Root Canal Treatment
The words "root canal" make many people nervous, but the treatment itself is designed to end your pain, not cause it. Root canal therapy removes infection from inside a tooth so you can keep your natural tooth instead of losing it. At Edgemont Dental in Southwest Edmonton, we explain each step, keep you comfortable and work to get you out of pain.
What Is a Root Canal?
Inside every tooth is a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When deep decay, a crack or an injury lets bacteria reach the pulp, it can become infected and inflamed. Root canal treatment removes the infected pulp, cleans the inside of the tooth and seals it, so the tooth can stay in your mouth and function normally.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
- Severe tooth pain, especially when biting or chewing
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold after the source is removed
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the tooth
- A pimple-like bump on the gum
- A tooth that looks darker than its neighbours
- A deep cavity or a cracked tooth
Sometimes there are no symptoms at all, and an infection is found on an x-ray. That is another reason regular checkups matter.
What Happens During Root Canal Treatment
1. Diagnosis
Your dentist examines the tooth and takes digital x-rays to confirm the infection and to understand the shape of the root canals.
2. Numbing
The tooth and surrounding area are numbed, and treatment begins only once you are fully numb.
3. Cleaning the tooth
Your dentist makes a small opening in the crown of the tooth, removes the infected pulp and carefully cleans, shapes and rinses the inside of the root canals.
4. Sealing the tooth
The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material and sealed, and the opening is closed with a filling or a temporary restoration.
5. Protecting the tooth
A tooth that has had a root canal is usually restored with a crown at a follow-up visit, because the tooth can become more brittle without its pulp. Front teeth with little damage may need only a filling. We offer same-day CEREC crowns when suitable, and we will explain your options.
Appointment Length and Cost
Appointments are typically around an hour to an hour and a half, and a molar with several roots may need more than one visit. The cost depends on the tooth being treated. You receive a full estimate before treatment begins, and we direct bill most major insurance providers.
Is a Root Canal Painful?
The infection is what causes pain, and treatment is meant to relieve it. With local anaesthetic, most patients find the procedure similar to having a filling. If you are anxious, we offer nitrous oxide and oral sedation.
Before Your Visit
- If you are in pain, call (780) 761-7070 so we can arrange a prompt visit. We keep time open for urgent cases.
- Tell us about your medications, allergies and health history.
- Eat beforehand, as you will be numb for a few hours afterward, unless we ask you to fast for sedation.
- Mention any anxiety so we can offer nitrous oxide or oral sedation.
After Your Treatment
- Your tooth may be tender for a few days, and your dentist will advise on managing discomfort.
- Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it is fully restored, and wait until the numbness wears off before eating.
- Brush and floss as usual.
- Return for your final crown or filling as planned, to protect the tooth.
- Call us if you have severe pain, swelling or anything that does not seem right.
Root Canal or Extraction?
Saving your natural tooth is usually the best option when it is possible. Your dentist will tell you honestly if a tooth cannot be saved, and discuss replacement options such as an implant or a bridge.
Why Choose Edgemont Dental
- Digital x-rays for accurate diagnosis
- Same-day CEREC crowns when suitable, to restore the tooth
- A clear explanation and cost estimate before treatment begins
- Direct billing to most major insurance providers
- Same-day slots kept open for urgent cases
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a root canal take?
It depends on the tooth and the extent of the infection. A single-rooted tooth often takes around an hour to an hour and a half, while a molar may need two visits. Your dentist will give you an estimate when you come in.
Will I need a crown after a root canal?
Often, yes. A crown protects a tooth that has had a root canal. Your dentist will advise on what your tooth needs.
Can a root canal be done in one visit?
Some can, and some need more than one visit, depending on the tooth and the infection.
What happens if I do not treat an infected tooth?
Infection can spread, causing swelling and more pain, and the tooth may be lost. Getting treatment promptly gives you the best chance of saving it.
Do you direct bill root canal treatment?
Yes. We direct bill most major insurance providers, and you receive a full estimate before treatment begins. Our front desk can verify your coverage in advance.
Book Your Visit in Edmonton
If you have tooth pain, call (780) 761-7070 or book online. You will find us at 20036 Lessard Rd NW, Edmonton, AB T6M 0T9.