Root Canal Treatment
in Calgary
Relieve tooth pain and save your natural tooth with gentle, modern root canal care.
About Root Canal Treatment
Inside every tooth is soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When deep decay, a crack or an injury allows bacteria to reach the pulp, it can become infected and painful. Root canal treatment removes the infected tissue, cleans the inside of the tooth and seals it, so you can keep your natural tooth instead of losing it.
If you need a root canal in SW Calgary, our team at West 17th Avenue Dental Care provides root canal treatment as part of our general dentistry services. With modern techniques and effective anaesthesia, the procedure is usually completed in one appointment.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
- Severe tooth pain, especially when biting or chewing.
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold after the temperature is gone.
- A tooth that has darkened in colour.
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the tooth.
- A pimple-like bump on the gum.
Some infected teeth cause no pain at all, which is why regular exams matter. If you have severe pain or swelling, call us right away. We reserve time every day through our Emergency Dentist service.
Before Your Root Canal
- Tell us about your health history, any medications you take and any allergies, including allergies to anaesthetic.
- Take any medication your dentist or doctor has prescribed for the infection or pain exactly as directed.
- Unless we tell you otherwise, have a light meal beforehand so you are comfortable during the visit.
- Bring your insurance details and any recent X-rays if they were taken elsewhere.
- If you feel anxious, talk to us about Sedation Dentistry before the day. If you choose oral sedation, arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home.
- Plan a quiet rest of the day if you can.
What Happens During a Root Canal
Exam and X-ray. Your dentist confirms the diagnosis and explains the treatment.
Anaesthesia. We numb the area so you feel comfortable.
Cleaning. Your dentist removes the infected pulp and cleans and shapes the inside of the tooth.
Sealing. The space is filled and sealed to prevent reinfection.
Restoration. The tooth is protected with a filling or crown.
Root Canal vs Extraction
Saving your natural tooth is usually the best option when it is possible. A natural tooth keeps your bite stable and your jawbone supported. If a tooth is too badly damaged to save, your dentist will explain your options, including Tooth Extraction and replacement.
Aftercare and Recovery
- Your mouth will stay numb for a few hours. Avoid eating until the numbness wears off so you do not bite your cheek or tongue.
- Mild soreness for a few days is common. Over-the-counter pain relievers taken as directed on the label usually help.
- Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it has its final filling or crown.
- Avoid very hard, sticky or crunchy foods on that side at first.
- Keep brushing and flossing as usual, gently around the treated tooth.
- A tooth that has had a root canal is often protected with a crown to keep it strong, and we can arrange this through our Crowns and Bridges service.
- Call us if you have severe pain, swelling, a fever or a bite that feels uneven.
Why Choose West 17th Avenue Dental Care
- More than 30 years serving Calgary families, with a clinic on 17th Avenue SW.
- A 4.9 Google rating from more than 200 reviews.
- Same-day emergency appointments reserved every day.
- A multilingual team that speaks English, Mandarin, Taiwanese, Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu.
- Direct billing to most major insurance plans and the Canadian Dental Care Plan accepted.
- Open six days a week, with a free parking lot north of the building, accessible from 15th Street SW.
Cost of Root Canal Treatment
The cost of a root canal depends on which tooth is affected and whether a crown is needed afterwards. We explain the cost before treatment begins, bill most major insurance plans directly and offer 0% interest financing. You can read more in our Financial Options section or call (403) 244-1124 for an estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a root canal hurt?
The procedure itself should not hurt. We numb the area first, and most patients say it feels similar to having a filling. The treatment relieves the pain caused by the infection.
How long does a root canal take?
A root canal is usually completed in one appointment, although some cases need a second visit. Your dentist will tell you what to expect after examining the tooth.
What are the signs I need a root canal?
Common signs include severe tooth pain, lingering sensitivity to hot and cold, a darkened tooth, and swelling or a bump on the gum. Some teeth cause no symptoms, so regular exams are important.
Is a root canal better than an extraction?
When a tooth can be saved, a root canal is usually the better choice because it preserves your natural tooth and bite. If the tooth cannot be saved, an extraction followed by replacement may be recommended.
How much does a root canal cost in Calgary?
The cost depends on the tooth and whether a crown is needed. Call (403) 244-1124 and we will give you an estimate, check your insurance coverage and explain our 0% interest financing.
Book Your Appointment
Ready for a Healthier Smile? New patients welcome, direct billing and 0% financing available. Call us at (403) 244-1124 or book online.