Root Canal Therapy
Often times, individuals may experience severe pain deep within the roots of their teeth. This can happen when the dental pulp—the inner part of your teeth that contains blood vessels and nerves—becomes infected or inflamed. Other times, a patient may experience significant damage to one or several teeth and seek to have them replaced.
In these severe circumstances, a root canal therapy may be your best option to prevent your affected tooth or teeth from experiencing severe decay and no longer becoming viable.
Otherwise known as endodontic therapy, root canal therapy is routinely performed by our dental professionals to restore the comfortability and function of natural teeth. Root canal therapy is often thought to be a painful procedure when in fact, many patients report that the process is not as painful as they thought.
Schedule Your Root Canal in North Winnipeg
If you would like to consult our dentists about complications you may be experiencing with your teeth, call us today at (204) 560-4500 to book an appointment.
FAQs About Root Canal Treatment in Winnipeg
1. What is a root canal treatment?
A root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a procedure that removes infected or inflamed pulp from inside the tooth. Once the pulp is removed, the tooth is cleaned, disinfected, and sealed with a filling or crown to restore strength and function. This treatment helps save your natural tooth and prevent the need for extraction.
2. Why would I need a root canal?
You may need a root canal if the dental pulp becomes infected or damaged due to deep decay, cracks, repeated dental procedures, or trauma. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent tooth pain or pressure
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums
- Darkening or discolouration of the tooth
If left untreated, the infection can spread and cause more serious oral health issues, including abscesses or bone loss.
3. Does a root canal hurt?
Contrary to popular belief, modern root canal treatment is not painful. At Aura Dental Centre, we use local anesthesia and gentle techniques to ensure your comfort. Most patients report that the experience feels similar to getting a standard filling—and the procedure actually relieves pain, rather than causes it.
4. How long does a root canal take?
Most root canal procedures are completed in one to three visits, depending on the complexity of the case and whether a crown is required. Each appointment typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes.
5. What happens during a root canal procedure?
During the procedure, your dentist will:
- Numb the area and create a small opening in the tooth.
- Remove the infected or damaged pulp.
- Clean and disinfect the inner canals.
- Fill the canals with a special material to prevent re-infection.
- Seal or temporarily restore the tooth until a permanent filling or crown is placed.
- This process restores your tooth’s structure, strength, and function.
6. What should I expect after a root canal?
It’s common to feel mild soreness or sensitivity for a few days following treatment, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your final restoration is placed. Most patients resume normal activities the next day.
7. Will I need a crown after my root canal?
In many cases, yes. Because the tooth may become more brittle after root canal therapy, a dental crown is often recommended to provide added protection and restore natural appearance. Your Winnipeg dentist will discuss whether a crown is necessary based on your tooth’s condition.
8. How long does a root canal last?
Root canals have a high success rate. Studies show that over 97% of treated teeth last at least 8 years, and many last a lifetime with proper care. Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular checkups at Aura Dental Centre will help ensure lasting results.
9. Can a root canal fail?
Although rare, a root canal may require retreatment if bacteria re-enter the tooth due to a cracked crown, delayed restoration, or new decay. Early detection and follow-up appointments help prevent complications.
10. How should I care for my tooth after a root canal?
To support healing and longevity:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to keep the area clean
- Avoid hard or sticky foods until your restoration is complete
- Attend regular dental checkups for monitoring
Proper care will help your treated tooth remain strong and functional for years to come.
