At the center of each tooth lies the pulp, a soft tissue containing blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. This pulp sits beneath the hard outer layers of enamel and dentin. When the pulp becomes injured or infected, it can lead to swelling, discomfort, and infection. Even if there are no visible symptoms, bacteria inside the root canal can silently cause decay and eventually damage the jawbone. In many cases, a root canal treatment is necessary to save the affected tooth and prevent further complications.A root canal procedure removes the inflamed or infected pulp, cleans the inside of the tooth, and seals it to stop infection from spreading. This treatment is often needed when issues like repeated dental work, deep cavities, cracked or chipped teeth, or traumatic injury affect the tooth’s inner structure.

As with any dental procedure, root canal treatment carries some potential risks. In rare cases, the damage to the tooth may be too extensive, and treatment may not be successful, possibly resulting in tooth loss. Complications like an abscess can occur if infected pulp isn’t fully removed or if antibiotic treatment is ineffective. However, these complications are uncommon.Overall, root canal procedures are considered very safe and effective, with success rates ranging from 86% to 98%.If you’re in Hermosa, Logan Square, Oak Park, or elsewhere in the Chicago area, our experienced dental team can guide you through the root canal process with expert care and thorough follow-up to ensure lasting results.

After the dental implant procedure, it is normal to experience some swelling and discomfort around the implant site. Minor bleeding and bruising of the gums and surrounding skin may also occur. These symptoms can typically be managed with prescribed pain relievers and antibiotics when needed. Most patients find that these side effects gradually improve within a few days.During the healing period, it’s recommended to stick to a soft-food diet to support bone recovery. Most implant procedures involve dissolvable stitches, so there’s usually no need for a follow-up visit to have them removed. These stitches generally dissolve or fall out within 7 to 10 days. Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions carefully will help ensure a smooth and speedy healing process.

While root canal treatment is a highly effective way to restore infected or damaged teeth, it’s always best to prevent the need for one in the first place. Fortunately, avoiding a root canal is simple with a consistent oral hygiene routine and proactive dental care.To reduce the risk of tooth decay—a leading cause of root canals—be sure to brush your teeth twice daily and floss once a day. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are also essential. If you begin to feel pain, sensitivity, or discomfort, it’s important to seek dental care immediately to address the issue before it progresses. At our dental office serving Hermosa, Logan Square, Oak Park, and the greater Chicago area, we emphasize preventive care to help our patients avoid the need for complex treatments like root canals. By practicing daily care and seeing your dentist regularly, you can keep your natural teeth healthy and strong.

The goal of root canal treatment is to save and preserve the natural tooth. One of the biggest benefits of root canals is getting rid of pain and infection in the mouth. Additional benefits include:

• Improved appearance: After root canal treatment, the patient will receive a crown or filling that restores their tooth's aesthetic appearance.
• Reduced risk for further decay: Removal of the infected dental pulp prevents the bacteria from spreading and damaging the surrounding teeth.
• Permanent: Dental implants are one of the most permanent tooth replacement options. They can last a lifetime with good care. Additionally, fixed replacement teeth on implants do not need to be removed every day for cleaning.
• Restored function: Root canals restore a tooth's health to function like any other tooth.