expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Brett Evan Gilbert, D.D.S.

Endodontist

Dr. Brett Evan Gilbert D.D.S. is a top Endodontist in Niles, IL. With a passion for the field and an unwavering commitment to their specialty, Dr. Brett Evan Gilbert D.D.S. is an expert in changing the lives of their patients for the better. Through their designated cause and expertise in the field of Endodontics, Dr. Brett Evan Gilbert D.D.S. is a prime example of a true leader in healthcare. As a leader and expert in their field, Dr. Brett Evan Gilbert D.D.S. is passionate about enhancing patient quality of life. They embody the values of communication, safety, and trust when dealing directly with patients. In Niles, IL, Dr. Brett Evan Gilbert D.D.S. is a true asset to their field and dedicated to the profession of dentistry.
23 years Experience
Dr. Brett Evan Gilbert, D.D.S.
Specializes in:
  • General Dentistry
  • Niles, IL
  • University of Maryland
  • Accepting new patients

How long after a root canal can I eat?

You can eat after the local anesthetic wears off.

Brett E. Gilbert, D.D.S.

Should I get a second opinion about having a root canal?

If you are unsure or untrusting of the recommendation of your dentist, then a second opinion is always a good idea. However, I would advise you to seek this opinion from an endodontist, READ MORE
If you are unsure or untrusting of the recommendation of your dentist, then a second opinion is always a good idea. However, I would advise you to seek this opinion from an endodontist, a root canal specialist. You can do a google search to learn about one that is in your area.

Brett E. Gilbert, D.D.S.

How should I deal with the pain of a root canal?

Post-operative pain from root canal treatment can usually be controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers. Your dentist or endodontist should be able to properly recommend the READ MORE
Post-operative pain from root canal treatment can usually be controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers. Your dentist or endodontist should be able to properly recommend the proper regimen to help you after your procedure.

Brett E. Gilbert, D.D.S.

Do I need a root canal if there's no pain?

Yes, there are many indications for root canal treatment that have absolutely no pain.

Pain and bad taste in mouth. Why isn't it going away?

I would suggest returning to a dentist for a re-evaluation of this tooth. My recommendation would be to schedule a consultation with an endodontist (a root canal specialist) to READ MORE
I would suggest returning to a dentist for a re-evaluation of this tooth. My recommendation would be to schedule a consultation with an endodontist (a root canal specialist) to assure the best possible advice on the next steps to address your tooth.

Brett E. Gilbert, D.D.S.

How many visits does a root canal take?

The number of visits would depend on which tooth is being treated, its condition, and if a root canal specialist is doing it for you.

Can an x-ray show if you need a root canal?

In some cases, an X-ray is critical to diagnosing if a root canal is needed. In other cases, the X-ray is not as essential in making the diagnosis. I would suggest following up READ MORE
In some cases, an X-ray is critical to diagnosing if a root canal is needed. In other cases, the X-ray is not as essential in making the diagnosis. I would suggest following up with your dentist to get the images that are needed for them to make a diagnosis for your tooth which will determine the treatment options that are recommended.


Brett E. Gilbert, D.D.S.

Can a tooth hurt after a root canal?

It is normal to have discomfort to touch or bite for many days even more than a week or so after root canal treatment. If it persists longer, please return to your dentist to evaluate. READ MORE
It is normal to have discomfort to touch or bite for many days even more than a week or so after root canal treatment. If it persists longer, please return to your dentist to evaluate. Sometimes the bite on the tooth is too high and it creates more pressure than the tooth can tolerate. This can typically be resolved easily if this is the case.

Brett E. Gilbert, D.D.S.

How should I prepare for my root canal?

No preparation is needed!! Eating beforehand is a good idea b/c you will be numb after. And bring headphones if you want to relax with your own tunes! Brett E. Gilbert, D.D.S. READ MORE
No preparation is needed!! Eating beforehand is a good idea b/c you will be numb after. And bring headphones if you want to relax with your own tunes!

Brett E. Gilbert, D.D.S.

Why do I need a root canal?

The treatment planning that determines if you need a root canal goes beyond the presence of symptoms. Based on the clinical and radiographic exam, your dentist must feel that you READ MORE
The treatment planning that determines if you need a root canal goes beyond the presence of symptoms. Based on the clinical and radiographic exam, your dentist must feel that you have disease within the inside tissue (dental pulp) requiring that tissue to be removed which is what a root canal procedure does. Dentists do not recommend root canal treatment unless it is necessary so I would recommend proceeding with the treatment. If you question the recommendation then I always would suggest getting a second opinion from another dentist to see if the treatment plan is consistent with both dentists.

Brett E. Gilbert, D.D.S.

Does tooth pain mean I have a cavity?

You should absolutely be examined by your dentist! Tooth pain is certainly a strong warning sign that something is happening with your tooth. Unfortunately, decay or cavities are READ MORE
You should absolutely be examined by your dentist! Tooth pain is certainly a strong warning sign that something is happening with your tooth. Unfortunately, decay or cavities are not always visible to the eye and that is where X-rays can be taken to identify if there are any changes to your tooth.
Good luck and get in to your dentist right away as the symptoms can become much worse very quickly!

