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Root Canal Treatment

If you are experiencing dental pain or sensitivity, it could be caused by bacteria that has infected the pulp inside a tooth's root canal. Virtually painless root canal therapy performed at Vitacare Dental Centre in Coquitlam, BC, can relieve your discomfort and save your tooth. Learn how our dentists, Alex Wong and Vanessa Lee, screen for signs of infection and treat symptoms. We also offer second opinions.

Experiencing Tooth Pain? Call our Coquitlam dental practice today

Tooth pain can be a sign that you have an infection requiring a root canal. If you have sudden or worsening pain or sensitivity, call our dental office in Coquitlam, BC. We offer flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments. We will do everything we can to see you promptly, ease your pain, and restore your oral health. 

(778) 355-3535

dental waiting room

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental treatment performed to resolve a dental infection. Bacteria can enter a tooth through cracks or cavities and infect the pulp (soft tissue that consists of blood vessels and nerves), which occupies the center of the tooth and its roots. Once the pulp becomes infected, a root canal procedure can be used to remove the pulp, replace it with an inert rubber-like material, and save the healthy exterior of the tooth. In most cases, the treated tooth is crowned for protection. 

What Does Root Canal Treatment Look Like?

Our skilled dentists use the most advanced tools and digital technology at our Coquitlam, BC, dentistry practice to pinpoint the source of your tooth pain, extract harmful bacteria that causes the pulp to become infected from inside the root canal, and protect the affected tooth from further damage. 

What Coquitlam Patients Say About Vitacare Dental Centre

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Marissa Leanne

2022

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I’ve been with Vitacare Dental for several years now and received treatment primarily from Dr. Wong but also Dr. Lee. The care is excellent! Both dentists are attentive and considerate of their patients needs and wishes. I’m very happy I discovered this practice.

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1

Kelli C

2022

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This one is for Dr. Lee and her Amazing team.  I came to Vitacare to give dentists another chance because I shouldn’t write off all dentists because of one previous bad experience (Not Dr. Lee and not this office). Not enough good things can be said about how patient and caring each member in this office is. Each one of them play a pivotal role on whether I will stay or leave. They have tailored each visit to make sure it gives me the least anxiety as possible. It’s been more than a couple visits now and I’m staying.

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Why Get a Root Canal Procedure?

Our compassionate dentists are dedicated to saving your teeth from extraction. If an infection has entered the interior pulp of a tooth through a cavity, crack, or break, root canal treatment can save the tooth from being removed. A root canal can also prevent:

  • The need for costly, involved implant (artificial tooth root) placement
  • A painful abscess that grows at the end of the tooth's root canal
  • Bacteria from eating through the tooth and entering adjacent teeth, your gums, and bloodstream
  • Severe toothaches when you chew or drink hot or cold beverages
  • Painful swelling in the face or gums
  • Dark discoloration of the infected tooth
  • Jaw bone loss at the bottom of the tooth

Remember, not everyone will experience pain or even obvious symptoms. During twice-yearly exams, we will screen for signs of infection to try and catch it early on.

True or False: Root Canal Procedures Really Hurt

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The simple answer is false. Other than the quick pinch of our anesthetic needle, you might not feel any discomfort at all. Many patients say a root canal is no worse than getting a filling. Plus, Drs. Wong and Lee use very gentle advanced methods to diagnose and perform your root canal.

Get the Care You Need to Restore Your Oral Health Request a consultation at our Coquitlam dentistry practice today

The idea of root canal treatment might be overwhelming and possibly a little scary. However, root canals by our dentists are virtually painless, and can provide significant relief. Dr. Wong and Dr. Lee are dentists who provide a wide range of treatments and flexible appointments so you can get the dental care you need to restore your oral health. Our dentistry team in Coquitlam, BC, uses advanced dental technology and techniques to ensure your safety and a beneficial outcome. 

Don't live with dental pain or risk your oral health. To find out if root canal treatment is right for you, call us now:

(778) 355-3535

Vitacare Dental Centre Gets 5-Star Reviews

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Jasmine Mok

2021

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Phenomenal dental office...Vitacare Dental in Como lake has been outstanding in taking care of me. I love that this dental office lives by their goal of making each dental visit as professional, friendly and supportive as possible. Everyone there is super friendly and welcoming, they know what they are doing and I can relax and completely trust them. Thank you so much for making my visits so stress free! I am so thankful to have found you!

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Charlotte Oakley

2021

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Amazing experience, the staff here are very friendly and understanding. Painless anaesthetic, quick and clean work. I have severe claustrophobia and they took their time to accommodate my needs to make me feel comfortable. Beautiful decor, sanitary environment and the most up to date brand new equipment. Will never go anywhere else. Thank you.

