Dr. Kohler provides a full range of general dentistry treatments to keep your teeth beautiful and functional including root Canal Therapy: An Important General Dentistry Procedure Root canal therapy is one of the most vital treatments because it can save a damaged tooth and your overall oral health. This procedure is most appropriate for infected teeth, although it can sometimes be a good option for cracked teeth, as well. Dr. Kohler will use advanced micro aesthetic dental techniques and effective anesthesia to provide a precise, gentle procedure. Through a careful exam, he will determine your candidacy for this treatment. He will recommend root canal therapy only if it is in your best interests. To schedule your root canal therapy procedure, contact our Chicago practice today.
Why Perform a Root Canal?
Root Canal Therapy is an Important General Dentistry Procedure. If you have developed a dental infection, bacteria have moved into the inner pulp inside your tooth, causing inflammation and decay. Your tooth’s nerves and blood vessels are located in your root canals. As the infection spreads, the bacteria can cause significant discomfort, including gum inflammation and abscesses. Bacteria can also destroy most of your teeth. In some cases, the infection can move to surround teeth, your gums, and even your jawbone. During the root canal procedure, Dr. Kohler will clean out your tooth to eliminate the infection. He will also place a dental crown to strengthen your tooth and restore its complete function.
Root canal therapy can also treat a cracked tooth, preventing the crack from getting larger and spreading to your dental roots.
Prior to Treatment
Before recommending treatment, Dr. Kohler will examine your tooth, typically using x-rays and microscopic imaging. These incredibly detailed images will help him evaluate your oral health and the extent of your infection. With a full understanding of your needs, he can make sure that root canal therapy is the optimal treatment for you. Once you are ready to begin treatment, Dr. Kohler will numb your tooth and nearby gums. He will use our Single Tooth Anesthetic System™, a computer-guided method of delivering local anesthesia. The system will determine exactly how much anesthesia you need. Then the syringe will deliver the medication with reduced pressure and discomfort.
Many patients find that our anesthesia and Dr. Kohler’s gentle techniques are enough to set their minds at ease. However, if you are still nervous about your root canal, we can use additional sedation. Nitrous oxide and IV sedation can both be great options, depending on your health needs and the level of your anxiety.
Cleaning Your Tooth
After administering local anesthesia and sedation, Dr. Kohler will begin the root canal procedure itself. First, he will create a small opening in your tooth. Through this access point, he will remove infected dental pulp, bacteria, and other damaged material. He will address both the inner chamber of your tooth and your root canals. Throughout the entire procedure, he will use a microscope and video monitoring system to provide accurate care. With images of your tooth projected on an exam room computer, he can reduce discomfort and eliminate virtually all traces of infection.
Restoring Your Tooth
After removing the infected tooth material, Dr. Kohler will fill the canals with a soft compound called gutta-percha. This rubber-like substance will seal off your tooth so that bacteria cannot get inside. Then Dr. Kohler will prep your tooth for a dental crown. He will reshape the outer portion of your tooth, creating room for the new restoration. Next, he will take impressions, which he will send to our dental lab. In about two weeks, you will return to have your new, custom-crafted crown set into place. Dr. Kohler will make sure that it fits correctly and matches the look of your smile. If you are satisfied with your restoration, he will attach it with a dental composite. After your second appointment, you will typically be able to bite and chew normally. Perhaps most noticeably, you will enjoy a beautiful smile and improved oral health.
Find out If a Root Canal Is Right for You
Contact Dr. Kohler to schedule an exam and benefit from our gentle, state-of-the-art care.