What Is a Root Canal?
Inside every tooth is soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay, cracks, trauma, or other damage, root canal treatment may be needed. During treatment, the affected tissue is carefully removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected, and the canals are sealed to help prevent further infection.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Symptoms can vary, but common signs include persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, pain when biting or chewing, swelling or tenderness around the tooth, or a tooth that has become darker in colour. In some cases, an infection may be present without noticeable symptoms, which is why regular dental exams are important.
What to Expect During a Root Canal
Root canal treatment is designed to relieve discomfort and preserve your natural tooth. We’ll begin by examining the tooth and taking any necessary X-rays to understand the extent of the infection or damage. The area is carefully numbed before the infected or inflamed tissue is removed from inside the tooth.
The canals are then cleaned, disinfected and sealed to help prevent future infection. Depending on the tooth, a filling or dental crown may be recommended afterward to restore strength and function.
