What Is a Root Canal?
Bacteria can enter the tooth structure through cracks, chips, and cavities. When that bacteria enters, it can cause the pulp within the tooth roots to become infected. Root canal treatment is a dental procedure in which infected tissue, such as the pulp and blood vessels, are removed from the tooth roots. This restores your oral health, prevents the spread of harmful bacteria, and can alleviate pain associated with the infection.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
Restore Oral Health
Infection poses a risk to your oral and overall health if left untreated. A root canal can restore your oral health and prevent the spread of infection.
Preserve Tooth Structure
A root canal addresses the infection while allowing your dentist to preserve the tooth structure.
Alleviate Pain
Many people experience painful symptoms when the tooth becomes infected. A root canal eliminates the infection and alleviates your pain.
Worried Your Root Canal Will Be Painful? We Numb the Site & Offer Sedation
Root canals are often misunderstood and believed to be painful. This is not true. Our entire team goes above and beyond to ensure your complete comfort. The area will be thoroughly numbed before treatment begins.
Still nervous about treatment? Dental fear and anxiety are common. Our Kenilworth dentist offers oral conscious sedation to ensure you can comfortably receive the dental care you need for a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile.
Are You Experiencing Signs of a Tooth Infection? Request a Consultation
An infected tooth can be painful and put you at risk for further oral health complications. Dr. Art Carpenter performs this procedure from start to finish at our state-of-the-art location. We go above and beyond to help ensure a comfortable experience.
If you are experiencing signs of a tooth infection, request a consultation by filling out our online form or by calling our office in Kenilworth, IL. We're happy to help patients in Evanston, Glenview, and surrounding areas.
(847) 251-5004
Hear from a Real Patient
"The very best Dentist on the North Shore. Procedurally, he is top tier and mentors up-and-coming dentists, yet is still a young, energetic guy. Best "chairside" manner around - super clean office with absolutely the top tier equipment and the latest techniques. Will refer out endodontic work to terrific local practices, but his reconstruction work is strictly first level. His staff and hygienists are basically family and have been with him from the genesis of his practice. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED." Bill Hoerter
Take a Closer Look at a Root Canal
Root Canal Treatment Step-by-Step
It's a common misconception root canals are painful. In fact, they can help alleviate your discomfort.
Are you in pain or showing signs of an infection? Do you live in or near Evanston or Glenview? Call our dentistry office in Kenilworth, IL, to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals
Q. Why not pull an infected tooth?
A. Even a single missing tooth can cause issues such as further tooth loss, shifting teeth, and jawbone atrophy. A root canal preserves the tooth structure to prevent these issues. Your dentist will only perform a tooth extraction as a last resort.
Q. What if the tooth cannot be saved?
A. You still have options if the tooth or teeth are beyond saving. Dr. Carpenter can perform an extraction, then place a dental implant and life-like restoration to replace the missing tooth. Dental implants act as artificial tooth roots to stimulate the jaw and support dental crowns, bridges, and dentures.
Q. Do I need to see an endodontist for my root canal?
A. No. While an endodontist specializes in treatments like root canals, our dentist and dental team have the skill and experience to provide a wide range of treatments. This means you can get the care you need, including dental crown placement, in one location. Endodontists perform limited treatments and may not place your dental crown, so patients often need to visit their dentist for crown placement following their root canal. We can treat you from start to finish.
Q. Can't I just take an antibiotic for an infection or abscess?
A. Once the infection reaches the tooth roots and pulp, antibiotics are often not enough to eliminate the infection. Some patients may require antibiotics in conjunction with a root canal. In most cases, patients find relief with this dental procedure and do not require antibiotics.
Have more questions?
"Easily the most skilled dentist in the chicago land area. Highly recommended!" kross51788