Your browser is not supported

Your browser is too old. To use this website, please use Chrome or Firefox.

What is a Root Canal Treatment?

A Root Canal Treatment (also known as Endodontic Therapy or simply a “Root Canal”) is a way to treat infected pulp of a tooth which can cause severe pain and discomfort. The Root Canal, or Pulp Chamber, is the inner section of the tooth where nerves and blood vessels are located, making it very sensitive once infected.

Treating an infection in the root canal requires:

  • Creating an opening in the crown of the tooth using a dental drill
  • Removing the infected pulp tissue with an endodontic file
  • Irrigating the canal with chemicals to kill microbes and dissolve any remaining tissue
  • Filling the now-empty canal with a natural filler material
  • Placing a crown over the tooth (if it is a molar or premolar)

How Do I Know I Need A Root Canal Treatment?

Not every instance of tooth pain means you have infected tissue in your root canal. These symptoms are a good indicator that you should see your dentist about a Root Canal Treatment:

  • Serious tooth pain when pressure is applied
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that doesn’t immediately go away
  • A small bump or ‘pimple’ near a painful tooth
  • A tooth changing to a noticeably darker colour

Are Root Canal Treatments Painful?

A common misconception is that Root Canal Treatments are extremely painful procedures. However, thanks to modern techniques, Root Canal Treatments are no more painful than your standard filling. Local anesthetic will ensure patients do not feel the treatment taking place. You may feel minor soreness after a root canal treatment, however this will dissipate in a few days.

The most painful part of a root canal is the infection itself! Removing the infected tissue from your canal will eliminate the pain you currently suffer from and improve your quality of life.

Still nervous about getting a root canal treatment? We offer calming nitrous oxide sedation that will make sure you remain happy and comfortable during the procedure.