If you’re searching online for “burnaby dentist” or “high gate dentist” because of tooth pain or you heard you might need a root canal, you’re not alone. At Burnaby South Dental, right in the High Gate area, we help many people each month who have questions and worries about root canals.
The words root canal can sound scary to many patients. But in reality, this treatment is one of the best ways to save your natural tooth and avoid extraction. In this blog post, we’ll explain in simple, clear terms what a root canal is, when you need it, what happens during the procedure, and why choosing a high gate dental clinic like ours makes the process so much easier.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that treats the inside of your tooth when it becomes infected or inflamed. The inner part of the tooth, called the pulp, can get infected because of deep decay, cracks, repeated dental work, or trauma.
If you don’t treat an infected pulp, the pain can get worse and even spread to your jaw or other teeth. Eventually, you might lose the tooth completely. The root canal procedure cleans out the infection, removes the pulp, and seals the tooth so you can keep it for many years.
At Burnaby South Dental, your Burnaby south dentist will always try to save your natural teeth when possible. That’s why root canals are so valuable.
Why Would I Need a Root Canal?
There are a few common signs that you might need a root canal:
- Persistent toothache, especially when chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
- Swollen gums near the tooth
- A pimple-like bump on the gums
- Darkening of the tooth
If you have these symptoms, it doesn’t always mean you definitely need a root canal, but it’s smart to visit a “dentist near me” or your High Gate dentist to check.
Many people ignore these signs hoping they’ll go away. Unfortunately, dental infections rarely just “get better” on their own. Delaying treatment can make it worse and more expensive. At our High Gate dental clinic, we focus on early detection and gentle care to keep things simple for you.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
One of the biggest myths about root canals is that they’re super painful. Decades ago, that might have been true, but today they’re no worse than getting a regular filling.
Here’s a simple step-by-step of what happens at Burnaby South Dental:
- Numbing the area – We make sure you’re comfortable and can’t feel pain.
- Creating a small opening – Your Burnaby dentist makes a tiny hole to access the pulp.
- Cleaning and shaping – We carefully remove the infected pulp and clean the canals.
- Filling and sealing – The canals are filled with a safe material to prevent future infection.
- Restoring the tooth – Often, a crown is placed to protect and strengthen the tooth.
Most root canals take one or two visits. Patients often tell us they feel relief right away because the infection is gone.
Is a Root Canal Better Than an Extraction?
We get this question a lot. In most cases, saving your natural tooth is better than removing it. Here’s why:
- Natural teeth are stronger than replacements
- Your bite stays normal
- Nearby teeth don’t shift
- You avoid needing bridges or implants
At Burnaby South Dental, your Burnaby south dentist will always explain your options. But usually, if a tooth can be saved with a root canal, that’s the best path forward.
How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?
Cost is always a concern for patients, especially families in the High Gate area looking for an affordable dentist near me. The price depends on which tooth needs treatment and how complex the procedure is. Molars, for example, have more canals and can cost more.
Many insurance plans cover part of the cost. We’re happy to give estimates and help you check your coverage. At Burnaby South Dental, we believe clear, upfront pricing is part of good care.
Why Choose Burnaby South Dental for Root Canals?
If you’re looking for a High Gate dental clinic that puts patients first, we’d love to see you. Here’s what sets us apart:
✅ Friendly, caring team that listens
✅ Modern technology for accurate diagnosis
✅ Gentle numbing techniques for comfort
✅ Clear communication about costs and options
✅ Convenient location in the High Gate area
We know seeing the dentist can be stressful. That’s why we focus on calm, supportive care. From your first phone call to the final appointment, we want you to feel welcome and heard.
Root Canal Aftercare: What to Expect
After a root canal, most people feel better quickly. You might have mild soreness for a day or two, similar to after a filling. We’ll give you instructions on:
- Eating softer foods at first
- Taking over-the-counter pain relief if needed
- Brushing and flossing carefully
It’s important to come back for your crown if your Burnaby dentist recommends it. The crown helps protect the tooth for the long term.
Don’t Wait – Book Your Consultation Today
If you have tooth pain, don’t put it off. The sooner you see a Burnaby dentist or High Gate dentist, the better your chances of saving the tooth. Even if you’re not sure you need a root canal, we’ll do a thorough exam and explain what’s going on.
Call us at Burnaby South Dental, your trusted Burnaby south dentist in the High Gate area, and let us help you get back to smiling without pain. We’re your local “dentist near me” that cares about your health, comfort, and peace of mind.
