Root canal treatment in Guelph
Root canal treatment can help save an injured or infected tooth.
A root canal may be needed when decay, infection, or injury reaches the living tissue inside a tooth. The treatment removes the affected tissue, cleans the canal system, and seals the tooth so it can often be preserved.
Why root canals help
Relieve infection while keeping your natural tooth when possible.
When a tooth can be restored, root canal treatment may help avoid extraction and restore comfort and function.
Help save the tooth
Root canal treatment can allow a restorable tooth to stay in place instead of being removed.
Address infection
The infected or inflamed tissue inside the tooth is removed and the canal is sealed.
Reduce pain source
Treating the inside of the tooth can relieve the source of many toothaches.
Restore function
After treatment and restoration, the tooth can often return to normal chewing function.
Limit infection spread
Treating the canal system helps address infection inside the tooth before it causes more damage.
Prepare for protection
After the canal is sealed, we plan the filling or crown needed to protect the tooth.
What to expect
A careful treatment process for painful or infected teeth.
We begin with an exam and x-rays, explain the diagnosis, and discuss whether root canal treatment is appropriate for your tooth.
Diagnosis
We examine the tooth, review symptoms, and take x-rays to assess the root and surrounding bone.
Cleaning the canals
Affected tissue is removed and the canals are cleaned and shaped.
Sealing the tooth
The canals are filled and sealed to help prevent reinfection.
Final restoration
A filling or crown is often needed to protect the tooth after root canal treatment.
Root canal details
Signs a root canal may be needed.
Symptoms vary, and some infected teeth have few symptoms. A dental exam is needed to confirm the diagnosis.
Symptoms may include
- Lingering hot or cold sensitivity
- Spontaneous tooth pain
- Pain when biting
- Swelling or gum tenderness
- Darkening or injury history
We evaluate
- Tooth restorability
- Root and bone condition on x-rays
- Cracks or fractures
- Bite pressure
- Whether a crown is needed afterward
Related services
Related services for tooth pain and repair.
Questions patients ask
Root canal FAQs
These answers are general. Your dentist will explain your diagnosis and treatment options after an exam.
How do I know if I need a root canal?
Symptoms can include lingering sensitivity, pain when biting, swelling, or spontaneous pain, but an exam and x-rays are needed for diagnosis.
Does every painful tooth need a root canal?
No. Tooth pain can come from cavities, cracks, gums, bite issues, or sinus pressure. We examine the tooth before recommending treatment.
Will I need a crown after a root canal?
Many back teeth and weakened teeth need a crown after root canal treatment to protect them from fracture.
Can a root canal save my tooth?
If the tooth has enough healthy structure and the surrounding support is adequate, root canal treatment may help preserve it.