Saving your natural tooth
Root canal therapy removes infected or damaged pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth) and replaces it with a medicated filling material. This eliminates infection and restores strength and function. Preserving your natural tooth also helps maintain the health of your jawbone and surrounding tissues, reducing the risk of more complex problems in the future.
Signs you may need a root canal
- Sensitivity to hot or cold.
- Severe or lingering toothache pain.
- Red, swollen, or tender gums near the tooth.
- Discolouration of the affected tooth.
- An abscess or pimple-like bump on the gums.
The root canal treatment plan
Root canal therapy usually requires one or two appointments and is carefully performed to relieve pain and preserve your tooth. At Shelburne Village Dental, Dr. Waseem ensures the procedure is carried out with precision and a focus on your comfort.
Step 1: Diagnosis and treatment planning
An X-ray of the tooth and surrounding bone is taken to identify the source of your symptoms. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to control infection and reduce inflammation. Much of the discomfort from an abscess comes from pressure caused by swelling, so reducing this in advance helps make the procedure smoother and less painful.
Step 2: Preparing the tooth
The area is numbed with a local anesthetic so you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Once fully frozen, a small opening is made in the tooth. The infected pulp, bacteria, and any damaged tissue are carefully removed.
Step 3: Sealing the tooth
To eliminate infection, medicine may be placed inside the tooth before it is sealed. If treatment requires more than one visit, a temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth until the next appointment. Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and healthy, it is permanently sealed and can later be restored with a dental crown for added strength and durability.
Contact Us Today
to book your initial consultation and exam.
During this visit, we will carefully examine your teeth, gums, soft tissues, and the overall function of your bite. Our goal is to understand how your entire mouth looks and works together. Before creating a treatment plan, we take the time to learn about both the health and appearance of your smile, and most importantly, your personal goals so we can design the right care to help you achieve them.
Frequently Asked Questions
A root canal is usually required when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or damaged due to decay, cracks, or trauma. Without treatment, the infection can spread and cause severe pain or an abscess.
With modern anesthetic and gentle techniques, most patients report that a root canal feels similar to having a cavity filled. The procedure is designed to relieve pain, not cause it.
No. Antibiotics may reduce infection temporarily, but they cannot remove infected pulp inside the tooth. A root canal is the only way to properly clean and restore the tooth.
Most root canal treatments can be completed in one or two visits. Each visit may take between 60 and 90 minutes depending on the complexity of the tooth.
In many cases, yes. Back teeth such as molars and premolars often require a dental crown to strengthen and protect the restored tooth. Front teeth may not always need a crown.
Good oral hygiene is key. Brush and floss daily, wear a sports guard if you grind your teeth or play contact sports, and schedule regular dental checkups.
Delaying treatment can allow the infection to spread, leading to more pain, swelling, and even bone loss. In severe cases, the tooth may need to be extracted.
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