Tooth pain can be more than just an inconvenience—it might be a sign of something serious like an infected or damaged tooth pulp. One of the most common procedures to address this issue is a root canal. But how do you know which teeth need a root canal and when to seek treatment?
At Pro Grace Dentistry in NW Calgary, our expert dental team is here to help you recognize the signs early and provide comfortable, effective root canal therapy when needed. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the symptoms, causes, and when to schedule a visit.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that removes infected or inflamed pulp tissue inside a tooth. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels, and when it’s damaged—due to deep decay, trauma, or infection—it can lead to intense pain, swelling, or even abscess formation.
Root canals are designed to save your natural tooth and eliminate the need for extraction. With today’s advanced technology, root canal therapy is more comfortable and efficient than ever before.
Common Signs That You May Need a Root Canal
1. Persistent Tooth Pain
If you’re experiencing ongoing, throbbing pain in a specific tooth, especially when chewing or applying pressure, it could indicate pulp damage. While toothaches can arise from many issues, intense and lingering pain often points toward the need for a root canal.
2. Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
A tooth that reacts with sharp pain to hot drinks or cold foods—especially if the discomfort lingers—may be suffering from nerve damage or pulp inflammation. This kind of temperature sensitivity shouldn’t be ignored.
3. Discoloration or Darkening of the Tooth
A dark or discolored tooth can signal internal damage or pulp death, particularly after trauma. This often occurs when the tooth’s inner tissue is compromised and may require root canal treatment.
4. Swollen or Tender Gums
If you notice swelling, tenderness, or a recurring bump on your gums near a specific tooth, it could indicate an infection at the root tip. This abscess needs to be addressed immediately to prevent further complications.
5. Chipped or Cracked Tooth
Injuries from accidents, biting down on hard foods, or grinding can lead to cracks in the tooth enamel, which allows bacteria to enter and infect the pulp. Even if the crack isn’t visible, underlying damage may require root canal therapy.
6. Prolonged Pain After Dental Work
Sometimes, if you’ve recently had a filling or crown and continue to feel pain or pressure in that area, it might mean that the pulp has been affected and needs treatment.
When to See a Dentist
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, don’t wait. Early intervention is the key to saving your natural tooth. The longer you delay treatment, the greater the risk of infection spreading to surrounding tissues or leading to tooth loss.
At Pro Grace Dentistry, we use digital imaging and thorough diagnostic techniques to determine whether a root canal is the best option for you.
What Happens During a Root Canal at Pro Grace Dentistry?
Here’s what you can expect when undergoing root canal treatment at our NW Calgary dental clinic:
Consultation and Exam
During your visit, our dentists will take X-rays and perform a detailed examination to evaluate the tooth’s condition. This helps determine if a root canal is necessary and allows us to plan the most effective treatment approach.
Numbing the Area
To ensure a comfortable experience, local anesthesia is used to numb the affected tooth and surrounding tissue. This step guarantees the entire procedure is pain-free, helping patients feel at ease throughout the root canal treatment.
Pulp Removal
Once the area is numb, the infected or inflamed pulp is gently removed from the inner chambers of the tooth. This step eliminates bacteria and relieves pressure and pain caused by the infection.
Cleaning and Sealing
The cleaned root canals are thoroughly disinfected to remove any remaining bacteria. Then, they are filled and sealed with a biocompatible material to prevent future infections and preserve the tooth’s structure.
Restoration
After sealing, the tooth may be restored with a dental crown. This not only strengthens the treated tooth but also restores its natural appearance, function, and durability for long-term protection.
Why Choose Pro Grace Dentistry for Root Canal Treatment?
At Pro Grace Dentistry, we’re committed to providing compassionate, affordable, and expert dental care in NW Calgary.
- Open 7 Days a Week – including evenings and weekends
- Affordable Fees – following the ADA Fee Guide
- Sedation Dentistry Available – for nervous or anxious patients
- In-House Specialists – no need for referrals
- Direct Billing – we accept all major insurance and government plans
Our experienced dentists, including Dr. Gurshant Grewal, specialize in root canal therapy and ensure your treatment is as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Visit Pro Grace Dentistry in NW Calgary
If you’re dealing with persistent tooth pain or suspect you might need a root canal, don’t wait. At Pro Grace Dentistry in Calgary, AB, we’re here 7 days a week to help you get the care you need.
Looking for expert dental care in NW Calgary? Visit us at 233-3630 Brentwood Rd NW—your trusted neighborhood dental home! Whether you’re dealing with tooth pain, missing teeth, or just need a routine check-up, our friendly team at Pro Grace Dentistry is here to help. Call us today at 403-288-8080 and book your consultation. Let’s work together to give you the pain-free, confident smile you deserve!
FAQs
Is a root canal painful?
With local anesthesia and advanced techniques, root canals are virtually pain-free. You may experience mild discomfort after the procedure, but it typically subsides quickly.
How long does a root canal take?
Most root canals can be completed in one to two appointments, depending on the severity of the infection and the complexity of the tooth.
Will I need a crown after a root canal?
In most cases, a crown is recommended to strengthen and protect the treated tooth, especially if it’s a molar or premolar.
How much does a root canal cost in Calgary?
The cost can vary based on the tooth and complexity, but we follow the ADA Fee Guide and offer flexible payment plans.
What happens if I don’t get a root canal?
Delaying treatment can lead to abscess formation, severe pain, bone loss, and the eventual loss of the tooth.
