Root Canal Therapy

Comprehensive Care for Every Smile

Root Canal Therapy

Our Root Canal Therapy Options

Relief from tooth pain with gentle, modern endodontic care.

When decay or infection reaches the inner pulp of a tooth, the pain can be severe -and ignoring it can threaten the tooth\'s survival. At Glendale Dental Wellness, Dr. Ivan Chan provides gentle, precise root canal therapy designed to save your natural tooth, stop infection, and restore function. Thanks to advanced technology and anesthesia, the procedure is far more comfortable than many patients expect.

What Is Root Canal Therapy?

A root canal is a restorative treatment that removes infected or damaged pulp tissue from inside a tooth. After carefully cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, the space is filled and sealed to prevent reinfection. The tooth is then reinforced with a crown, restoring strength and appearance.

According to the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), root canals are highly effective, with a success rate of over 95%. This means that when performed by an experienced dentist like Dr. Chan, a root canal can save your tooth and eliminate pain with minimal risk of failure.

The procedure is a far cry from the myths and misconceptions many people have heard. With proper anesthesia and modern techniques, a root canal is no more uncomfortable than having a filling placed.

Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?

Several signs indicate that you may need a root canal:

Not all toothaches require root canal therapy. Sometimes sensitivity or pain can be caused by other issues such as a cracked tooth, gum disease, or a sinus problem. Dr. Chan will perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of your pain and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

• Severe toothache pain upon chewing or application of pressure
• Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, even after the stimulus has been removed
• Discoloration or darkening of the tooth
• Swelling and tenderness in nearby gums
• A small pimple-like bump on the gums near the affected tooth

Why Save Your Natural Tooth?

Whenever possible, saving your natural tooth is the best option. Natural teeth are stronger than replacements and allow for better chewing function. Preserving your natural tooth structure also:

Root canal therapy allows Dr. Chan to save your tooth and restore you to full oral health.

• Prevents bone loss in the jaw
• Maintains proper bite alignment
• Avoids the need for more invasive procedures like extraction and implant placement
• Preserves your natural smile and facial structure
• Costs less than tooth replacement options

The Root Canal Therapy Process

Root canal therapy typically requires one or two appointments, depending on the complexity of your case.

The entire process is performed with precision and care to maximize the success of the treatment.

• Initial Examination – Dr. Chan will examine the tooth and take X-rays to assess the extent of infection or damage.
• Anesthesia – Local anesthesia is applied to numb the tooth and surrounding area, ensuring your comfort throughout the procedure.
• Isolation – A rubber dam is placed around the tooth to keep it dry and prevent bacteria from the mouth from interfering with treatment.
• Pulp Removal – Dr. Chan carefully opens the tooth and removes the infected or damaged pulp tissue.
• Cleaning and Shaping – The root canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected to remove all infection.
• Filling and Sealing – Once the canals are thoroughly cleaned, they\'re filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, which seals the tooth to prevent reinfection.
• Restoration – A crown or other restoration is placed on the tooth to protect it and restore full function.

Advanced Technology for Root Canal Therapy

Dr. Chan uses advanced diagnostic and treatment technology to provide superior results:

These technologies make the procedure faster, more comfortable, and more successful.

• Digital Imaging – High-resolution X-rays provide detailed images of the tooth\'s internal structure, allowing for precise treatment planning.
• Rotary Instruments – Advanced rotary tools clean and shape the root canals more efficiently and effectively than traditional hand instruments.
• Apex Locators – Electronic devices accurately measure the length of the root canals to ensure complete cleaning and filling.

Life After Root Canal Therapy

Most patients can return to normal activities immediately after root canal therapy. However, it\'s important to:

Once the tooth is properly restored, it should function normally and can last many years with proper care.

• Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the permanent restoration is placed
• Take over-the-counter pain medication if you experience mild discomfort (which should subside within a few days)
• Attend your follow-up appointment to have the tooth restored with a crown
• Practice good oral hygiene to prevent future problems

Success Rate and Prognosis

Root canal therapy has a very high success rate. According to dental research, root canals are successful about 95% of the time. The outcome depends on several factors:

Dr. Chan\'s experience and use of advanced technology maximize the likelihood of a successful outcome.

• The extent of the original infection or damage
• Whether the tooth is properly restored after treatment
• Your commitment to good oral hygiene

Cost of Root Canal Therapy

The cost of root canal therapy varies depending on which tooth is affected and the complexity of the case. However, the cost is typically less than extracting the tooth and replacing it with an implant or bridge. We offer flexible financing options to make this important treatment more accessible.

Consider the cost as an investment in your natural tooth and your long-term oral health.

Schedule Your Root Canal Consultation

If you\'re experiencing severe tooth pain, don\'t wait. Contact Glendale Dental Wellness today to schedule your evaluation with Dr. Ivan Chan. Root canal therapy can relieve your pain and save your natural tooth.