The words root canal may sound frightening, but it is a good thing in modern dentistry; the process is much smoother, safer, and often much less painful than having a filling placed. If you’re thinking about root canal therapy in SE Calgary, it will help to know what follows so you can feel less anxious and more ready for the treatment.

Knowing what to expect at each stage of the procedure can help to ease your nerves and instill confidence in your decision. A root canal, with the proper care, relieves pain and preserves your natural tooth. Preserving your natural tooth allows you to return to the enjoyment of eating, speaking and smiling without discomfort.

Why Would You Need a Root Canal?

A root canal is undertaken when the inside of a tooth (pulp) is infected or compromised. This can be caused by:

  • Deep decay or cavities
  • A cracked or chipped tooth
  • Trauma to the tooth
  • Multiple dental treatments on the same tooth

Without treatment, infection can worsen, leading to extremely painful infections, swelling, or even tooth loss. A root canal assists in saving your natural tooth and restores its function.

What Happens During the Root Canal Procedure?

If you’ve come to this page because you’re booking a root canal appointment with a dentist in SE Calgary, here’s a quick overview of the process:

  • Step 1: Numbing the Tooth—The dentist will give you a local anesthetic to numb the tooth for the treatment.
  • Step 2: Opening the Pulp—A small hole is drilled in the tooth to remove the infected pulp.
  • Step 3: Cleaning and Shaping—The dentist will clean the infection out of the tooth with special instruments; they will then also shape the canals.
  • Step 4: Filling the Canals—Once the area is cleaned up, the dentist will fill the canals with a safe material to prevent future infection.
  • Step 5: Sealing the Tooth—The dentist will then give you a filling (temporary or permanent) so that you can use the tooth until the crown or restoration is done.

The treatment can take anywhere from one visit to two visits, depending on how many canals are cleaned out in the tooth.

What Can You Expect Afterwards?

Recovering from root canal therapy near you is usually rapid and without difficulties. Here’s what many of our patients experience:

  • Some minor pain, discomfort or sensitivity for a day or two after the procedure that can be managed with pain-relieving medication.
  • Normal speech and eating typically return within one day, although chewing on the treated tooth should be avoided until a final crown has been fitted.
  • Follow-up appointments might be necessary to complete proper healing and cement the final crown for durability and strength.

How Do You Care for My Tooth After a Root Canal?

For easy healing and long-term success, below are some aftercare tips:

  • Don’t bite hard foods against the filled tooth until your dentist has crowned it.
  • Continue with brushing and flossing to avoid developing new decay.
  • Visit a dentist near you regularly to check on your oral health.
  • Call your dentist if you experience swelling, extreme pain, or anything out of the ordinary.

Are Root Canals Painful?

Many people are afraid that root canals are painful, but the reality is that the procedure more often than not relieves pain associated with infection. With all of the modern techniques and anesthesia, the procedure feels comparable to getting a filling.

Heritage Smiles Dental—we protect your smile in SE Calgary

If you are experiencing tooth pain or think you might need a root canal, don’t wait! At Heritage Smiles Dental, we will be with you every step of the way and ensure your treatment process is as smooth as possible.

Take the next step toward comfort and confidence—book your visit with Heritage Smiles Dental today.

FAQs:

Q1. How long is a root canal?

A root canal generally takes only one to two visits, and the overall duration is based on the state of the tooth. The visit per appointment is usually about an hour and a half or so (60-90 minutes).

Q2. Does the root canal hurt while it is being done or after it is completed?

Most root canals are done under local anesthesia. The majority of patients experience minimal to no discomfort during the root canal but have some mild soreness afterward, which usually goes away within a few days.

Q3. Will I need a crown after a root canal?

Generally, yes. A crown will cover your tooth after treatment and restore strength to your tooth to endure many more years!