Get Pain Relief with Root
Canals in Kelowna
Root Canal Therapy & Endodontic Treatment
While teeth are highly resilient, there are times when the nerve (pulp) of a tooth can become damaged or infected from things such as trauma, cavities, or cracks. Teeth with these conditions can be quite painful and can harm your quality of life. It is important in these cases that the nerve of the tooth be removed and the root canals cleaned and filled with inert material to prevent reinfection.
It is a common misconception that having a root canal treatment is a painful endeavour when, in fact, most people report little to no discomfort during the procedure. With the technologies available to us today, we can perform this treatment quickly and effectively, and once performed, these teeth can last for many years.
If you think that you might need a root canal, look for these common symptoms:
- Pain – usually severe, often throbbing or aching
- Pain that wakes you or keeps you up at night
- Pain that is not managed by medication
- Pain when biting on one side of your mouth
- Sensitivity to hot and cold water or drinks
- Swelling around the affected tooth
Addressing these symptoms early could save the tooth and prevent the need for more invasive treatments like dental implants.
What to Expect During a Root Canal
Understanding the steps of a root canal procedure can help ease your mind and prepare you for the appointment. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Numbing the Tooth
The affected tooth and surrounding area are numbed using a local anesthetic, ensuring you feel comfortable throughout the process.
2. Accessing the Pulp
We make a small opening in the tooth's crown to access the damaged or infected pulp.
3. Cleaning the Canals
Dr. Sanders carefully removes the infected tooth pulp and cleans the canals to get rid of bacteria, protect your oral health and prevent infections.
4. Filling the Canals
Once cleaned, the canals are filled with a biocompatible material to seal them and protect the tooth from further damage.
5. Restoring the Tooth
The natural tooth is usually covered with a dental crown to restore strength and function. This final step also ensures the tooth blends naturally with the rest of your smile.
The process is efficient and virtually painless, thanks to modern treatment techniques and advanced tools.