Root Canals Are Not What Most People Think
Root canals have one of the worst reputations in dentistry — but that reputation is almost entirely undeserved. A root canal is a routine, pain-relieving procedure that saves an infected or severely damaged tooth, and most patients are surprised to find it feels no worse than getting a standard filling. If you’ve been putting off dental care because you’re afraid of a root canal, this guide is for you.
Myth #1: Root Canals Are Extremely Painful
This is the most common misconception — and the furthest from the truth. The pain people associate with a root canal is actually caused by the infection itself, not the treatment. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, which thoroughly numbs the tooth and surrounding tissue before any work begins.
Modern root canal therapy has advanced significantly. Rotary endodontic instruments, improved anaesthetic techniques, and better imaging mean the process is faster and more comfortable than ever. Most patients report feeling pressure or mild vibration — nothing more. Many say the biggest relief comes after the procedure, when the source of their throbbing toothache is finally gone.
Myth #2: It’s Better to Just Pull the Tooth
Extracting a tooth may seem like the simpler option, but it often creates more problems than it solves. When a natural tooth is removed, the surrounding bone begins to resorb (shrink), neighbouring teeth can shift, and biting function is affected. Replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant or bridge involves additional procedures and cost.
A root canal allows you to keep your natural tooth, maintain normal chewing function, and protect your jawbone. Dentists are trained with a “save the tooth first” philosophy for good reason — your natural teeth are irreplaceable.
Myth #3: Root Canals Cause Illness
This myth originates from debunked research conducted over a century ago. The claim — that bacteria trapped during a root canal spread through the body and cause systemic disease — has been thoroughly disproved by modern science and extensive clinical research. The Canadian Dental Association and dental research institutions worldwide confirm that root canal therapy is safe and does not cause illness.
In fact, leaving an untreated dental infection in place is far more dangerous. A bacterial infection in the dental pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels) can spread to the jawbone, neck, or even the brain if left unaddressed.
What Actually Happens During a Root Canal?
Understanding the procedure helps take the fear out of it. Here is what to expect:
- Diagnosis and imaging: Your dentist takes X-rays to assess the extent of infection in the pulp chamber and root canals.
- Anaesthetic: The area is fully numbed with local anaesthetic so you feel comfortable throughout.
- Access opening: A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth to reach the pulp chamber.
- Cleaning and shaping: The infected or inflamed pulp tissue is carefully removed, and the root canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected.
- Filling: The canals are sealed with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha to prevent reinfection.
- Restoration: A dental crown is typically placed over the tooth to restore its strength and appearance.
The entire process usually takes one to two appointments. Mild soreness for a day or two afterward is normal and easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
Not every toothache means you need endodontic treatment, but there are specific symptoms worth taking seriously:
- Persistent, severe toothache — especially when chewing or applying pressure
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the stimulus is removed
- Darkening or discolouration of the tooth
- Swelling or tenderness in the nearby gum tissue
- A recurring pimple-like bump (dental abscess) on the gums
If you’re experiencing any of these, don’t wait. Early treatment leads to better outcomes and less discomfort overall.
You Deserve Comfortable, Judgement-Free Dental Care
At For Your Smile Dental in Crowfoot NW, Calgary, Dr. Christine Kim and our team genuinely understand dental anxiety. We take the time to explain every step of your treatment, answer all your questions, and ensure you are fully comfortable before we begin. We offer IV sedation for patients who need extra support, as well as flexible 0% financing options so cost is never a barrier to care. If you’re experiencing tooth pain or have been told you may need a root canal, don’t let fear hold you back any longer. Call us at 587-330-3000 or book your appointment online at fysmiledental.com — we’re here to help you get out of pain and back to smiling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do root canals hurt?
Most patients find that a root canal is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling, thanks to modern local anaesthetic techniques. The pain you may be feeling before the procedure — caused by the infection inside the tooth — is what the root canal actually relieves.
How long does a root canal take in Calgary?
A straightforward root canal at a Calgary dental clinic typically takes one to two appointments, each lasting about 60 to 90 minutes. The timeline depends on which tooth is being treated and the complexity of the infection, which your dentist will assess with X-rays beforehand.
Is it better to get a root canal or just have the tooth pulled?
In most cases, saving the natural tooth with a root canal is the better long-term option. Extracting a tooth can lead to bone loss, shifting of neighbouring teeth, and the need for a dental implant or bridge — which involves additional procedures and expense.
How do I know if I need a root canal?
Common signs that you may need root canal therapy include a severe or persistent toothache, lingering sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, a darkened tooth, swollen gums, or a recurring abscess near the affected tooth. A dental exam and X-rays at your Calgary dentist's office will confirm the diagnosis.
Are root canals safe?
Yes, root canal therapy is a safe, well-established dental procedure supported by the Canadian Dental Association and decades of clinical research. The old myth that root canals cause systemic illness has been thoroughly disproved by modern science — in fact, leaving a dental infection untreated is far more dangerous to your health.
What happens after a root canal — will I need a crown?
After root canal therapy, the treated tooth is typically restored with a dental crown to protect it from fracture and restore full chewing function. Your dentist will recommend the appropriate restoration based on how much natural tooth structure remains after the procedure.
Can I get a root canal if I'm nervous about dental treatment?
Absolutely — dental anxiety is very common and nothing to be embarrassed about. At For Your Smile Dental in Calgary's Crowfoot NW, we offer IV sedation and a compassionate, judgement-free approach to help anxious patients feel at ease throughout their root canal treatment.