"Root canal" has a reputation it doesn't really deserve anymore. With modern anesthesia and technique, the procedure itself is designed to relieve pain — not cause it — by treating the infected or inflamed tissue inside your tooth.
The goal is always to save your natural tooth whenever possible, rather than move straight to an extraction.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
- Sharp or throbbing tooth pain, especially when chewing
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold that doesn't fade quickly
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums near a specific tooth
- A tooth that's darkened or discolored
- A small bump on the gum that looks like a pimple
What to Expect
Exam & X-Ray
We confirm the diagnosis and check the shape of the tooth's root canals.
Local Anesthesia
The area is fully numbed before we begin — most patients feel no more discomfort than a routine filling.
Removing the Infected Pulp
The inflamed or infected tissue inside the tooth is carefully removed and the canal is cleaned and shaped.
Sealing & Crown
The canal is sealed, and in most cases a crown is placed afterward to protect and strengthen the tooth long-term.
Frequently asked questions
Is a root canal painful?
With today's anesthesia, most patients report the procedure feels similar to getting a filling. Any discomfort typically comes from the infection itself — the treatment is what relieves it.
How long does a root canal take?
Most root canals are completed in one to two appointments, depending on the tooth and the extent of infection.
Root canal vs. extraction — which is better?
Saving your natural tooth with a root canal is usually preferable when possible, since it preserves your bite and avoids the need for a bridge or implant later. We'll walk you through the trade-offs for your specific situation.
Ready to schedule, or have questions about root canals?
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