Kansas City Dentist, Dentist in Kansas City, MO

Root Canal (Endodontics)

Endodontics is the dental specialty that deals with the nerves of the teeth.  Root canals are probably the most notorious procedure in dentistry and the most common procedure relating to endodontics.  When a tooth becomes infected it is usually related to the nerves in the root of the tooth.  The infected nerves need to be removed.  If left untreated an infection can turn into an abscess, which is a much more serious problem that includes bone loss in the jaw.

Root Canal
-A root canal is a dental procedure to remove an infection from the canals (roots) of the tooth via an opening on the biting surface of the tooth
-The inside of the tooth will be filled with medicine and a filling material.
-Depending upon the extent of the infection, the root canal may take two separate visits to complete.
-If necessary, you may be prescribed an antibiotic, and you should take it accordingly.

What to Expect?
-You will probably be under the effects of anesthetic for several hours following your treatment. Please use caution when eating or drinking anything  while you are numb.
-Occasionally there is soreness in the injection site, which can last for a day or two.
-Your tooth will be sensitive for a few days following your root canal, and Ibuprofen/Tylenol may help with this sensitivity.
-Root canals are about 85%-95% effective in saving the tooth?

When to Call the Office
-If you are still experiencing pain or pressure in the tooth one week after your root canal.
-If the bite does not feel balanced and even when the anesthetic has worn off.
 

If you experience any problems after normal business hours, please call the office and  leave a message on the answering machine. Dr. Beyer will be paged and return your call.

Post-Op Instructions after Scaling Root Planing

• Only one quadrant to one half of the mouth is treated at a visit. Remember to keep all appointments to complete the treatment on the opposite side. 
• you can expect to notice less redness, less bleeding, and less swelling of your gum tissues. 
• your teeth may feel smoother, and your mouth will taste and feel better 
• you will be numb for several hours after the appointment. Avoid any chewing until the numbness has completely worn off. 
• Ibuprofen (Motrin or Advin) can be taken before the anesthetic wears off. 1-2 tablets every 4-6 hours as needed. 
• It is not unusual for the teeth to be more sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, andlor sweets. Use sensitivity toothpaste if needed, 2-3 times per day. 
• A soft diet is recommended for the first few days, chewing on the opposite side. 
• Walin salt water rinses for the first couple of days, several times per day. 
• Consistent and thorough daily oral hygiene is essential to the proper healing of your gum tissues. Your gum health must be maintained with proper homecare, as instructed, and regular professional care.