Root Canals

Root Canals in Courtenay & the Comox Valley

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Say Goodbye to Tooth Pain with Gentle Root Canal Therapy

When tooth pain strikes, it can affect everything—from eating and speaking to getting a good night’s sleep. At Riverway Dental, our root canal treatments are designed to eliminate pain, preserve your natural teeth, and restore full function, comfortably and efficiently. With sedation options available, you can relax knowing you’re in caring, experienced hands.

Diagnosis &
Imaging

We use digital X-rays and 3D imaging to assess the tooth and confirm the presence of infection or inflammation within the pulp.

Local Anesthesia & Sedation

To keep you completely comfortable, we numb the area and offer sedation options based on your needs and anxiety levels.

Pulp Removal & Canal Cleaning

Using precise instruments, we remove the infected pulp, disinfect the inner chamber, and shape the root canals for filling.

Sealing &
Protection

We fill the cleaned canals with a biocompatible material and seal the tooth. In many cases, a crown is placed to restore full strength and appearance.

Why Is a Root Canal Needed?

A root canal becomes necessary when the soft inner pulp of a tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to:

  • Deep decay or large cavities
  • Cracked or chipped teeth
  • Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
  • Traumatic injury—even without visible cracks

If left untreated, infected pulp can lead to abscesses, swelling, and even bone loss. A root canal allows us to save the natural tooth, eliminate infection, and prevent the need for extraction.

Are You an Ideal Candidate for a Root Canal?

You may benefit from root canal therapy if you experience:

  • Persistent tooth pain or throbbing
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
  • Swollen gums or a pimple-like bump near the tooth
  • Deep decay or damage visible on X-rays

Even if you’re not in pain yet, early diagnosis can prevent further complications. Our team will perform a thorough assessment to determine the best treatment for your tooth.

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Nervous about your root canal procedure?

Sedation Dentistry is Available

Oral Sedation

  • Pill-based anxiety relief (e.g., diazepam, triazolam) taken before your appointment
  • Helps you stay relaxed and may limit memory of the procedure

Nitrous Oxide

  • Fast-acting, inhaled gas that eases tension
  • Wears off within minutes, allowing for quick recovery

IV Sedation

  • Delivered intravenously for deeper relaxation—ideal for longer or multiple procedures
  • You may sleep through the appointment with no recollection of surgery

Root Canal FAQs

No, local anesthesia and sedation options make the procedure virtually painless. Most patients are surprised by how comfortable it feels.

Typically, a root canal is completed in 60–90 minutes. More complex cases may require two visits.

You may experience mild tenderness for a day or two, which is easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief. A crown is often placed later to protect the tooth long-term.

Re-infection is rare when the procedure is done correctly and followed by a crown. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular check-ups is key.

The main alternative is extraction. However, saving your natural tooth helps maintain your bite, jaw health, and overall function, making root canals the preferred option whenever possible.