We protect healthy smiles, overall health with painless, safe, and fast root canal treatment

Yes, at West Suburban Oral Health Care in Naperville, Illinois, we are skilled in oral health. However, our dentists, Drs. Susan Mazzei, Kelsey Esposito, and Ashley Nguyen, are also proficient in that critical interplay between the health of the mouth (oral cavity) and the rest of you (your “system” or “systemic health”). This vital connection is demonstrated with severe or deep infections that require root canal treatment.

Root canal therapy (RCT), explained

Root canal treatment is a type of endodontic therapy. Endodontic procedures refer to those therapies that treat the inside (“endo”) of the tooth (“odont”). Dental decay is a progressive condition. In its earliest stages, it erodes the tooth enamel and produces holes or pits (cavities). Later on, decay threatens the innermost pulp chamber or tissue. The pulp chamber houses nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. Due to the presence of nerves, the tooth may ache persistently and severely at this stage. Treatment to remove diseased tissue and disinfect the area resolves pain. It also prevents a range of oral health and systemic complications, including losing the tooth and potentially deadly systemic infections.

Remember: Infections of the oral cavity do not stay put. Without treatment, they can travel to other parts of the face, producing characteristic facial swelling. These infections can also travel to other organs and parts of the body via the bloodstream. So, contrary to what you may have heard, root canal therapy is:

  • Painless – In fact, it actually resolves pain produced by severe infections!
  • Safe – Prevents systemic infections and other complications that threaten your overall health.
  • Conservative – Preserves the best tooth: your natural one!
  • Affordable – Avoids the need for costly tooth replacement procedures.
  • Support lasting health – Nonsurgical treatment has a high rate of success. It prevents the risks associated with missing teeth, notably destructive bone loss that alters facial features and interferes with proper chewing, speech, and other functions.

RCT is also fast. The process itself can be completed in just one visit. After damaged tissue has been removed, the root canals that help hold the tooth in place are sterilized and reshaped. Then, the treated canals are sealed off with a specialized material. The final stage in the process is typically the addition of a dental crown, which restores the natural crown or white, visible part of the tooth. Many teeth are excellent candidates for RCT; however, those with challenging anatomical features or other complexities may be candidates for surgical endodontic procedures.

Don’t wait for potential problems to get worse. Contact our practice in Aurora, and we serve Wheaton, Warrenville, Glen Ellyn, North Aurora, and the surrounding area at 630-393-3045 to schedule your visit.

Dr. Susan Mazzei, West Suburban Oral Health Care
Dr. Kelsey Esposito, West Suburban Oral Health Care
Dr. Marco Fajardo, West Suburban Oral Health Care
Dr. Ashley Nguyen, West Suburban Oral Health Care

Dr. Susan Mazzei is a skilled dentist specializing in prosthodontics. A graduate of Northwestern University Dental School, she completed a Certification in Prosthodontics before joining the faculty of Northwestern University Dental School as a Clinical Assistant Professor, where she served for 12 years and became Assistant Professor Emeritus. Dr. Mazzei believes that excellent oral health begins with education and prevention and is committed to continuing her education. She is a Certified Functional Medicine Health Coach, a Charter Fellow in the American Academy of Oral Systemic Health (AAOSH), and has completed the Bale and Doneen Method Preceptorship Program.

Connect with Dr. Susan Mazzei on Linkedin


Dr. Kelsey Esposito worked in healthcare advertising and communications before realizing that her passions were dentistry and patient care. She holds a BA in Economics and Fine Art from Kalamazoo College, a Premedicine Post-Baccalaureate Certificate from Northwestern University, and a Doctor of Dental Medicine from The University of Illinois in Chicago. She is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA), Chicago Dental Society (CDS), Illinois Dental Society (IDS), Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and AAOSH.

Dr. Marco Fajardo is a graduate of Northwestern University Dental School, where he also served as a part-time Assistant Clinical Instructor. He was a member of the University Dental Associates of the University of Chicago too. In 1994, he formed the basis of West Suburban Oral Healthcare with Dr. Mazzei. He is now its Team Leader.

Dr. Ashley Nguyen studied at the University of Buffalo and Midwestern University in Downers Grove, IL (dental school). She is a member of the ADA, CDS, IDS, and other local organizations. She continues her education by attending dental conferences and seminars.