Root Canal Treatment in Ottawa
Root canal treatment may help save a tooth when its inner pulp becomes inflamed or infected. Ottawa Smiles Family Dental provides root canal assessment and treatment within the scope of general dentistry at our Bank Street clinic.
Persistent tooth pain, lingering sensitivity, swelling, or pain when biting should be assessed promptly. These symptoms can have several causes, so an examination and appropriate diagnostic images are needed before recommending treatment.
Why might a root canal be needed?
The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels inside the tooth. It may become inflamed or infected because of deep decay, a crack, trauma, or repeated dental treatment. Possible signs include:
- Strong or lingering tooth pain
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that does not quickly settle
- Pain when chewing or touching the tooth
- Swelling, a gum bump, or a bad taste
- Darkening of a tooth after injury
Some affected teeth cause few symptoms. Regular examinations can help identify concerns earlier.
What happens during treatment?
- The dentist reviews your symptoms, examines the tooth, and may take X-rays.
- Local anaesthetic is used when appropriate.
- The inflamed or infected pulp is removed and the internal spaces are cleaned.
- The canals are shaped, disinfected, and sealed.
- A final restoration is planned to protect and restore function.
Some teeth require more than one visit. A crown or another restoration may be recommended afterward depending on the tooth and the amount of remaining structure.
Clear options and appropriate referrals
We explain the diagnosis, expected benefits, limitations, alternatives, fees, and follow-up before treatment. Alternatives may include monitoring in limited situations, extraction, or referral, depending on the tooth and your health.
Ottawa Smiles Family Dental is a general dental practice. If the tooth requires care beyond our scope, we will discuss referral to an appropriate dental specialist.
Care is available in English, Arabic, and Spanish. We accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) and work with most insurance plans; coverage and patient charges vary.
Root canal FAQs
Does root canal treatment hurt?
Local anaesthetic is used to support comfort. Tenderness afterward can occur and usually improves, but contact us if pain or swelling is severe or worsening.
Can antibiotics replace a root canal?
Antibiotics do not remove inflamed or infected pulp inside a tooth. They may be prescribed in specific circumstances after an assessment, but definitive dental treatment may still be needed.
How long will the tooth last?
Outcomes vary with the tooth, infection, restoration, bite forces, oral hygiene, and regular care. No treatment can be guaranteed.
When is swelling an emergency?
Call us promptly for dental swelling. If swelling affects breathing or swallowing, or you feel seriously unwell, call 911 or seek hospital emergency care.
Using the Canadian Dental Care Plan
Eligible services may be covered in whole or in part under CDCP rules. Co-payments, additional charges, frequency limits or preauthorization may apply. Read our 2026 CDCP guide and ask about expected costs before treatment.