A root canal can sound worrying, but for many people it is the step that lets them keep a natural tooth instead of losing it. At Oasis Smile Dental in NE Calgary, your dentist examines the tooth, explains whether a root canal suits your case and gives you a detailed estimate first. Call 587.353.9393 to book a visit.
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What is a root canal?
Inside every tooth is a soft centre called the pulp, which holds nerves and blood vessels. When deep decay, a crack or an injury lets bacteria reach the pulp, it can become inflamed or infected. Root canal treatment removes the damaged pulp, cleans the inside of the tooth and seals it, so the outer tooth can stay in your mouth.
Signs you may need a root canal
Only an exam can confirm what is wrong, but these signs are worth acting on:
- A lasting toothache, especially one that wakes you at night
- Pain when you bite down
- A swollen or tender gum near one tooth, or a small bump that comes and goes
- A deep cavity or a cracked tooth
What to expect at your appointment
Your visit starts with a conversation and an exam, followed by digital imaging so your dentist can see the shape of the tooth and the surrounding bone.
- Exam and imaging to confirm the cause of your pain.
- A discussion of your options, comfort choices and cost.
- Treatment of the tooth, with each step explained as it happens.
- Instructions for pain management and healing to follow at home.
- A plan for restoring the tooth afterwards, often with a filling or a crown.
Whether treatment can be finished in one visit depends on your tooth and your case. We tell you what to expect before we begin.
Root canal or extraction? Comparing your options
When a tooth is badly damaged, the choice is usually between saving it and removing it. Your dentist will tell you which fits your situation.
| Root canal | Extraction | |
|---|---|---|
| Goal | Keep your natural tooth | Remove a tooth that cannot be saved |
| Suited to | Enough healthy tooth remains to support it | The tooth is too damaged or is affecting your health |
| Afterwards | Tooth is restored, often with a filling or crown | You may want to replace the gap with an implant or a bridge |
If extraction is the better choice, see our page on tooth and wisdom tooth extraction.
Comfort and aftercare
Your dentist explains each step, talks through comfort choices at your visit, and we offer sedation options for patients who feel anxious.
Afterwards, you may notice some tenderness for a few days. Follow the written instructions we give you, avoid chewing hard foods on that tooth until it is restored, and call us if anything feels worse instead of better.
Root canal cost and insurance in NE Calgary
The cost of a root canal depends on the tooth and on what your case needs. We follow the ADA Fee Guide, give you a detailed estimate before any work begins and direct bill most insurance plans. Staff file your claims for you and help you get the most from your benefits. We also accept CDCP, and offer 0% financing and flexible payment options.
In pain? An emergency exam is $50, and same-day appointments are available. Call 587.353.9393, or read about our emergency dental care and wider Urgent Dental Care services.
Why choose Oasis Smile Dental for a root canal in NE Calgary
Our clinic at 3565 20 Ave NE #110 serves patients from across Northeast Calgary, including Pineridge, Rundle, Marlborough, Whitehorn, Temple, Falconridge, Taradale, Martindale, Saddle Ridge, Monterey Park and Abbeydale. We are open seven days a week, 9 AM to 8 PM, and our approach is gentle and judgment-free.
Kind Words From Our Patients
Read our Google reviewsBest experience I could have asked for. The doctor who removed my two bottom wisdom teeth was an angel and talked me through the whole procedure to ease my nerves.
Oasis Dental NE has always provided me with great dental care while saving me money at the same time. Their priority is your dental well-being.
Highly recommend Dr. Dee and his team. Very knowledgeable and trustworthy dentist who really cares about his patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a root canal worth it, or should I just pull the tooth?
If enough healthy tooth remains, keeping your own tooth can help you chew comfortably and avoids a gap. Extraction is sometimes the better choice. Your dentist reviews your imaging and explains both before you decide.
How long does a root canal take?
It depends on the tooth and how complex the case is. Some are completed in one visit and others need more than one. We give you a clear idea of the timeline after your exam.
Will I feel pain during treatment?
Your dentist discusses comfort options before starting and explains each step. Tell us if you feel anything uncomfortable and we will adjust. Sedation options are available for anxious patients.
What happens if I put off a root canal?
An infected tooth may not heal on its own, and the infection can spread or cause swelling. The tooth may also become harder to save. If you have pain or swelling, call 587.353.9393 so we can see you.
Does insurance pay for a root canal?
Coverage depends on your plan and your benefits. We direct bill most insurance plans, accept CDCP and help you understand your coverage before treatment starts.
Book a Root Canal Consultation in NE Calgary
If a tooth is hurting, a prompt exam gives you the most options. Call us or send a message and we will find a time.
Our hours, seven days a week:
- Monday: 9 AM to 8 PM
- Tuesday: 9 AM to 8 PM
- Wednesday: 9 AM to 8 PM
- Thursday: 9 AM to 8 PM
- Friday: 9 AM to 8 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM to 8 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM to 8 PM
Oasis Smile Dental, 3565 20 Ave NE #110, Calgary, AB T1Y 0B9. Phone: 587.353.9393.