Yes — and here’s why they play a crucial role in saving your natural teeth.
When you think of restorative dentistry, you might picture fillings, crowns, or bridges. But what about root canals?
While they often have a reputation for being intimidating, root canal treatments are actually one of the most valuable restorative procedures available — helping save teeth that would otherwise need to be extracted.
Let’s explore what restorative dentistry means, how root canals fit in, and why they’re such an important part of your long-term oral health.
🧠 What Is Restorative Dentistry?
Restorative dentistry refers to any dental procedure that repairs or replaces a damaged tooth. The goal is to restore:
- Function (chewing, speaking)
- Structure (tooth shape and alignment)
- Aesthetics (appearance of your smile)
- Comfort and oral health
Common restorative treatments include:
- Fillings
- Dental crowns
- Bridges
- Dentures
- Dental implants
- Root canals
These procedures are often necessary due to decay, trauma, wear and tear, or infection.
🧪 What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal (also known as endodontic therapy) is a procedure that treats the inside of the tooth when the pulp — the soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels — becomes infected or inflamed.
During a root canal:
- The infected pulp is removed
- The inside of the tooth is cleaned, disinfected, and sealed
- A dental crown is typically placed on top to restore strength and protect the tooth
This treatment eliminates pain, saves the natural tooth, and helps you avoid an extraction and more invasive procedures later on.
✅ Why Root Canals Are Considered Restorative
Root canals are restorative because they:
- Preserve your natural tooth structure
- Restore function and bite strength
- Prevent the need for tooth removal
- Support future restorations (like crowns or bridges)
- Allow you to chew and speak normally without discomfort
Instead of extracting the tooth and replacing it with an artificial one, a root canal lets you keep what nature gave you — which is always the best-case scenario when possible.
⚠️ Signs You May Need a Root Canal
- Persistent tooth pain
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
- Swelling or tenderness around the gums
- A darkening or discoloured tooth
- A pimple or abscess near the tooth
Left untreated, an infected tooth can lead to serious complications, including bone loss and the spread of infection to other areas of the body.
🦷 Root Canal + Crown = Full Restoration
In most cases, a tooth that receives a root canal will also need a dental crown. That’s because the tooth becomes more brittle after the pulp is removed, and a crown helps:
- Reinforce strength
- Prevent cracking or breakage
- Restore the natural shape and appearance of the tooth
Together, a root canal and crown form a complete restorative treatment that can last many years — even decades — with proper care.
💰 Is a Root Canal Covered by Insurance?
Yes — root canals are typically classified under basic or major restorative services in most Canadian dental insurance plans. Coverage may range from 50% to 80%, depending on your plan.
Crowns placed after the root canal may be classified separately under major restorative and may require pre-approval, especially if placed on molars or premolars.
Final Thoughts
Yes — root canals are absolutely part of restorative dentistry. They’re a powerful tool for saving natural teeth, preventing more serious issues, and restoring your comfort and oral function.
Think you might need a root canal or want to learn more about your options? Book a consultation today — we’ll examine your tooth, walk you through your treatment choices, and help you protect your smile for years to come.