Brett E. Gilbert, D.D.S.

Does a root canal hurt?

Root canal treatment is comfortable! Local anesthetic is used and allows the procedure to be completed in comfort. However, if you feel anything during the procedure, just let READ MORE
Root canal treatment is comfortable! Local anesthetic is used and allows the procedure to be completed in comfort. However, if you feel anything during the procedure, just let your doctor know and they can supplement the anesthesia even after you are underway. Don't worry! It will all go smoothly and your tooth will return to health!

Brett E. Gilbert, D.D.S.

Will I experience any pain after the root canal?

After a root canal procedure, there can be tenderness to touch or bite on the tooth for several days to a week. This is typically mild and depends.

The tooth where I need a root canal isn't bothering me. Why do I need it?

It is very common to need root canal treatment even if you have absolutely no symptoms. Typically, an infected tooth will be asymptomatic, not hurting at all, but a big event of READ MORE
It is very common to need root canal treatment even if you have absolutely no symptoms. Typically, an infected tooth will be asymptomatic, not hurting at all, but a big event of swelling or pain can pop up at any time. Radiographs or X-rays often will give your dentist clear evidence of disease even if your tooth is not hurting. Go for it, get the root canal and save yourself much trouble later!

Brett E. Gilbert, D.D.S.

Is tooth sensitivity a sign of decay?

Tooth sensitivity, especially to temperatures, can have many possibilities as far as what is causing it. Tooth decay is definitely one of the potential causes. If these teeth are READ MORE
Tooth sensitivity, especially to temperatures, can have many possibilities as far as what is causing it. Tooth decay is definitely one of the potential causes. If these teeth are upper teeth, sinus pressure can also increase sensitivity. Recession of the gum tissue is another possible cause along with several other possible causes. The only way to determine the source of your sensitivity is to make an appointment with a dentist to evaluate the area. Please don't delay in doing this as you can minimize the damage and severity of the problem by addressing it at your dentist appointment ASAP.

Best wishes,

Brett E. Gilbert, D.D.S.

Does an anesthesia injection in the mouth cause pain?

Please don't worry about the injections used for dental treatment. Techniques today allow for comfortable anesthesia that will allow a comfortable procedure. Most dentists are READ MORE
Please don't worry about the injections used for dental treatment. Techniques today allow for comfortable anesthesia that will allow a comfortable procedure. Most dentists are highly trained in giving local anesthetic in the mouth. The thought of it is much worse than the reality! Good luck on your root canal procedure!

Brett E. Gilbert, D.D.S.

How to fix cracks in the teeth?

Small, visible cracks can be considered crazy lines and are more on the surface of the tooth. They don’t necessarily mean the entire tooth is cracked. Over time, they can become READ MORE
Small, visible cracks can be considered crazy lines and are more on the surface of the tooth. They don’t necessarily mean the entire tooth is cracked. Over time, they can become stained and could lead to a problem. If the cracks are deeper, a full coverage crown or veneer could be an option. Please consult with a dentist to evaluate your specific condition.

I let a cavity go way too far, and it's causing a lot of pain. What should I do?

You can try over-the-counter pain relievers unless your physician has informed you not to take them. Otherwise, try to get in to see your dentist sooner as an emergency. The fate READ MORE
You can try over-the-counter pain relievers unless your physician has informed you not to take them. Otherwise, try to get in to see your dentist sooner as an emergency. The fate of your tooth will depend on how severely it is decayed and if there is enough tooth structure to rebuild it. My advice is to inform the dentist that you are in pain and need to be seen as an emergency.

Good luck!

Brett E. Gilbert, D.D.S.

How successful is an apicoectomy?

Apicoectomy has a good prognosis. The reason is that at the end of a root of a tooth the anatomy is very complex with lots of little mini canals and hiding spaces for bacteria. READ MORE
Apicoectomy has a good prognosis. The reason is that at the end of a root of a tooth the anatomy is very complex with lots of little mini canals and hiding spaces for bacteria. If a root canal treatment and maybe even a re-root canal treatment (called retreatment) do not work an apicoectomy may be the answer to save your tooth. The simple description is that the tip of the root (with all of its complexities) is removed and a little filling is placed in the end of the root. This removes all of the bacteria in the hiding places that are not accessible from regular (non-surgical) root canal treatment allowing the tissues and bone around the remaining root structure to heal right up!

Can a tooth affected by cavities be saved?

Teeth that have cavities or decay can be saved if enough good tooth structure remains. The depth of the decay and the location of it would dictate the prognosis or prediction READ MORE
Teeth that have cavities or decay can be saved if enough good tooth structure remains. The depth of the decay and the location of it would dictate the prognosis or prediction of how it will fare over time. Many times, a root canal and crown are needed and with these treatments your tooth can be as good as new! This is judged on a case by case basis. If there is not enough good tooth structure left then extraction is a better option as the prognosis long term is not favorable.