Root canal therapy is a common and effective dental procedure used to save a tooth that has become infected or damaged. By treating the inside of the tooth, root canal therapy can relieve pain, eliminate infection, and help prevent the need for extraction or tooth replacement.

What Is a Root Canal?

At the centre of each tooth is a soft tissue called pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. Infection of the pulp can occur due to deep decay, cracks or chips, trauma, or repeated dental procedures.

Symptoms that may indicate the need for root canal therapy include:

• Sensitivity to hot or cold

• Persistent tooth pain

• Swelling or tenderness of the gums

• Pain when biting or chewing

In some cases, an infected tooth may not cause noticeable symptoms, which is why routine dental exams are important.

How Root Canal Therapy Works

If root canal treatment is recommended, the infected pulp is carefully removed. The inside of the tooth is then cleaned, disinfected, and sealed to prevent further infection.

Root canal therapy is typically performed with local anesthesia and may be completed in one or more visits, depending on the tooth and complexity of the case. Modern techniques make the procedure comfortable and highly successful.

After Treatment

Most patients experience minimal discomfort following treatment and can return to normal activities shortly after. To restore strength and protect the treated tooth, a crown is often recommended after root canal therapy.

Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental visits helps ensure long-term success.

Success and Cost Considerations

Root canal therapy has a high success rate and is often more cost-effective than extracting a tooth and replacing it with an implant or bridge. The cost of treatment can vary depending on the tooth involved and the extent of infection, which will be discussed during your consultation.

Need Relief From Tooth Pain?

If you are experiencing tooth pain or have been advised that you may need a root canal, our team is here to help.Contact Peace Valley Dental to schedule an assessment and discuss your treatment options.