What Is Root Canal Treatment and When Do You Need It?

If you've been told you might need a root canal, you're not alone — and you're definitely not doomed to a painful experience. Root canal treatment is one of the most common and effective dental procedures available today. In fact, it’s designed to relieve pain, not cause it. Let’s break down what a root canal is, why it’s needed, and how Newmarket dental clinics offer gentle, modern solutions to help you save your smile.

What Is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a procedure that treats the inside of a damaged or infected tooth. Your tooth has a soft core called the pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When that pulp becomes infected — often due to deep decay, repeated dental work, cracks, or trauma — it can cause severe pain and swelling.

A root canal involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and sealing the space to prevent future infection. Once the tooth is cleaned out, it’s usually restored with a crown or filling for strength and function.

Signs You Might Need a Root Canal

You may need a root canal if the pulp of your tooth is damaged or infected. Here are some of the most common symptoms:

• Persistent toothache: A deep, throbbing pain that doesn’t go away.

• Sensitivity to hot or cold: Especially if the discomfort lingers even after the source is removed.

• Swelling or tenderness: Around the gums or face, sometimes with a small pimple-like bump (called an abscess).

• Darkening of the tooth: This could indicate internal damage or decay.

• Pain when chewing or biting: A possible sign of inflammation in the tooth root.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to visit a Newmarket dentist as soon as possible. Early diagnosis can save the tooth and prevent more extensive treatment later on.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore the Signs

Putting off treatment for an infected tooth can lead to serious complications. The infection can spread to the jawbone or even other parts of the body in rare cases. More commonly, untreated infections lead to increased pain, bone loss, and eventually tooth extraction.

Root canal treatment is designed to save your natural tooth, which is always the best outcome when possible. Keeping your natural teeth helps you maintain normal biting and chewing ability, jawbone strength, and the natural look of your smile.

What Happens During a Root Canal?

Most root canals are completed in one or two appointments. Here’s a general overview of the process:

1. Examination and X-rays – Your dentist will examine the tooth and take X-rays to determine the extent of the infection.

2. Anesthesia – A local anesthetic is used to numb the area, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure.

3. Cleaning the canals – A small hole is made in the tooth to remove the infected pulp. The root canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected.

4. Filling and sealing – The empty canals are filled with a biocompatible material (usually gutta-percha) and sealed.

5. Restoration – Most teeth treated with a root canal will need a crown to restore strength and function.

In Newmarket dental offices, modern technology and techniques make the process smooth, efficient, and comfortable.

Does a Root Canal Hurt?

One of the biggest myths about root canals is that they’re painful. In reality, the pain you feel is from the infection, not the treatment. With today’s advanced anesthetics and dental tools, getting a root canal is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling.

Most patients in Newmarket report feeling significant relief immediately after treatment — and very little, if any, pain during the procedure.

Aftercare and Recovery

After the root canal, your tooth may feel a little sensitive for a few days, especially if there was pain or infection before treatment. Over-the-counter pain relievers are usually enough to manage any discomfort. Your dentist will provide care instructions and may schedule a follow-up to place a permanent crown.

With proper care — including regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups — a tooth that has had a root canal can last a lifetime.

Final Thoughts

If you're experiencing persistent tooth pain or other warning signs, don't wait. A root canal treatment in Newmarket could be the solution you need to eliminate pain, prevent infection, and save your natural tooth.

The best way to know for sure is to book a consultation with a trusted local dentist. Early intervention makes all the difference — and thanks to modern dentistry, root canals are faster, easier, and more comfortable than ever.