Things You Should Know Before Your Root Canal Appointment: Insights from a Root Canal Dentist in Forest Glen, Chicago

Root canal dentist in Forest Glen Chicago

Do you have a root canal appointment coming up on your schedule? If so, and if you are unfamiliar with what a root canal treatment entails, you most likely have several questions regarding what will happen during this dental procedure. We are here to answer those questions.

Although there is a misconception that root canals are complex and extremely painful, they can do wonders for your overall dental health. For some people, delaying the root canal treatment can result in an avalanche of additional dental problems as time goes on, which is why it’s best to take care of them early on.

To help you prepare for what’s ahead, this root canal dentist in Forest Glen, Chicago is going to explain what a root canal is and what the process entails.

What is it, and why do you need it?

A root canal (also known as an endodontic treatment) is a dental procedure used to remove bacteria from the infected root canal, prevent reinfection of the tooth and save the natural tooth. This procedure will help protect your natural tooth, ease discomfort, and restore the health of your teeth.

The American Association of Endodontists (AAE) emphasizes that when the dental pulp (or tissue in the center of a tooth) becomes inflamed or infected, root canal treatment becomes necessary. Some other reasons for visiting a root canal dentist in Forest Glen, Chicago include the following:

  • Significant decay from an untreated cavity
  • Sensitive teeth
  • Toothache during biting or chewing
  • Bumps or boils on gums 
  • Black gums
  • Tender or sore gums
  • Chipped or cracked tooth
  • Dental abscess

There are plenty of benefits of undergoing a root canal treatment. They may include:

  • It allows for more efficient chewing.
  • It restores normal bite force and occlusal sensation.
  • It gives your tooth a natural appearance.
  • It protects the teeth around it from excessive wear and strain.

Is this dental procedure painful?

You have been told that you need to undergo a root canal treatment to save your tooth and rid yourself of infection, and you are concerned about how painful the procedure will be.

Root canals have always been notoriously painful, so it is reasonable to be worried about your upcoming appointment. However, a root canal procedure from a reputable root canal dentist in Forest Glen, Chicago — like Gordon J. Ziols (DDS, FAGD) — is easy and painless.

Although there is some discomfort involved with the procedure, modern techniques and anesthetics have made root canal procedures more comfortable. You may feel some pressure on your tooth during the process, but nothing more than that.

For a few days following the treatment, you may experience tooth sensitivity. This is temporary and can be relieved by using over the counter or prescription medication. Many patients have even reported being able to return to their daily lives shortly after the procedure.

It is crucial to keep in mind that if the pain or discomfort lasts for more than a week, you should schedule an appointment with your root canal dentist in Forest Glen, Chicago.

Looking for the Most Trusted Root Canal Dentist in Forest Glen, Chicago?

Being prepared for a root canal appointment can help alleviate some of the anxiety individuals may feel leading up to their appointment. Have you been informed that you need a root canal, or are you experiencing symptoms? If so, and if you are looking to visit the top-rated root canal dentist in Forest Glen, Chicago, look no further than Dr. Gordon J. Ziols and the team at Smile Innovations. Contact our office today at (773) 763-1000 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ziols.