Root Canals in Council Bluffs, IA

The goal of a root canal is to preserve a natural tooth that has suffered pulp damage. During the procedure, the pulp and nerve are removed, then the tooth is filled with an inert material called gutta-percha. This prevents bacteria from entering the tooth, which would otherwise lead to an infection. 

In most cases, a tooth with a root canal can last as long as your other natural teeth. A damaged tooth may need to be extracted if a root canal is not performed. This can lead to chewing and eating issues and loss of self-confidence. When you visit us at Western Iowa Dental, our dentist can recommend the best action to preserve your natural smile.

If our dentist recommends a root canal, you don’t need to worry about pain or discomfort as we will do our best to ensure you have a positive experience. We will explain what to expect during the procedure and offer solutions for pain and anxiety management. To alleviate any anxiety, you could also consider bringing a friend or family member to your appointment for support. 

When Is a Root Canal Needed?

When a tooth becomes infected, the pain can be excruciating and will continue until the tooth is treated. A root canal removes the infection from inside the tooth. The treatment involves removing the damaged part of the tooth and hollowing out the infected area. Once the area is cleaned, it is filled with a rubbery substance called gutta-percha. This material is used to seal the tooth off to prevent future infections or decay. 

The entire process may take a couple of appointments, but patients will see a massive improvement in their symptoms almost immediately. Patients should care for the treated area by brushing and flossing daily and attending regular checkups and cleanings.

How Do I Know If I Need a Root Canal?

If you have persistent pain in your mouth, you may have an infection in your tooth or jawbone. This infection can cause significant tooth sensitivity and even cause your tooth to fall out entirely if you don’t seek treatment immediately. Root canal therapy is the most effective way to clear the infection from your tooth, saving it from extraction and allowing you to keep your natural smile intact. 

During your procedure, we will clean the infected tissue and seal the tooth with a dental crown to provide extra strength and protection. Your new crown will look, feel, and function like a natural tooth. 

If you’re experiencing pain or sensitivity in your teeth, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Visit Western Iowa Dental at 1509 Ave G, Council Bluffs, IA 51501, or call (712) 325-1544 to schedule an appointment for a root canal so you can begin treatment and alleviate your pain as soon as possible.