Signs you may need a root canal
- Severe or lingering toothache, especially when chewing
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swelling or tenderness in the nearby gums
- A darkened or discolored tooth
- A pimple-like bump on the gums
Sometimes an infected tooth causes no symptoms at all, which is one more reason regular checkups matter. If you are in pain, call us for a same-day emergency visit.
What happens during a root canal
After the tooth is completely numb, we gently remove the inflamed or infected pulp from inside the tooth, clean and disinfect the canals, and seal them to prevent reinfection. Most root canals are completed in one or two visits.
Protecting the tooth afterward
Because a tooth that has had a root canal can become more brittle, we often recommend a crown to protect it and restore full chewing strength. With proper care, a treated tooth can last a lifetime.
Why save your natural tooth?
Keeping your own tooth helps maintain your bite, prevents neighboring teeth from shifting and is often less costly over time than extraction and replacement. When it makes sense, our goal is always to save the tooth.
Frequently asked questions
Is a root canal painful?
With modern anesthesia, most patients feel little more than they would during a filling. The procedure is designed to relieve the pain caused by the infection.
How long is recovery after a root canal?
Most people return to normal activities the same or next day. Some tenderness for a few days is normal and usually eased with over-the-counter pain relievers.
What happens if I don’t treat an infected tooth?
An untreated infection can spread, cause an abscess and lead to losing the tooth. Treating it early is the best way to protect your health and your smile.