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How a Root Canal Is Performed

Bacteria enter the tooth through cracks and cavities and can cause the pulp to become infected. If left untreated, an abscess can form and infection can spread to other parts of the body. Root canal therapy addresses the infection by removing the pulp to preserve the exterior tooth structure and relieve painful symptoms. 
You might feel mild sensitivity or soreness for a few days after the procedure. OTC pain meds like ibuprofen can help. 
You might feel mild sensitivity or soreness for a few days after the procedure. OTC pain meds like ibuprofen can help. 

Initial Consultation

During your initial consultation, your dentist will examine your mouth to determine if a root canal is the right course of treatment for you. They may also perform X-rays for a more comprehensive assessment of your mouth and oral health.

Local Anesthesia

Your dentist begins your root canal by numbing the area. This will ensure you are completely comfortable during treatment. If at any time you feel any discomfort, please let your dentist know immediately. 

Root Canal

Once the area is numb, a specialized tool will make an opening in the top of the tooth. Infected pulp, which consists of nerves, blood vessels, and other tissue, will be safely removed. The interior of the tooth will then be flushed clean and disinfected.

Tooth Sealed

Next, a rubber-like compound will be inserted into the tooth to replace the pulp. The opening in the tooth will then be sealed to prevent further damage.

Dental Crown Placed

A dental crown is placed over the tooth to provide support and protection to the tooth structure. In some cases, we can place the crown the same day as your root canal. 

Recovery

You might feel mild sensitivity or soreness for a few days after the procedure. OTC pain meds like ibuprofen can help. You can brush and floss normally the same day.
Have more questions about the root canal procedure? Learn more by calling our Coquitlam dental practice or by sending us a message. 

Will I Need a Crown After My Root Canal?

Dr. Wong or Lee will likely recommend a high-quality dental crown be placed on the damaged tooth to protect it and fully restore its look and function. A precise digital impression will be made of your teeth and sent to a trusted partner lab. After a couple of weeks, you'll return to our Coquitlam practice to have your customized, permanent crown bonded to your tooth.

Four Reasons to Choose Us for Your Root Canal

We Work with Your Schedule

Root canal pain can strike anytime, so we offer flexible appointments on evenings and weekends.

We Use Advanced Digital Technology

Our practice is fully modern and digital, providing you with the most precise, effective diagnoses and up-to-date treatments possible. 

Visiting Our Office Can Save You Money

Drs. Wong and Lee expertly perform root canals as well as many other dental procedures at affordable rates. This means you and your family do not need to visit an endodontist or other kinds of oral health specialists who may charge a lot more for treatment.

Patients Love Our Luxury Amenities

Our patients love our warm, inviting fireplace, plush, snuggly dental chairs, and complimentary coffee and juice bar. Your kids will really love our gaming stations!

We will always try to save a natural tooth, but if you do require an extraction, we can perform dental implant surgery. Endodontists and other specialists recognize dental implants as the best tooth replacement option.

Does Insurance Cover Root Canal Treatment?

Most insurance plans cover at least part of the cost of root canal treatment. During your initial consultation at our Coquitlam dentistry office, your dentist will develop a treatment plan, and we will verify coverage to determine if you will have any out-of-pocket costs. We pride ourselves on providing comprehensive care at affordable prices, so you can get the dental care you need.

woman covering tooth model with hands

Other Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals

If the tooth is infected, why not just pull it?

It may seem simpler to pull infected teeth, but the first priority for your dentist is always tooth preservation. Even a single missing tooth can cause your jawbone to deteriorate, and a missing tooth could cause other oral health issues, such as shifting teeth. By preserving the tooth structure, we can restore your oral health and eliminate the need for restorations to replace the tooth.

Shouldn't I see an endodontist for a root canal?

Not necessarily. While an endodontist specializes in treating issues affecting dental pulp, Dr. Wong and Dr. Lee have the skills and experience to perform your root canal, as well as many other dentistry treatments. Unlike most endodontists, our dentists also craft and place dental crowns. By seeking care at our Coquitlam dental practice, you can receive comprehensive care in one convenient location.

Hear From More Satisfied Coquitlam Patients 5-Star Reviews

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Shelby Murray

2022

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My whole family (including 2 kids under 5) recently started going to Vitacare and all I can say is they are great! I have never had such good and pain free care. 100% recommend Dr. Lee.

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Nia Draganova

2022

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This dental office always provides a safe, positive , and welcoming environment!! the staff there is very kind and accommodative to all their patients needs, like myself. Going to the dentist has never felt better !!!:)

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Vitacare Dental Centre team

Vitacare Dental Centre

At Vitacare Dental Centre in Coquitlam, we are proud to offer personalized dental treatments in a warm, welcoming environment. Drs. Alex Wong and Vanessa Lee use modern techniques and the latest technology to improve the health and appearance of your smile. We are proudly affiliated with several prestigious organizations including:

  • Canadian Dental Association
  • British Columbia Dental Association
  • College of Dental Surgeons of BC
  • American Academy of Implant Dentistry

For more information about our services, contact our practice online or call (778) 355-3535 today.

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