Root Canals

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More About Root Canals

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Root canal therapies are planned to extract tooth decay that has advanced to the soft inner tissue (pulp). There is a mistaken belief that root canal therapy is painful. On the contrary, it eliminates discomfort. Root canal treatments involve cleaning out the infected tissues, preserving the healthy exterior, and eliminating the necessity for tooth extraction.
At Wedgewood Dental, we take every measure to make this procedure as comfortable and effective as possible, relieving your pain and reinstating the health of your smile.

How Does Root Canal Infection Occur?

The dental pulp comprises the connective tissues and nerves responsible for nourishment and sensations of the teeth. Although the pulp is covered in protective layers of enamel and dentin, it could get infected when harmful bacteria reach the root canal. This might happen when you develop cavities and do not get them treated in time or when your tooth gets broken or cracked.

When Do You Need a Root Canal?

Some indicators of dental infection requiring a root canal include:
  • Severe toothache
  • Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
  • Discoloration of a tooth
  • Gum swelling and tenderness
  • Blisters or other lesions on the gums
  • Pus and blood oozing from the gums 
  • Pain and swelling
  • The infected tooth becoming loose from the jawbone

Process for Root Canal Therapy

After a thorough examination and taking X-rays, our dentists will numb the area around the tooth to make you as comfortable as possible. A rubber dam will also be positioned to keep the site isolated during treatment. A small hole is created through the top of the crown to gain access to the inner tooth. We will remove infected tissue and pulp using specialized dental tools and shape the inner tooth. This shaping is carried out to create space for the replacement material, namely, gutta-percha, a rubber-like material designed to seal the tooth and lessen the chances of future infections.
Once filled, you can either have a filling placed to seal the tooth the same day or have a provisional crown placed while a permanent crown is fabricated. Once you have received all permanent restorations, your tooth will be restored and ready for use once again.
Aftercare needed for root canals should be no more than a week. You should get plenty of rest during this time, stick to a soft diet, and practice your regular at-home oral hygiene.

We strive to...

Proudly serve the great people of our community
Get to know you and your family on a personal level
Let you know what to expect during treatment
Go above and beyond to make you feel relaxed and safe

Insurance & Billing

Our friendly team will help you complete insurance paperwork in advance for a better, faster, experience. We are in network with the following insurance providers: 

Why Choose Our Practice

Comprehensive Services for All Ages

At Wedgewood Dental, we understand that dental needs vary at different stages of life. With services ranging from routine cleanings and preventive care to advanced procedures like dental implants and orthodontics, Wedgewood Dental ensures that your entire family receives personalized, top-quality dental care in a warm and welcoming environment.

Cutting-Edge Tech & Modern Comfort

Wedgewood Dental is committed to offering the latest in dental technology to enhance patient care and comfort. Utilizing state-of-the-art equipment such as CEREC for same-day crowns, digital X-rays, and intraoral cameras, Dr. Westmoreland ensures precise and efficient treatments with minimal discomfort.

Community Commitment

Beyond the office, the team at Wedgewood Dental actively supports local initiatives and contributes to the well-being of the Rolla and Salem communities. This commitment to both outstanding dental care and community involvement makes Wedgewood Dental a trusted choice for your family's oral health.

Our Satisfied Patients

We love hearing from our patients! Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to provide us with feedback. It means the world to us!

I loved my experience with Wedgewood Dental. I felt that my needs and thoughts were taken into consideration when making a plan for treatment. The staff were courteous and kind.
Lori S.Review on Google
Can’t say enough good things about this practice. Dr. Westmoreland is patient and gives an honest evaluation. She has always been willing to work within my budget to get the best results for me.
Janet F.Review on Google
I have been scared of dentists for probably most of my life. My experiences with Dr Linda and her staff made my past fears disappear totally and I am so grateful for their professionalism and kindness.
Susan A.Review on Google
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