Root Canals

Despite its reputation, a root canal can actually relieve pain and save your tooth. At Doc Bram in Lisle, Illinois, experienced dentist Keith Bram, DDS, provides root canals to clear out an infection deep inside your tooth. Call the office today or book your appointment online to schedule your root canal therapy.

What is a root canal?

Root canal therapy saves a tooth when you have an infection deep within the pulp. This pulp contains blood vessels and nerve endings that are important to your tooth’s development. Once your tooth is mature, this pulp is not essential to your tooth’s integrity. 

If bacteria enters through a crack or other defect in the tooth’s enamel, an infection occurs. If the infection goes without treatment, full tooth decay occurs and the tooth must be extracted. 

A root canal saves the tooth by cleaning out the infected pulp. Dr. Bram replaces it with a biocompatible material, called gutta-percha, and caps the tooth with a crown to keep it functioning normally. 

What signs suggest I need a root canal?

If you have serious tooth pain, it may signal that you have an infection and require an emergency root canal. In its earliest stages, an infection of the pulp may not cause pain, but can show up on a routine dental X-ray. 

Serious tooth pain is often a sign that you have an infection that requires an emergency root canal. The beginning of an infection can show up during a routine exam or dental X-ray. 

Other symptoms that suggest you need a root canal include: 

• Prolonged sensitivity to hot and cold
• Abscess or pus drainage
• Swelling in the cheek or gum
• Soreness when chewing or applying pressure to the tooth
• Tooth discoloration

If you experience any of these symptoms, call the office of Doc Bram right away to schedule an appointment. The sooner you get a diagnosis and can schedule a root canal, the better your chance of saving the tooth and avoiding unnecessary pain. 

Is getting a root canal painful?

No one gets excited about having a root canal, but the procedure itself isn’t painful and actually alleviates pain. The most painful part of a root canal is the infection leading to the reason you need one in the first place. 

During your procedure, Dr. Bram numbs the treatment area with a local anesthetic. When the anesthetic wears off, you may have some soreness and sensitivity for a few days. These symptoms gradually ease over the course of a week or so. Over-the-counter medications and ice packs help you stay comfortable. 

If you suspect you need a root canal, don’t delay in reaching out to Doc Bram. Call the office or book your appointment online today.