Root canal treatment, often referred to as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure designed to treat infection at the centre of a tooth. This common procedure can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. Despite its reputation for being painful, modern techniques and anaesthesia have made root canals relatively comfortable and highly effective. Nairobi Sterling Dental Clinic now brings root canal treatment closer to you, at friendly and affordable costs.

What is a root canal?

A root canal is the part of a tooth that contains the pulp – a collection of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, or cracks, it can cause severe pain and lead to abscesses. Root canal treatment removes the damaged pulp, cleans and disinfects the canals, and then fills and seals them to prevent future infection.

Why is root canal treatment necessary?

Root canal treatment is necessary when the tooth’s pulp becomes infected or inflamed. This can happen due to several reasons such as deep decay and injury. Deep decay results from untreated cavities extending deeper into the tooth and reaching the pulp region. This causes inflammation and may also cause infection in the pulp. Additionally, injuries to teeth may result from physical trauma on the tooth reaching and damaging the pulp.

The trauma may result in cracks or chips on the tooth, which can cause damage to the pulp or expose it to infection. Repeated dental procedures on a single tooth can also cause trauma to the tooth and the pulp. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissues, causing pain, swelling, and more serious health issues.

Symptoms indicating the need for a root canal

Several symptoms may indicate the need for a root canal treatment:

• Severe toothache pain upon chewing or application of pressure
• Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
• Discoloration of the tooth
• Swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums
• A persistent or recurring pimple on the gums

These symptoms require prompt dental evaluation to determine the appropriate treatment.

The Root Canal Procedure: Step by Step

1. Consultation and examination – The process begins with a consultation with the dentist. He conducts a thorough examination, including X-rays, to assess the extent of infection and the shape of the root canals.
2. Anesthesia – The treatment can be painful and uncomfortable for the patient. To counter this, root canal is done under local anaesthesia. The local anaesthesia is administered to numb the affected area, ensuring the patient is comfortable throughout the procedure.
3. Access the opening – The dentist creates a small opening in the crown of the tooth to access the infected pulp. He uses tools that ensure safety for other nearby teeth and parts. High hygiene is also observed here to prevent further infection.
4. Cleaning and shaping – Using specialized instruments, the dentist removes the infected pulp, cleans the canals, and shapes them for filling. These instruments are also kept and used under high hygiene standards for safety.
5. Filling the canals – The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material, usually gutta-percha, and sealed with adhesive cement to prevent future infection.
6. Restoration – After the root canal is completed, the tooth is restored with a filling or crown to protect it and restore its function.

Post-Procedure Care and Recovery

After a root canal treatment, it’s normal to experience some tenderness in the treated area. Over-the-counter pain relievers can manage this discomfort. Patients should avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored. Moreover, maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups is crucial for long-term success.

Cost of root canal treatment

At Nairobi Sterling Dental Clinic, we ensure that we bring quality services to our patients, at affordable costs. We also ensure we do not compromise on our high standards of treatment or the quality of our services and products. We acknowledge just how important root canal treatment is, as it could save teeth from extraction or loss.

At our clinic, the cost of root canal treatment ranges from between Ksh.20,000 to Ksh.23,000 per tooth. This will guarantee you a comfortable process, and an effective treatment. A one-time consultation fee of Ksh.3,000 is also charged for the consultation with the dentist. The costs at the clinic are relatively cheaper as compared to other clinics in Nairobi. Furthermore, you are guaranteed quality treatment, under Dr Raj, a true professional with years of experience in the dental practice.

Our Take

Root canal treatment is a highly effective procedure that can save a tooth from extraction, relieve pain, and prevent further dental complications. Nairobi Sterling Dental Clinic offers the best and most affordable root canal treatment in Nairobi. Our dental expertise and modern equipment go a long way in ensuring we deliver on this mandate. Do you want to start your root canal treatment with us? Visit us at our Parklands clinic, at the Park Suites Building in Parklands. You can also contact us for enquiries or booking an appointment for your consultation and root canal treatment.