About Root Canal Treatment
Modern root canal therapy is comfortable, effective, and can save your natural tooth for years to come
Save Your Natural Tooth
Root canal therapy is designed to eliminate bacteria from the infected root canal, prevent reinfection, and save the natural tooth. When you undergo a root canal or other endodontic treatment, the inflamed or infected pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected, then filled and sealed.
The Root Canal Process
Our gentle, step-by-step approach ensures your comfort throughout the procedure
Diagnosis & Anesthesia
We begin with a thorough examination and X-rays, then administer local anesthesia to ensure you’re completely comfortable throughout the procedure.
Access Opening
A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals.
Cleaning & Shaping
The infected or damaged pulp is removed, and the root canals are carefully cleaned, disinfected, and shaped.
Filling & Sealing
The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha and sealed to prevent reinfection.
Restoration
A crown or filling is placed to protect and restore the tooth to full function, completing the treatment.
Root Canal FAQs
Answers to common questions about root canal therapy
Modern root canal treatment is no more uncomfortable than having a filling placed. With advanced techniques and anesthesia, most patients report little to no pain during the procedure. Any discomfort afterward can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Most root canals can be completed in one or two appointments, each lasting about 60-90 minutes. The exact time depends on the complexity of the tooth’s anatomy and the extent of infection.
The only alternative is tooth extraction. However, saving your natural tooth through root canal treatment is usually the best option. Extracted teeth should be replaced with an implant, bridge, or removable partial denture to restore chewing function and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting.
With proper care, a tooth that has had root canal treatment can last a lifetime. The key is to have a proper restoration (usually a crown) placed soon after the root canal and to practice good oral hygiene with regular dental checkups.
Common signs include severe toothache when chewing, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, darkening of the tooth, swollen or tender gums, or a persistent pimple on the gums. However, sometimes there are no symptoms, which is why regular dental checkups are important.
Don’t Live With Tooth Pain
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, schedule an evaluation with our root canal specialists today.
Early treatment can save your tooth and prevent more serious problems.