Root Canal Therapy

You can rely on our experienced staff trained in endodontic therapy to alleviate your tooth pain due to inflamed or infected tooth pulp. Endodontic treatment, generally known as a root canal, is one of the most common dental procedures — nearly 16 million root canals are performed nationally each year. By incorporating advanced technologies and the latest anesthetics, Dr. Kinney can perform root canal therapy and root canal surgery that is nearly pain free.

The idea behind having root canal treatment is that it removes bacteria and tissue irritants that are present inside the tooth, especially those in the locations where your body would have the most trouble combating them. As an end result, once endodontic treatment has been completed it provides your body with an environment where its mechanisms are able to clear away any residual bacteria and tissue irritants that may still be present, thus allowing complete healing to occur.

For the greatest outcome, Dr. Kinney practices tested laser-assisted endodontic techniques. Because the laser is able to penetrate all the small crevices better than traditional instruments, we are able to more thoroughly clean the inside of the tooth, reducing the risk of re-infection. The minimally invasive nature of the laser preserves more tooth structure than traditional instrument techniques which can weaken the tooth leading to breakage. Not to mention that the laser cuts down on filing and soaking time for chemical agents. This means less time in the chair for you – who doesn’t like that?

Once the canals of the tooth have been cleansed, the second half of root canal treatment involves filling in and sealing up the interior of the tooth. This aspect of the treatment is an attempt to minimize the possibility that bacteria will be able to re-colonize inside the tooth or that tissue fluids can seep inside, become stagnant, and subsequently break down. On occasion, due to severe necrosis or when too much infection is present Dr. Kinney will place a powerful medication to help fight the bacteria entrenched in your tooth instead of the sealer. If the medication is placed, you will need to come back for a second visit to place the sealing material.

If you are interested in finding out more about the many advantages of laser-assisted endodontics, please make an appointment or contact our office today.