Signs you might need a root canal
- Pain when chewing, or a toothache that wakes you up
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the food or drink is gone
- Swollen, tender gums or a pimple-like bump near a tooth
- A tooth that has darkened after an injury
Some infected teeth cause no symptoms and are found on X-rays during a routine exam.
What treatment is like
With modern anesthesia, a root canal usually feels much like getting a filling. Afterward, a back tooth typically needs a crown to protect it from breaking. If your case is complex, we'll refer you to a trusted endodontist (root canal specialist) when that's best for you.
What to expect at your visit
- Exam and X-ray to confirm the diagnosis.
- Numbing and isolation of the tooth.
- Cleaning, shaping and sealing the root canals.
- A filling, and usually a crown at a follow-up visit.
Common questions
Is a root canal painful?
The procedure is done with local anesthesia and usually feels like a long filling. It relieves the pain caused by the infection. Mild soreness for a few days afterward is normal.
Is it better to just pull the tooth?
Keeping your natural tooth is usually best for chewing and for the health of nearby teeth. Extraction then requires a bridge or implant to fill the space.
How many visits does a root canal take?
Many root canals are finished in one or two visits, plus a crown appointment afterward.