicine. He had completed his undergraduate studies in business marketing and management at Michigan State University from 1978 to 1982.He opened Pleasant Dental in 2003 to provide excellent dental care and value for his patients. He is especially skilled and experienced with root canals, implants, and handling dental anxiety.
Dr. Dietrich is a member of the American Dental Association, Illinois State Dental Society, Chicago Dental Society, and the Indian Dental Association. He is licensed in Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan and has orthodontic certification from the Academy of GP Orthodontics. Multiple agencies have recognized him annually as one of America’s Top Dentists.
