Root Canal Therapy

When Root Canal Therapy’s the Answer

While tooth fillings are the most common treatment for tooth decay and cavities, there are times when tooth-colored resin isn’t enough to address more extensive tooth decay. In such cases, root canal therapy is the more appropriate answer. The procedure is similar to a filling in that the purpose is to remove harmful bacteria and infected tissues/structure from within the tooth. Yet, in the case of root canal therapy (also known as endodontic treatment), your dentist will have to remove these tissues from deeper within your tooth, in the pulp chamber and root canal where the nerves and blood vessels rest.

How Endodontic Treatment Works

Endodontic means the inside of your tooth, and treatment becomes necessary when tooth decay infects more than just the main structure (dentin) of your tooth’s crown. This can occur if you hesitate to treat a cavity and the infection grows more severe, or if your tooth becomes fractured and the pulp chamber is exposed. To remove the threat, your dentist will carefully access the pulp and remove the nerves and blood vessels from the chamber. This not only alleviates the pain of your infected tooth, but also stops the infection from being able to spread beyond the root canal that extends into your jawbone.

Get the Facts About Root Canal Therapy

If decay reaches your tooth’s inner structures, then root canal therapy may still be able to save the tooth from being lost. To schedule a visit with Dr. Browne, contact our office today at (913) 901-8585. Our office is located on the south west corner of 75th and State Line at the Crossroads of Prairie Village, Waldo, Brookside, Mission Hills , Leawood and Overland Park, just minutes from I-435 and State Line as well as I-35 and 75th Street.