Root Canal in Saint Joseph MO

What is a root canal?

A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures performed, well over 14 million every year. This simple treatment can save your natural teeth and prevent the need of dental implants or bridges.

At the center of your tooth is pulp. Pulp is a collection of blood vessels that helps to build the surrounding tooth. Infection of the pulp can be caused by trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks and chips, or repeated dental procedures. Symptoms of the infection can be identified as visible injury or swelling of the tooth, sensitivity to temperature or pain in the tooth and gums.

If you experience any of these symptoms, your dentist will most likely recommend non-surgical treatment to eliminate the diseased pulp. This injured pulp is removed and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed.

Root canal therapy usually involves local anesthesia and may be completed in one or more visits depending on the treatment required. Success for this type of treatment occurs in about 90% of cases. If your tooth is not amenable to endodontic treatment or the chance of success is unfavorable, you will be informed at the time of consultation or when a complication becomes evident during or after treatment.

Dr. Walker uses local anesthesia to eliminate discomfort. You will be able to drive home after your treatment, and you probably will be comfortable returning to your normal routine.

An example of a healthy tooth
Healthy Tooth
A tooth anatomy diagram highlighting pulp dentin and canal
Tooth Anatomy
A visual of tooth inflammation showing tooth decay and an inflamed pulp
Inflammation
A representation of a tooth with its canals cleaned
Cleaned Canals
An illustration of root canal filling of a tooth
Filling Placed
An example of a tooth healed by root canal therapy
Healed Tooth

Learn More About Root Canal Therapy

How Safe is a Root Canal Procedure?

Debunking Common Root Canal Myths

What is Root Resorption?

Root Canal Therapy Can Be Comfortable and Simple

We know endodontic treatment has a bad reputation, but Dr. Walker is here to challenge that idea. At Northwest Endodontics, we care about creating a great experience that'll solve your dental issues. To schedule an appointment with us, give our office a call at Northwest Endodontics Phone Number 816-364-4422 or use our online contact request form.

Endodontic Presentation

To provide you with a better understanding of endodontic therapy, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to root canals are discussed.

Endodontic Presentation

What happens after treatment?

When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist. You should contact their office for a follow-up restoration within a few weeks of completion at our office. Your restorative dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, however, we are available at all times to respond. To prevent further decay, continue to practice good dental hygiene.

How much will a root canal cost?

The cost associated with root canals can vary depending on factors such as the severity of damage to the affected tooth and which tooth is affected. In general, endodontic treatment is much less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth.

Northwest Endodontics

5 out of 5 stars based on 86 Root Canal reviews.

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Great staff, got me right in with my fractured tooth.

- Jamie R

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I went in for a root canal, a first, and I was really nervous/anxious. The atmosphere was welcoming, and the staff were especially kind. Dr. Walker was very friendly, very personable. Once he started, he asked me often if I was in pain. The procedure lasted about 20 minutes, and it was 100% pain free. I would highly recommend Dr. Walker and his team!

- Val W

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I appreciate that you were able to work me into your schedule so quickly! The root canal went so smoothly with little to no pain, I would highly recommend this clinic to anyone!

- Tim P

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Fast friendly no pain.

- Sara rothermich

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I fell asleep during my root canal. I never would have thought that was even remotely possible to do during a root canal. I never felt a thing! Perfect experience.

- Michael B

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

After having been a General Dentist for 38 years, I thought I had seen everything Dentistry had to offer. Recently, I experienced a painless, quick, and caring molar root canal by Dr. Walker. This office is simply THE BEST! Organized, efficient,and very low key.

- Tom R

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

For having a root canal procedure the process was painless. Dr. Walker is the only one I would let perform a root canal on me!

- Marcia K

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I have had lots of dental work and dread going to the dentist because it is always painful. I will say, other than shots which are always horrible as far as I'm concerned, the root canal procedure was basically painless and quicker than any other root canals I've had in the past. Other than a little soreness after the root canal, which is to be expected, I have not had any problems.

- Lori M

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Very, very friendly staff and Dr Walker too.

- Carolyn T

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Dr. Walker was very gentle, easing my anxiousness (who likes a root canal?). The procedure was quick and painless. I really appreciate their courtesy and kindness.

- Randi S

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Dr. Walker did amazing, he was very friendly and helped me ease my fear of the dentist. I felt nothing at all, so I am very happy with the service. Everyone here was very nice and helpful!

- kayla w

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I would recommend this dentist to anyone who can make it, who is in need of help. The most relaxing and painless dental experience I have ever had!

- Jadon W

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I am a nervous wreck with ALL things dental, and was shaking so bad when I entered the office. I was also in so much pain. The staff and Dr. Walker calmed me down and talked me through all options and procedures. It was over before I knew it, and painless. It was a great experience.

- Kelli H

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

whole staff made me feel real comfortable, whole process was amazing, thank you

- Roger H

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

very good

- david l

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

very friendly professional staff

- Tracy k

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Brian Damewood was in excruciating pain they were able to get him in the same day and took care of him and he came home pain free, not even any need for tylenol or ibuprofen... the staff are so friendly and knowledgeable and Ryan Walker does wonders!! Thanks so much!!!

- Brian D

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Pain free

- Ray P

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Good

- Ronnie K

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Pain well controlled, answered my questions and very kind, gentle. Thank you so much!

- Connie O

5 out of 5 stars on