Root Canal Therapy in Kelowna, BC
Root Canal Therapy Near You
Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic therapy, is a highly effective treatment for saving a damaged tooth and alleviating severe tooth pain due to an inflamed or necrotic dental pulp. While this procedure is often feared, advancements in modern dentistry can make the procedure no more uncomfortable than receiving a standard filling.
Why Might You Need a Root Canal?
The pulp is the soft tissue at the center of each tooth, containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. When it becomes infected or inflamed, root canal therapy is necessary to remove the damaged tissue and preserve the tooth.
Several factors can lead to pulp damage including:
- Deep cavities or decay
- Large fillings
- Cracks or fractures in the tooth
- Trauma or repeated dental procedures
- Chronic teeth grinding
If left untreated, an infected tooth can cause severe pain, swelling in the face or neck, destruction of the surrounding bone, and/or an abscess. In some cases, the infection may remain painless for some time but can still lead to serious complications.
What to Expect During Root Canal Therapy
At Mission Park Dental, we prioritize your comfort throughout every step of the procedure. Here’s what you can expect:
- Examination: Your dentist will assess your symptoms, examine the affected tooth, and determine if root canal therapy is the best course of action.
- Local Anesthesia: To ensure a comfortable experience, we will numb the area around the affected tooth with local anesthesia.
- Accessing the Pulp: A small opening is created in the top of the tooth to access the infected pulp.
- Removing the Infected Tissue: The unhealthy pulp is completely removed and the inner pulp chamber is cleaned thoroughly to eliminate bacteria and prevent reinfection.
- Filling the Root Canals: The pulp chamber is reshaped and filled with gutta-percha, a biocompatible material that helps seal the root canals.
- Permanent Restoration: A permanent filling or crown will be placed to seal the root canals and protect the tooth.
Preserving Your Treated Tooth
While root canal therapy successfully removes infection and saves your natural tooth, the removal of the pulp and blood supply can cause the tooth to become brittle over time making it more susceptible to fractures. To reinforce and protect it, a dental crown is often recommended as the final step of the treatment.
Ready to Get Started? Call Today
If you are experiencing dental pain or suspect you need root canal therapy, don’t wait until the problem worsens. Mission Park Dental is here to provide compassionate, effective care to restore your oral health. Call us today to book your appointment. Our team looks forward to helping you achieve a healthy smile.
