root canal therapy
IN BURLINGTON
Appleby Dental Professionals provides patient-focused dental care for individuals and families in Burlington.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy, also called endodontic treatment, removes infected or damaged tissue from inside a tooth. The area is then cleaned, disinfected and sealed to help preserve the natural tooth.
A root canal may be recommended when the pulp inside a tooth becomes inflamed or infected because of deep decay, cracks, trauma or other damage.
Does A Root Canal Hurt?
Root canal treatment is performed with local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. Most patients should not feel pain during the procedure, although some tenderness or sensitivity may occur afterward as the area heals.
If you are experiencing severe dental pain or swelling, contact Appleby Dental Professionals for an assessment. For urgent concerns, learn more about our emergency dental care in Burlington.
When Is a Root Canal Recommended?
A dentist may recommend root canal treatment when the tissue inside a tooth is infected or severely damaged. Signs that may require assessment include:
- persistent tooth pain
- sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
- pain when biting or chewing
- swelling or tenderness around the tooth
- a cracked or badly damaged tooth
- changes in the colour of a tooth
These symptoms do not always mean a root canal is needed. A dental examination and, when appropriate, digital dental X-rays may help your dentist determine the cause and recommend treatment.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
Mild tenderness or sensitivity may occur for a short period after treatment. Your dentist will provide aftercare instructions based on your specific procedure and the condition of the tooth.
In many cases, the treated tooth will need a final restoration to help protect it and restore normal chewing function. The type of restoration recommended will depend on how much healthy tooth structure remains.
For more information about how treatment options may differ, read:
- Root Canal vs. Filling: What May Affect the Recommended Treatment?
- Root Canal Therapy vs. Tooth Extraction
What Happens After Root Canal Treatment?
Mild tenderness or sensitivity may occur for a short period after treatment. Your dentist will provide instructions based on your specific procedure and the condition of the tooth.
In many cases, the treated tooth will need a final restoration such as a filling or crown. This helps protect the tooth and restore normal chewing function.
Root Canal Therapy FAQs
How do I know if I need a root canal?
Only a dental examination can determine whether root canal therapy is appropriate. Persistent pain, lingering sensitivity, swelling or discomfort when chewing are reasons to book an assessment.
Can a root canal save a tooth?
Root canal therapy is designed to remove infection or damaged tissue while preserving the natural tooth when possible.
Will I need a crown after a root canal?
Some teeth require a crown after root canal therapy, particularly when significant tooth structure has been lost. Your dentist will recommend the appropriate restoration based on the tooth.
What is the alternative to a root canal?
Depending on the condition of the tooth, extraction may sometimes be considered. The recommended treatment depends on factors such as infection, remaining tooth structure and overall oral health. You can learn more in our guide to root canal therapy vs. tooth extraction
Book a Root Canal Assessment in Burlington
Experiencing persistent tooth pain, sensitivity or swelling? Appleby Dental Professionals can assess the tooth and discuss whether root canal therapy or another treatment may be appropriate.
Contact our Burlington dental team to request an appointment or call (905) 331-7654.
