The mere mention of a "root canal" may fill some with anxiety.
Is that a concern you share? It's understandable, especially if you have been informed that you may require a root canal. Most of our patients, in fact, arrive at the consultation with the same concern.
The good news is that most people are surprised to learn that:
Most treatments for root canals are intended to minimize suffering rather than the opposite.
This honest guide will answer your questions about the root canal process, what you should expect, how to make a speedy recovery, what types of follow-up treatments (e.g., dental crowns, bridges) may be required, and provide you with straightforward information to increase your confidence and ease your concerns.
Why You Might Need a Root Canal Treatment
Root canals are never done without good reason. They are usually the last option remaining once the dental pulp of a tooth becomes infected and/or highly inflamed.Several circumstances can lead to this:
Severe decay in a tooth:
A tooth that is cracked or chipped
Multiple dental work done on the same tooth
Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
Trauma (even if there’s no visible crack)
When the pulp becomes infected, the pain can be intense. You might feel:
Ongoing pain in the tooth
Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
Swelling in the gums
Pain when chewing
Darkening of the tooth
If left untreated, the infection can spread. That’s when things get more serious — and more painful.
A root canal specialist (also known as an endodontist) is trained specifically to treat these internal tooth infections with precision and care.
Does Root Canal Therapy Hurt?
We understand that this is the most common concern.
Thanks to the development of modern dental technology and new anesthetic options, patients undergoing root canal therapy are often describe the process as being more or less like having a cavity filled.
Here’s what actually happens:
Local anesthesia is used to completely numb the affected area.
You won’t feel sharp pain during the procedure.
Most patients say the discomfort afterward is mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
In fact, pain most people associate with root canal therapy is in fact caused by the infection, not the therapy itself.
What Happens During a Root Canal Treatment? (Step-by-Step)
Having a better understanding of the process can help alleviate a lot of the anxiety a patient may be experiencing. Here is what you can expect:
1. Thorough Examination and X-rays
Your dentist or endodontist will obtain some digital X-ray images to evaluate the extent of the infection and analyze the tooth structure.
This information allows for a more precise diagnosis and treatment plan.
2. Numbing the Tooth
Local anesthesia is applied, and the area is completely numb, including the tooth and gums surrounding it.
You'll be privy to the entire procedure.
3. Cleaning the Infection
An access cavity is created in the coronal part of the tooth, and through it the dentist will:
Remove the pulp and infection
Clean and disinfect the root canal system
Special endodontic instruments are used to prepare the root canal system to receive an inert filling material.
4. Filling and Sealing
Once the canals are cleaned, they are filled with a material that is biocompatible and then sealed to prevent reinfection.
5. Restoration (Often with Dental Crowns and Bridges)
After root canal surgery, the tooth tends to be weaker than before. Many people will require a dental crown to restore the strength and function of that tooth.
This is what dental crowns and bridges are used for:
A crown will protect and add strength to the tooth that has been treated.
If there are teeth that are missing next to the treated tooth, a bridge will be advised.
How Long Does a Root Canal Procedure Take?
Typically:
One appointment (60–90 minutes) for straightforward cases
Two visits if the infection is severe
Based on your specific case, your dentist will be able to tell you what to expect.
What Is Recovery Like?
The next day most people typically return to normal daily activities.
You may experience:
Slight tenderness for a few days
Slight sensitivity when chewing
This is normal and temporary.
To speed up healing:
Avoid chewing on the treated side until fully restored.
Maintain excellent oral hygiene.
Attend follow-up appointments.
Once a crown is placed, your tooth can function just like any other natural tooth.
Why Choosing the Right Root Canal Specialist Matters
Experience matters — especially when dealing with infections inside a tooth.
A skilled root canal specialist uses:
Advanced imaging for precise diagnosis
Modern rotary instruments for efficient cleaning
High-quality sealing materials
Strict sterilization protocols
This reduces complications and improves long-term success rates.
In Canada, root canal success rates are high when performed by experienced professionals — often lasting decades with proper care.
Is There an Alternative to Root Canal Therapy?
Technically, yes — extraction.
But removing a tooth creates other challenges:
Shifting of surrounding teeth
Bone loss in the jaw
The need for implants or bridges
Higher long-term costs
Saving your natural tooth through root canal treatment is usually the healthiest and most cost-effective solution.
Dentists prioritize preservation whenever possible — because nothing functions better than your natural tooth.
Common Myths About Root Canal Treatment
Let’s clear up a few misconceptions:
Myth 1: Root canals cause illness.
There is no scientific evidence supporting this claim.
Myth 2: It’s better to pull the tooth.
Extraction often leads to more expensive and complex treatments later.
Myth 3: The pain lasts for weeks.
Most discomfort subsides within a few days.
When done properly, root canal therapy is safe, predictable, and highly successful.
How Much Does Root Canal Treatment Cost in Canada?
Costs vary depending on:
Tooth location (molars are more complex)
Severity of infection
Whether a crown is required
Most dental insurance plans cover a significant portion of root canal therapy. Your dental office can provide a detailed estimate and insurance breakdown before treatment begins.
Investing in saving your natural tooth usually prevents bigger, more expensive problems later.
When Should You Book an Appointment?
Don’t wait if you’re experiencing:
Severe tooth pain
Swelling
Persistent sensitivity
A pimple-like bump on the gums
Early treatment prevents complications and often makes the procedure easier and quicker.
If you’re unsure whether you need a root canal treatment, a consultation is the best first step.
Final Thoughts: There’s No Need to Fear a Root Canal
It’s completely normal to feel anxious. But modern dentistry has transformed what used to be a dreaded procedure into a comfortable, routine solution.
Root canal therapy isn’t something to fear — it’s something that relieves pain, protects your smile, and saves your natural tooth.
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or have been advised to see a root canal specialist, don’t put it off.
Book a consultation with D'Arcy Dental today and let a caring, experienced team guide you through the process with clarity and comfort. Your smile — and your peace of mind — are worth it.
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