Root Canal Therapy in Wausau, WI

We offer gentle root canal treatments in Wausau, WI.

Why does root canal therapy have such a bad reputation? The truth is that this procedure is relatively simple and can allow us to save a tooth that we might otherwise have to pull. Thanks to advances in dental technology and improved techniques, you are unlikely to feel any discomfort during the procedure, and it will relieve the pain you are currently experiencing.

A root infection can be excruciating, leading to a dental emergency. We are here for your root canal therapy and your dental emergencies.

If you have a root infection or suspect you might have one, contact our dental office today to schedule an exam.

Also, read through the FAQs below to learn more about root infection and emergency dentistry in Wausau.

man holding jawWhat is root canal therapy?

Although many people refer to the root canal therapy procedure as simply “a root canal,” your root canal is part of the anatomy of your tooth. The pulp chamber and the nerve of your tooth are both housed in the root canal.

Sometimes, the root canal can become infected. This infection is often painful and can cause the death of the tooth’s root. If your tooth’s root dies, the tooth itself will eventually become discolored and fall out.

Root canal therapy treats the infection in the root canal by removing the infected material from the tooth. Your dentist fills the tooth to protect and stabilize it, as well as to prevent the infection from recurring. If necessary, we may also cover the affected tooth with a crown to provide further protection.

Will my root canal treatment hurt?

Although most people fear root canals because they believe they are painful, thanks to advancements in dental technology and techniques, you most likely won’t feel a thing during your procedure!

While you may feel some discomfort following the procedure because of the body’s inflammatory process while you heal, it won’t last long. It can usually be treated with over-the-counter medication like Tylenol or Advil.

Most people who need root canal therapy are already in pain from a toothache (which is likely where the idea of root canal treatment being painful came from). The root canal therapy will relieve that pain and treat the infection. Most people feel a vast improvement right away!

Don’t let the root canal’s lousy reputation prevent you from getting the treatment you need. Root canal therapy can save your natural tooth and prevent an extraction. In most cases, preserving the natural tooth is the better choice for both your dental health and your wallet! While extraction might seem more straightforward, the fact is, missing teeth contribute to a whole host of other problems, including bone loss, bite misalignments, and jaw pain.

If you are experiencing pain in a tooth, please don’t hesitate. Call our Wausau dental office today so we can get you in, determine the cause, and recommend an appropriate treatment.

Do I need root canal treatment?

If you need a root canal, you will often have one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Severe pain in the tooth, particularly when pressure is applied
  • Pain and sensitivity that are triggered by changes in temperature
  • Discoloration of the tooth
  • Swelling of the gum or cheek
  • A pimple-like lesion that appears on the gums adjacent to the tooth

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t delay. Waiting to treat the problem could result in the infection spreading to other teeth or even throughout your system, creating further complications and discomfort.

Root canal therapy is safe and effective, with more than a 95 percent success rate.

What happens after a root canal?

After your root canal treatment, you may experience some sensitivity and discomfort in the tooth. Medication typically controls this, and we will discuss which options are right for you. As your body adjusts and realizes that it no longer has to fight an infection, the inflammation and sensitivity will fade away as well. Most people return to a healthy level of activity later that day or by the following day.

Dr. Kim will also provide advice as to when you can expect your tooth to be fully restored to functionality. Depending on the extent of the infection, your tooth may require further restoration, and Dr. Kim will discuss this with you.

first aid kitIs a root infection a dental emergency?

Your emergency dentist in Wausau, WI considers anything that causes your pain or threatens your health—oral and physical—a dental emergency.

Because a root canal is an infection, it is critical to treat this infection before it spreads to surrounding teeth or other parts of your body.

Additionally, the pain associated with root infection can be excruciating, and we never want to see you in pain.

If you have symptoms of a root infection or other dental emergency, we want you to contact our dental office as soon as possible.

What if I need a dental extraction?

Your dentist in Wausau will work hard to save your damaged or infected tooth, but in some cases, the injury is too severe. In other cases, you may simply prefer extraction to treatment.

In our dental office, we provide gentle tooth extractions, and your gentle dentist will not begin work until you are relaxed, and the area is sufficiently numb.

Following tooth extraction and healing, we can help with quality tooth replacement options, including:

  • Dentures
  • Partial dentures
  • Dental bridges
  • Dental implants

Your dentist will help you choose the best option for your smile, bite, lifestyle, and budget.

Can I lower my risks?

older man smilingTypically, root infections are brought on by trauma (including past trauma) or bacteria penetrating the deep roots of your tooth.

If you sustain an injury to your tooth—even if you do not have long-term pain—mention it to your dentist. Additionally, be sure to visit your dentist regularly for exams and teeth cleanings. Teeth cleanings remove the tartar and bacteria that can cause infections and even tooth loss.

If you grind and clench your teeth, a condition known as bruxism, ask your dentist about a custom nightguard. This appliance gently prevents grinding and clenching while you sleep. Grinding and clenching can lead to enamel breakdown, allowing bacteria to penetrate your tooth’s root and pulp.

Also, don’t forget your mouthguard when you join that sporting team! A stray ball or poor swing can definitely lead to tooth trauma and the need for root canal therapy. 

At James S. Kim, DDS, it is our goal to keep your teeth healthy for life. We also want you to enjoy a comfortable and pain-free smile.

Contact Our Wausau, WI Office Today!

If you are in pain, please contact our dental office so we can determine the cause of your discomfort and create a plan for treatment.

If you need a root canal, we offer gentle treatment in our Wausau dental office.