Preserving Your Natural Tooth
Root canal therapy involves removing the damaged inner pulp of a tooth and filling the space with specialised materials to restore its full functionality. This treatment not only extends the lifespan of your natural tooth but also protects the jawbone and surrounding tissues. Keeping your natural tooth helps prevent future discomfort and reduces the need for costly alternatives.
Signs you may need root canal therapy include:
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
- Severe tooth pain.
- Swelling or redness in the gums near the tooth.
- Discolouration of the tooth.
- An abscess or a noticeable bump on the gums.
Your Root Canal Treatment Journey
Root canal therapy is usually completed in one or two visits, either by a general dentist or an endodontist. Here’s an overview of what to expect:
Diagnosis and Initial Plan
We start by taking an x-ray to examine the affected tooth and surrounding bone. If needed, antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce infection and swelling. The discomfort often comes from the pressure caused by inflamed tissues, which we aim to manage before the procedure for a smoother experience.
Tooth Preparation
To ensure your comfort, we carefully numb the area with local anaesthesia. A small access point is made in the tooth to remove the pulp, bacteria, damaged nerve tissue, and other debris.
Tooth Sealing
Medication may be placed inside the tooth to eliminate any remaining bacteria. For multi-visit treatments, a temporary filling will protect the tooth in the meantime. Many patients feel relief even before this stage is complete. Once the tooth is clean and healthy, we seal it permanently to finalise the treatment.
Understanding Root Canal Costs in Calgary
The cost of dental procedures can vary widely, but a root canal is often a smart investment for long-term oral health. With typical insurance coverage, your out-of-pocket expense may range from $200 to $500+. After a thorough examination, we’ll provide a detailed estimate for your insurer, giving you a clear understanding of your expected costs. For those without insurance, the price usually falls between $600 and $1200+.
The wide cost range is influenced by several factors, such as:
- The severity of the infection.
- The tooth’s location in your mouth.
- The condition of nearby teeth and gums.
- Any additional complexities requiring extra time or expertise.
Since every case is unique, accurate quotes can’t be provided over the phone. An in-person consultation is essential to assess your specific needs and discuss suitable treatment options.
Are there alternatives to root canals?
An infected or abscessed tooth is more than just a source of discomfort—it poses a serious health risk. While root canals are highly effective in relieving pain and treating infections, they also prevent potentially severe complications that might require urgent and invasive care.
If you’re unsure about undergoing a root canal, we encourage you to reach out. We prioritise your understanding and comfort, only proceeding with a procedure once you’re fully informed and confident. In some cases, we may explore alternative treatments tailored to effectively manage the infection.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Modern techniques, advanced tools, and our compassionate care ensure that root canal procedures are performed with minimal to no pain.
By the time a root canal is needed, the pulp and nerve of the tooth are usually beyond repair. Antibiotics alone cannot resolve the issue, as the damaged tissue remains vulnerable to recurring infections.
Treatment typically requires one or two visits. Simple cases may take 30 to 60 minutes, while more complex procedures can last up to 90 minutes.
Your insurance plan will determine the level of coverage. After your consultation, we can provide a cost estimate for your insurer. If you have concerns, feel free to discuss them with us.
For molars and premolars, a crown is usually recommended after treatment to provide added strength. For front teeth like incisors and canines, a crown may not always be necessary.
