Root Canals Myths and Facts A Canadian Guide
Root canals save infected teeth and stop pain. Still, old myths scare people away. This practical Canadian guide explains what really happens, who does the treatment, how it feels, signs you may need one, and what recovery looks like.
What is a root canal and will it hurt?
A root canal removes infected pulp, disinfects the canals, and seals the tooth so you can keep it. With local anesthesia, the area is numb. Most patients feel pressure, not pain, and get relief from the toothache that started everything.
What a root canal actually is
Inside every tooth is soft tissue called the pulp (nerves and blood vessels). When deep decay, a crack, or a past injury lets bacteria in, the pulp can become inflamed or infected. A root canal cleans this space, shapes it for filling, and seals it so bacteria cannot return. After the canals are sealed, the tooth is restored. Back teeth usually need a crown to protect them from fracture.
Root canal myths and the real facts
Let’s clear up the most common stories you might hear from friends, older relatives, or the internet.
Myth 1 Pain during a root canal is worse than the toothache
Fact Modern local anesthesia and gentle techniques make the procedure feel similar to getting a filling. Most people are surprised by how routine it feels. The goal is to stop the pain you came in with, not cause more.
Myth 2 Root canals cause illness in the body
Fact There’s no reliable evidence that a properly performed root canal causes disease elsewhere. The treatment removes infection, reduces inflammation, and helps protect your overall health by keeping bacteria under control.
Myth 3 Extraction is better than saving the tooth
Fact Keeping your natural tooth helps maintain chewing, jawbone support, and tooth alignment. An extraction often leads to a replacement such as an implant or bridge, which can be more costly and take more time.
Myth 4 Root canals always take many visits
Fact Many cases are finished in one visit. Complex roots or serious infections may need a second appointment so the tooth can fully heal before final sealing.
Myth 5 Root canal teeth do not last
Fact With a quality root canal, a proper restoration, and good home care, success rates commonly reach 90–95%. Teeth treated and crowned can last many years, often decades.
For a deeper dive into common misconceptions, see common root canal myths for clear, bite-sized explanations you can share with family.
“Root canal treatment doesn’t cause pain; it relieves it.” — American Association of Endodontists
How Canadian endodontists diagnose and plan treatment
Endodontists are dentists who specialize in root canals. They complete extra training to manage complex roots, curved canals, and stubborn infections. Your assessment usually includes:
- Medical and dental history, including past tooth injuries
- Clinical tests for biting pain and temperature sensitivity
- Dental X-rays, and sometimes 3D imaging, to map the roots
- Pulp and percussion tests to confirm which tooth is the problem
Specialists often use advanced tools and high magnification for accuracy. This improves cleaning, reduces missed canals, and supports long-term success.
Root canal steps from start to finish
While every tooth is unique, most treatments follow this simple path:
- Numbing the area with local anesthesia
- Placing a small protective sheet called a rubber dam to keep the tooth dry
- Creating a tiny opening to reach the infected pulp
- Gently removing the pulp and shaping the canals
- Disinfecting the inside of the tooth
- Filling and sealing the canals with a safe material
- Placing a temporary or permanent filling; many teeth later receive a crown
Why specialist care can help
Endodontists use dental operating microscopes for magnified vision of tiny canals and hidden anatomy. Seeing more means cleaning more completely and sealing more precisely, which helps lower the risk of retreatment. If you’re curious about this technology, explore microscope-assisted root canal therapy and how magnification improves outcomes.
Signs you may need a root canal
Contact a dentist or endodontist if you notice:
- Severe or lingering toothache, especially after hot or cold
- Pain when chewing or touching the tooth
- Swelling in the gum near the tooth or a pimple-like bump
- Tooth darkening or a change in colour
- A cracked tooth after biting something hard
These symptoms suggest the pulp may be inflamed or infected. Quick care can save the tooth and prevent the infection from spreading.
What to expect after treatment
It’s normal to feel a little tender for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen usually help. Avoid chewing hard foods on that side until the permanent restoration or crown is placed. If your dentist used only local anesthesia, most people can drive themselves home. If you had sedation, follow your sedation instructions and arrange a ride.
Call your clinic if pain worsens after a few days, if the bite feels high, or if swelling increases. These are fixable issues, and early follow-up helps you heal faster.
Success rates and longevity
Root canals are highly successful when paired with a quality final restoration. In many studies, success rates are about 90–95%. A crown protects the tooth from cracking under chewing forces, especially in molars. Good brushing, daily flossing, and regular checkups keep the restored tooth healthy for the long term.
Myths vs facts recap
The most important truth is simple. Root canals are designed to remove infection, relieve pain, and save your natural tooth. If you still feel unsure, you can review a clear summary of the evidence in root canal myths debunked and talk through your questions with your dentist.
Conclusion
Don’t let myths push you toward an extraction you might not need. In Canada, endodontists and general dentists use modern anesthesia, precise imaging, and advanced tools to treat infected teeth gently and predictably. If you have strong or lingering pain, temperature sensitivity, gum swelling, or tooth darkening, book an exam soon. Early treatment saves teeth, reduces cost, and gets you back to eating and smiling with confidence.
FAQ
How long does a root canal take?
Most appointments take 60–90 minutes. A simple case may be one visit. Complex roots or significant infection can require a second visit to give the tooth time to calm before final sealing.
Will my dental insurance in Canada cover it?
Coverage varies by plan. Root canals are often listed under basic or major restorative services. Ask your clinic for a cost estimate and a pre-determination if your plan allows it. They can also explain options for crowns.
Can I drive after a root canal?
If you had only local anesthesia, driving is usually fine. If you received sedation, you’ll need an adult to drive you and stay with you as instructed by the dental team.
Will I need a crown afterward?
Often yes, especially for back teeth that absorb heavy chewing forces. A crown protects the tooth from fracture and helps the root canal last longer. Your dentist will tell you the best timing.
What if a root canal fails?
Options include retreatment (a second root canal) or a small surgery at the tip of the root. Your dentist or endodontist will review X-rays, your symptoms, and your goals to choose the safest path forward. Success rates remain high.
Are root canals painful?
With modern local anesthesia, most patients feel only pressure. The procedure is designed to stop the severe pain of infection. If you’re still worried, review the facts about comfort and safety in common root canal myths and ask your dentist about comfort options.
