Question 1

What is endodontics?

Accepted Answer

Endodontics is the dental specialty focused on diagnosing and treating problems involving the inside of the tooth — specifically the dental pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. The word comes from the Greek for 'inside the tooth.' Endodontic treatments include root canal therapy, retreatment, and apicoectomy. The goal is always to save your natural tooth whenever possible.

Question 2

Are root canals painful?

Accepted Answer

Root canals have a reputation for being painful, but that reputation is outdated. Modern anaesthesia and techniques mean the procedure itself is typically no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. In fact, the pain most people associate with root canals is the toothache they had before treatment — which the procedure eliminates. Some mild soreness for a day or two after is normal and easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief.

Question 3

What are the signs I may need a root canal?

Accepted Answer

Common signs include severe or throbbing tooth pain, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold (that lingers after the source is removed), pain when biting or chewing, tooth darkening, swollen or tender gums near a tooth, and a pimple-like bump on the gums. It's important to know that some pulp infections cause no pain at all until they become abscesses — which is why regular check-ups and X-rays are important for early detection.

Question 4

Why would I need endodontic treatment instead of just extracting the tooth?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, saving your natural tooth is the better long-term outcome. Natural teeth are always superior to artificial replacements in terms of function, stability, and health. Extracting a tooth without replacing it leads to bone loss, shifting of adjacent teeth, and bite problems. A root canal followed by a crown is often more cost-effective in the long run than extraction followed by an implant or bridge — and preserves what you already have.

Question 5

How long does a root canal take?

Accepted Answer

Most root canal procedures take one to two appointments of 60–90 minutes each. Straightforward cases with a single root canal may be completed in one visit. More complex teeth (e.g. molars with multiple canals) or teeth with significant infection may require a second appointment to ensure complete healing before the final filling. After the root canal, a crown appointment is typically scheduled separately.

Question 6

What is the difference between retreatment and an apicoectomy?

Accepted Answer

Endodontic retreatment is a non-surgical procedure where the tooth is reopened, the old root filling material is removed, the canals are re-cleaned and re-shaped, and the tooth is resealed. It is the first step when a root-canal-treated tooth fails to heal or becomes reinfected. An apicoectomy is a minor surgical procedure used when retreatment alone cannot eliminate infection — the tip of the root and the surrounding infected tissue are surgically removed and the root end is sealed from below.

Question 7

What happens after a root canal?

Accepted Answer

After root canal therapy, the treated tooth is usually protected with a crown to prevent fracture and restore full chewing function. With proper care — good oral hygiene, regular cleanings, and avoiding excessive force on the treated tooth — a root-canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime. Some mild sensitivity for a few days after treatment is normal. If pain worsens or swelling develops, contact us promptly as it may indicate a need for further evaluation.

Endodontics & Root Canal Therapy

Procedures We Offer

Root Canal Therapy

Endodontic Retreatment

Apicoectomy

Signs You May Need Endodontic Treatment

Warning Signs

What Damages the Tooth Pulp?

Bacterial Infection

Fractures & Chips

Trauma or Injury

Deep Decay

Why Save Your Natural Tooth?

Comfortable, Precise Endodontic Care

Gentle, Experienced Endodontic Care

Endodontics FAQs

Book an Endodontic Consultation in Thornhill