Root Canal Therapy in Aldergrove

Relieve Discomfort and Help Save Your Natural Tooth

What Is Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy is used to treat a tooth when the soft tissue inside, known as the pulp, becomes inflamed or infected. This can happen because of deep decay, a crack or injury to the tooth, or repeated dental treatment.


During treatment, the affected tissue is removed, the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and sealed, and the tooth is restored to help protect it. At Aldergrove Dental, the goal of root canal therapy is to relieve discomfort, control infection and preserve your natural tooth whenever possible.

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Helps Save Your Natural Tooth

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Removes Infected or Damaged Tissue

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Helps Relieve Tooth Pain and Sensitivity

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Some dental problems develop gradually, while others can become painful quickly. You may need an assessment if you experience:

Outlined tooth with a lightning bolt symbol inside.

Persistent Tooth Pain

Pain that continues or worsens may indicate irritation or infection inside the tooth.

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Sensitivity to Hot or Cold

Lingering sensitivity after eating or drinking something hot or cold can be a sign that the tooth pulp is affected.

Outlined tooth above a rectangular base, like a dental icon with small highlight marks.

Swelling or Tenderness

Swelling around the tooth or tenderness in the nearby gums may indicate an infection that needs attention.

Cracked tooth icon in black outline, with a damaged crown and root.

A Darkened or Damaged Tooth

Changes in tooth colour, cracks or significant damage may sometimes affect the pulp inside the tooth.

What Happens During Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal therapy begins with an examination and diagnostic imaging when needed to assess the affected tooth. The damaged or infected tissue is then removed from inside the tooth, and the canals are cleaned and disinfected before being sealed.


After treatment, the tooth may need a filling or dental crown to restore its strength and function, depending on how much tooth structure remains.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is a root canal painful?

    Root canal therapy is performed to treat the source of tooth pain rather than cause it. Local anesthetic is used to numb the area during treatment. Some temporary tenderness may occur afterward as the surrounding tissues recover.

  • Why would I need a root canal instead of removing the tooth?

    When possible, root canal therapy can preserve your natural tooth by removing the damaged or infected tissue inside it. Keeping the natural tooth can help maintain normal chewing function and reduce the need to replace a missing tooth.

  • How do I know if my tooth is infected?

    Possible signs include persistent tooth pain, prolonged sensitivity, swelling, tenderness or changes in tooth colour. Some infections may cause few symptoms at first, which is why a dental examination and X-rays may be needed for an accurate diagnosis.

  • What happens after a root canal?

    The treated tooth is sealed and restored to protect it. Depending on the location and condition of the tooth, a dental crown may be recommended to provide additional strength. Your dentist will explain the appropriate restoration and aftercare for your tooth.

  • How long can a tooth last after root canal therapy?

    A properly treated and restored tooth can continue functioning for many years. Good brushing and flossing, routine dental visits and protecting the tooth from damage all play an important role in its long-term health.

Save Your Tooth and Relieve Discomfort

Root canal therapy can treat infection within a tooth, relieve discomfort, and help preserve your natural tooth whenever possible.