CLICK TO CALLRoot Canals
Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic treatment, is the process of removing infected, injured or dead pulp from your tooth. The space inside the hard layers of each tooth is called the root canal system. The canal is then filled with materials designed to prevent infection from recurring and restore the tooth to its full function.
A successful root canal treatment lets you keep your tooth rather than having it extracted. Keeping your tooth helps to prevent adjacent teeth from drifting out of line, causing further problems.
Dr. Hormoz may recommend root canal therapy for the following reasons:
- Decay has reached the tooth pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth).
- Infection or abscess have developed inside the tooth or at the root tip.
- Injury or trauma to the tooth.
- Minimal to severe pain.
- Tooth discoloration.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold.
- Swelling and irritation in the surrounding gum tissue.
- Sometimes no symptoms are present.
Whether you are experiencing symptoms or have questions about root canal treatment in Erin, Ontario, contact Erin Hills Dental today. We would be happy to help you understand your options.
Root Canal FAQs: Common Questions About Root Canals
Root canal treatment can sound intimidating, but it is often used to relieve tooth pain, treat infection, and help save a natural tooth. Below are answers to common questions patients may have about root canal treatment in Erin.
A root canal is a dental treatment that removes infected or inflamed tissue from inside a tooth. The tooth is then cleaned, sealed, and restored to help prevent the infection from spreading. This treatment may be recommended when decay, injury, or infection reaches the inner part of the tooth. For a deeper overview, read Erin Hills Dental’s complete beginner’s guide to root canals.
You may need a root canal if you have ongoing tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling around the gums, pain when biting or chewing, or a tooth that has darkened. Some infections do not cause obvious symptoms right away, so a dental exam and X-rays are the best way to find out what treatment is needed. If you are experiencing these symptoms, book a dental exam in Erin.
Root canal treatment is done with local anesthetic to help keep the area numb and comfortable. Many patients come in because the tooth is already painful, and the goal of treatment is to relieve pain caused by infection or inflammation. Modern root canal treatment is usually much more comfortable than people expect. If you feel nervous about treatment, ask the team about available sedation options that may help support a more comfortable visit. Modern dental technology may also help support accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
During a root canal, the dentist removes the infected or inflamed tissue from inside the tooth, cleans the canals, then fills and seals the space. After treatment, the tooth may need a permanent filling or dental crown to help protect it, depending on the tooth’s condition and location.
Some teeth need a dental crown after root canal treatment, especially back teeth that handle more chewing pressure. A crown can help protect and strengthen the treated tooth. Your dentist can recommend whether you need dental crowns after root canal treatment based on how much natural tooth structure remains.
Yes. Root canal treatment is often used to save a natural tooth that might otherwise need to be removed. Saving the tooth can help maintain your bite, chewing function, and smile. If a tooth cannot be saved, your dentist can discuss replacement options such as dental implants.
Delaying treatment may allow the infection or inflammation to get worse. This can lead to more pain, swelling, spreading infection, or possible tooth loss. If you have tooth pain or signs of infection, it is best to contact Erin Hills Dental to book a dental exam as soon as possible.
Some root canals can be completed in one appointment, while others may need more than one visit depending on the tooth, the level of infection, and the complexity of the case. Your dentist can explain what to expect after examining the tooth and taking X-rays. To discuss your symptoms and next steps, schedule a root canal consultation.
Learn More About Root Canal Treatment
For a more detailed explanation of root canal treatment, symptoms, benefits, and what to expect, read our complete beginner’s guide to root canals.
