Root Canal Therapy
Kalispell, Montana and the greater Flathead Valley community
Did you know that over 14 million root canal treatments are performed in the US each year? Despite its reputation, the endodontic procedure helps relieve pain rather than causing it and allows you to keep your natural teeth. At Ivey Dental, we use the latest advancements in technology and anesthetics to ensure your treatment is as comfortable and effective as possible. Visit our Kalispell practice to learn more about restoring the health and function of your smile.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Inside every tooth is an area called the pulp chamber, which contains the tooth's nerves, connective tissues, and blood vessels. Deep decay, trauma, tooth fracture, or damaged restorations can result in tooth pulp damage or infection, which, left untreated, can lead to complications. These may include severe pain or even an abscess, which can result in bone loss around the tooth's root. The infection may also spread into the bloodstream, causing severe health complications.
Root canal therapy is a relatively comfortable endodontic treatment designed to treat tooth pulp damage. If, however, a tooth is beyond repair, we may recommend extracting it and replacing it with a dental implant to restore your smile's health and function. At Ivey Dental, we strive to ensure you are comfortable throughout any treatment.
What Are Warning Signs You Need a Root Canal Treatment?
Signs you need a root canal treatment may include the following:
- Tooth pain that won't go away
- Pain when you place pressure on the tooth
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Persistent bad breath
- Swelling or a pimple on the gums
- A discolored tooth
- A tooth chip or crack
- A tooth that feels loose
What Are the Benefits of Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy provides numerous benefits, including the following:
- Relieves Pain: Root canal therapy removes the damaged tooth pulp, providing most patients with significant pain relief rather than causing pain.
- Preserves Natural Teeth: Root canal therapy helps save a damaged or infected tooth that would otherwise have to be removed and replaced with a dental bridge or implant.
- Prevents the Spread of Infection: Removing the source of infection can help prevent it from spreading to other teeth or your jawbone or entering your bloodstream and causing health complications.
- Improved Oral Health: Eliminating the infection helps enhance your smile's health and function.
- Predictable: Root canal therapy offers an incredibly high success rate. With daily brushing, flossing, and regular visits to your dentist, your root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime.
What Is the Root Canal Procedure?
We will start by administering a local anesthetic to numb the area. We are also happy to provide you with IV sedation, if needed, to help you relax during treatment. Once you are comfortable, we will create a tiny opening in the tooth to remove the damaged and infected pulp, clean out your root canals, and place a biocompatible, rubbery material called gutta-percha to prevent further reinfection. The last step is sealing the space with a filling.
After your root canal procedure, your tooth will be more prone to fracture, which is why you will require a dental crown for protection. Your restored tooth will look and function like your natural teeth.
Root Canal Therapy Near Me in Kalispell, MT
If you have a damaged or painful tooth, contact Ivey Dental to schedule a consultation. We may recommend a root canal treatment to provide you with prompt relief and restore your smile's health and function. Our dedicated dentist and patient-centered team will ensure you are comfortable and relaxed while providing you with the highest quality care.
Call (406) 309-6020 or visit us online to schedule your appointment today!
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Ready to take your smile to the next level? At Ivey Dental, we strive to empower patients in Kalispell, MT, and the greater Flathead Valley communities by offering state-of-the-art smile solutions in a safe and caring environment. We invite you to schedule your appointment today!