What is a Root Canal?

A root canal treats the pulp—the soft tissue of nerves and blood vessels inside your tooth—when it becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay, cracks, trauma, or repeated dental work. Treatment removes the infected tissue, disinfects the canal space, and seals it to prevent reinfection, preserving your natural tooth structure.

Common Signs You Might Need One

• Lingering pain to hot/cold or biting pressure
• Spontaneous, throbbing toothache (especially at night)
• Gum swelling or a “pimple” on the gum (draining abscess)
• Darkening/discolouration of a tooth after injury
• Deep cavity or fracture visible on x-ray

Benefits of Saving Your Tooth

• Pain relief and infection control
• Keeps your own tooth for natural chewing and alignment
• Prevents shifting and extra dental work from missing teeth
• Often more cost-effective than extraction plus replacement

What to Expect: Root Canal Step-by-Step

Diagnosis & Comfort
We examine the tooth, take digital x-rays, perform simple vitality tests, and numb the area for a comfortable visit.

Access & Cleaning
A small opening lets us remove inflamed/infected pulp. We shape and disinfect the canals thoroughly.

Sealing
The canals are filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to block bacteria.

Build-up & Protection
Many back teeth need a crown after a root canal to restore strength and prevent cracks. We’ll discuss timing and options.

Follow-up
We confirm healing and function, then schedule the final restoration (filling or crown).

Alternatives to a Root Canal

Extraction (removal of the tooth), followed by:

• Dental implant and crown
• Fixed bridge using neighbouring teeth
• Removable partial denture

We’re happy to compare timeline, cost, maintenance, and long-term health so you can choose confidently.

Costs, Insurance & Payment Options

You’ll receive a transparent estimate before treatment. Many dental plans cover a portion of endodontic therapy and the final restoration. We can:

• Verify benefits and submit claims
• Provide phased plans (e.g., root canal now, crown next visit)
• Offer payment options for multi-tooth care

Caring for Your Tooth After Treatment

• Expect light tenderness for a day or two—avoid chewing hard foods on that side.
• If you have a temporary filling, chew gently until the final restoration.
• Brush and floss normally; keep follow-up and crown appointments to prevent cracks.
• Call us if you notice swelling, worsening pain, or a lost temporary.