Root Canal in Vancouver
Our Dentist in Vancouver, BC performs gentle, effective root canals to relieve pain and save your natural tooth.
Saving your natural tooth
Root canal therapy is a proven way to relieve pain while preserving your natural tooth. During the procedure, the damaged or infected pulp is carefully removed, and the inner space is filled with a medicated dental material that restores strength and function.
By saving the tooth, you help maintain the health of your surrounding bone and gum tissue—preventing further complications and reducing the need for more extensive treatment in the future.
Common Signs You May Need a Root Canal:
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Persistent or severe toothache
- Swollen or red gums near the tooth
- Discolouration of the tooth
- A pimple or abscess on the gums
Prompt treatment can prevent pain from worsening and help preserve your long-term oral health.
The Root Canal Treatment Plan
Root canal therapy is typically completed in one or two visits and is performed by a general dentist or an endodontist, depending on the complexity of your case. Here’s what you can expect:
Diagnosis and Planning
We begin with a detailed exam, including X-rays, to assess the tooth and surrounding bone. If there’s an infection, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to reduce inflammation and swelling—often the main cause of pain during a root canal. Managing this discomfort beforehand makes the procedure smoother and more comfortable.
Preparing the Tooth
Before treatment begins, we gently numb the area to ensure a pain-free experience. Once you're fully comfortable, we create a small opening in the tooth to remove the infected pulp, bacteria, and damaged tissue. Your comfort is our priority throughout the process.
Sealing the Tooth
In some cases, we may place medication inside the tooth to clear any remaining infection. If the procedure spans multiple visits, a temporary filling is applied. Once the tooth is fully cleaned and healed, we seal it permanently—restoring strength and preventing further damage. Most patients feel significant relief by this stage.
Cost of a root canal in Vancouver
While dental costs can vary, root canal therapy is often more cost-effective than replacing a lost tooth. With a typical insurance plan, the average out-of-pocket cost for a root canal is approximately $200 to $500+. Without insurance, treatment generally ranges from $600 to $1,200+, depending on the case.
After a thorough oral exam, we’ll provide you with a personalized quote that you can submit to your insurance provider to determine your actual out-of-pocket expenses.
Why Do Root Canal Costs Vary? Several factors influence the cost of treatment, including:
- The severity of the infection
- The location of the affected tooth (front teeth, premolars, or molars)
- The condition of surrounding teeth and gums
- Any complications requiring additional care or expertise
Because every case is unique, accurate pricing can only be provided after a clinical evaluation. We do not offer quotes over the phone for this reason.
Are There Alternatives to Root Canal Therapy?
Untreated infections or abscesses are serious health risks that can spread quickly and require urgent medical attention. While some may see root canals as a “last resort,” they are actually a highly effective, tooth-saving solution that prevents pain and protects your overall health.
If you’re unsure about having a root canal, we encourage you to reach out. We’ll never proceed without your full understanding and consent, and we’re happy to explore all available treatment options—always with your comfort and peace of mind as our top priority.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes the damage that leads to a root canal?
Root canals are typically needed when the inner pulp of a tooth becomes infected or damaged. This can result from deep decay, trauma, a dead nerve, a loose filling or crown, or a crack or chip in the tooth.
Is a root canal painful?
Thanks to modern techniques and a compassionate approach, root canal therapy is usually no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Our experienced dentists and hygienists use advanced tools and anaesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.
Can I have antibiotics instead of a root canal?
Unfortunately, no. By the time root canal treatment is needed, the tooth pulp is already infected or dying. Antibiotics may reduce symptoms temporarily but cannot remove the infected tissue. A root canal is the safest and most effective way to eliminate the infection and save the tooth.
How long does a root canal treatment take?
Most root canals are completed in one or two visits. A simple case may take 30 to 60 minutes, while more complex treatments—especially on molars—may take up to 90 minutes.
Are root canals covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by provider and plan. After a consultation, we can give you an estimate to submit to your insurer. If cost is a concern, please speak with us—we’re here to help you prioritise your oral health.
Do I need a crown after a root canal?
It depends on the tooth. Molars and premolars, which handle the bulk of chewing, typically require a crown for protection. Front teeth (incisors and canines) may not need one if they remain structurally strong after treatment.
Google Verified Patient Reviews
More Dental Services
Dental Extractions
Having a tooth or teeth removed is a very common procedure that can be performed with very little pain or discomfort.
Dental Implants
An Implant acts like a natural tooth root and is finished off with a restoration such as a dental crown to help restore the function of your teeth, look good and feel natural.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns make up an essential part of restorative dentistry, and can greatly improve the strength, appearance, and longevity of your teeth.
Teeth Cleanings
Regular checkups and cleanings prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Plan your cleaning and checkup every 6 to 8 months to prevent the sudden onset of dental pain and unexpected expenses.
Composite Fillings
Tooth-coloured fillings fill cavities to stop them from getting bigger or permanently damaging your tooth. These white fillings are matched to your natural teeth so they look and feel great.
Dental Bonding
Restore chips and cracked teeth or improve the look of healthy teeth.
Dental Bridges
Restore gaps and replace your tooth or teeth with a custom made dental prosthesis permanently bonded in place.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns make up an essential part of restorative dentistry, and can greatly improve the strength, appearance, and longevity of your teeth.
