General Dental Services

Root Canal Therapy in London, Ontario

Severe tooth pain, lingering sensitivity, or swelling around a tooth can sometimes indicate a problem deep inside the tooth structure. At Wortley Road Dental, we provide root canal therapy in London, Ontario, to help remove infection, relieve discomfort, and preserve natural teeth whenever possible.

Modern root canal treatment is designed to clean and seal the inside of an infected tooth while helping patients avoid extraction. Whether you have been told you may need a root canal or are experiencing painful symptoms, our team can assess the tooth and explain your treatment options clearly. Call us at (519) 672-4310 to learn more.

What Is Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy is a dental procedure used to treat infection or inflammation inside the tooth. The inside of each tooth contains soft tissue called pulp, which includes nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When bacteria enter this area through deep decay, cracks, trauma, or repeated dental procedures, the pulp can become infected or damaged.

During root canal treatment, the infected pulp is removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected, and the canals are sealed to help prevent reinfection. In many cases, the tooth is later restored with a dental crown to improve long-term strength and protection. Root canal therapy is intended to save the natural tooth whenever possible rather than removing it.

Why Root Canal Treatment May Be Needed

Root canal therapy is commonly recommended when bacteria or damage reach the inner pulp of the tooth. This may happen because of:

• Deep cavities
• Untreated tooth decay
• Cracked or broken teeth
• Trauma or injury
• Repeated dental work on the same tooth
• Large failing fillings
• Severe enamel wear

Without treatment, the infection can worsen and potentially lead to abscesses, swelling, bone loss, or tooth loss. Patients with untreated cavities or fractured teeth may eventually require root canal treatment if the decay or damage extends to the pulp.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Some infected teeth cause severe symptoms, while others develop more gradually. Common root canal symptoms may include:

• Persistent toothache
• Throbbing pain
• Pain when chewing
• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
• Swelling near the tooth
• A pimple-like bump on the gums
• Tooth discoloration
• Tenderness around the tooth
• Pressure when biting down

Dental organizations note that infected teeth do not always cause constant pain, which is one reason proper evaluation and X-rays are important. If you are experiencing facial swelling, fever, or severe pain, prompt dental evaluation is vital.

Root Canal Therapy vs. Tooth Extraction

When a tooth becomes infected, patients often wonder whether it is better to save the tooth or remove it.

Root canal therapy may be preferred because it:

• Preserves your natural tooth
• Helps maintain chewing function
• Keeps neighboring teeth from shifting
• Avoids the need for replacement procedures
• Maintains natural bite alignment

Tooth extraction may sometimes be necessary if:

• The tooth cannot be restored predictably
• There is severe structural damage
• The crack extends below the gumline
• Bone support is inadequate

If a tooth cannot be saved, replacement options may include bridges, dentures, or dental implants.

Is Root Canal Therapy Right for You?

• You have an infected or abscessed tooth
• A tooth is causing severe pain
• Sensitivity lingers after hot or cold exposure
• Deep decay has reached the pulp
• A crack extends into the inner tooth structure
• Swelling or infection is present
• A tooth has darkened after trauma

A dental exam and X-rays help determine whether the tooth can be treated successfully with root canal therapy or whether another approach is more appropriate.

Call (519) 672-4310 to book your appointment, or schedule your visit online.

Our Clinic

Wortley Road Dental

Follow Us!

Keep in Touch