
Dr. Brett Evan Gilbert D.D.S.
Endodontist | Endodontics
6769 N Milwaukee Ave Niles IL, 60714About
Dr. Brett E. Gilbert graduated from the University of Maryland Dental School in 2001 and completed his postgraduate training in Endodontics from the University of Maryland Dental School in 2003. He is currently a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Endodontics at the University of Illinois-Chicago, College of Dentistry and on staff at Presence Resurrection Medical Center in Chicago. He is a past-president of the Illinois Association of Endodontists. Dr. Gilbert is board certified, a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics. He was named a top ten young dental educator in America by the Seattle Study Club in 2017. In 2019 he was named to Academic Keys Who’s Who in Dentistry Higher Education (WWDHE). In 2019, he founded an endodontic specialty program at the Chicago Dental Society Foundation Clinic to provide free endodontic services to those in need. Dr. Gilbert lectures nationally and internationally on clinical endodontics. Dr. Gilbert has a full-time private practice limited to Endodontics in Niles, Illinois.
Education and Training
University of Maryland DDS 2001
University of Maryland Certificate in Endodontics 2003
Board Certification
American Board of Endodontics
Provider Details

Dr. Brett Evan Gilbert D.D.S.'s Expert Contributions
Endodontic Engagement: The GP and Endodontist Can Achieve More As a Team
Endodontic Engagement: The GP and Endodontist Can Achieve More As a Team Brett E. Gilbert, D.D.S.Diplomate, American Board of EndodonticsThe Pulse:To truly feel the current pulse in dentistry, you must listen to what other dentists are thinking and saying. Online message boards are a great place to...
How long after a root canal can I eat?
You can eat after the local anesthetic wears off. Brett E. Gilbert, D.D.S. READ MORE
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, 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. READ MORE
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 proper regimen to help you after your procedure. Brett E. Gilbert, D.D.S. READ MORE
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. READ MORE
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 assure the best possible advice on the next steps to address your tooth. Brett E. Gilbert, D.D.S. READ MORE
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. READ MORE
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 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. READ MORE
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. 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. READ MORE
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
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 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. READ MORE
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 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. READ MORE
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 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. READ MORE
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. READ MORE
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 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. READ MORE
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 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. READ MORE
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 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. READ MORE
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 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. READ MORE
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 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. READ MORE
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. 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! READ MORE
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 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. READ MORE
Faculty Titles & Positions
- Assistant Clinical Professor University of Illinois Chicago 2004 - Present
Awards
- Top 10 Young Dental Educator 2017 Seattle Study Club
Professional Memberships
- American Association of Endodontists
- Illinois State Dental Society
- College of Diplomates of the American Board of Endodontists
- American Dental Association
- Illinois Association of Endodontists
Charities and Philanthropic Endeavors
- Chicago Dental Society Foundation Clinic
- AAE Foundation for Endodontics
Dr. Brett Evan Gilbert D.D.S.'s Practice location
King Endodontics, LLC
6769 N Milwaukee Ave -Niles, IL 60714Get Direction
Dr. Brett Evan Gilbert D.D.S.'s reviews
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