Root canal therapy is a dental procedure used to treat infection or inflammation inside a tooth when the inner pulp becomes damaged due to deep decay, trauma, or repeated dental procedures. During treatment, the infected pulp is removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected, and the space is sealed to prevent reinfection. This allows patients to keep their natural tooth instead of removing it. At Green Dental in Markham, Dr. Afshin Riazi performs root canal therapy to eliminate pain while preserving long-term tooth function.

Common signs include:

• Persistent tooth pain or pressure
• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
• Swelling or tenderness in the gums
• Tooth discoloration
• Pain when chewing or biting

A dental examination and imaging help confirm whether the tooth pulp is infected and requires treatment.

Modern root canal therapy is generally no more uncomfortable than getting a dental filling. Local anesthesia keeps the area numb during the procedure, and most patients feel pressure rather than pain. Mild soreness afterward is normal and usually temporary.

Most root canal treatments take about 60–90 minutes, depending on the tooth and number of canals. Front teeth may be completed faster, while molars with multiple roots may require more time or an additional visit.

Most patients return to normal activities within a few days, and overall recovery typically occurs within less than one week. Mild sensitivity may remain temporarily while surrounding tissues heal.

After the infection is removed:

1. A temporary filling is placed
2. The tooth is later restored with a permanent filling or crown
3. The crown protects the tooth from fracture and restores chewing strength

A properly restored tooth can function normally for many years.

When properly restored and maintained, a root-canal-treated tooth can last 10–20 years or even a lifetime, especially when protected with a crown and supported by good oral hygiene.

Patients should:

• Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until fully restored
• Eat soft foods initially
• Maintain gentle oral hygiene
• Follow medication and aftercare instructions

These steps help prevent complications during healing.

Although success rates are high, retreatment may occasionally be needed if:

• Hidden canals were not fully cleaned
• New decay develops
• The tooth cracks or becomes reinfected

Regular dental checkups help detect problems early.

In most cases, saving the natural tooth with a root canal is preferred. Preserving natural teeth helps maintain proper bite alignment, jaw health, and chewing efficiency. Tooth extraction may require replacement options such as implants or bridges.

Often yes — especially for back teeth. A crown strengthens the treated tooth and significantly improves long-term survival by protecting it from fracture during chewing.

Patients choose Green Dental because treatment focuses on comfort, precision, and tooth preservation. Dr. Afshin Riazi uses modern diagnostic techniques and careful treatment planning to remove infection, relieve pain, and restore long-term oral health while keeping your natural smile intact.