Few dental phrases trigger as much dread as "root canal." The reputation, though, is decades out of date. Modern techniques make root canal therapy about as uncomfortable as a standard filling — and the alternative (losing the tooth) is far worse.

When Do You Need a Root Canal?

The nerve inside a tooth can become infected due to deep decay, a crack, or trauma. Warning signs include severe pain when chewing, lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, swollen gums near the tooth, and darkening of the tooth itself. Left untreated, the infection spreads and the tooth will need extraction.

What Actually Happens During Treatment?

After numbing the area with local anesthetic, the dentist opens a small access point in the tooth, removes the infected pulp, cleans and shapes the canals, and fills them with a biocompatible material. The visit typically takes 60–90 minutes. Most patients describe it as surprisingly uneventful.

Pain and Recovery

Modern anesthetics ensure you feel nothing during treatment. Mild soreness for 24–48 hours after is normal and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. Most patients return to work the same day and to normal chewing within a few days.

The Crown That Comes Next

Because a root canal removes the tooth's internal support, the tooth becomes more brittle. A permanent crown is usually placed 2–3 weeks later to restore strength and protect against future fracture. Without a crown, the tooth is more likely to crack over time.

Root Canal vs. Extraction

Saving your natural tooth is almost always the better choice. Extracting and replacing a tooth with an implant costs more, takes longer, and — even with the best materials — never quite matches the performance of the tooth you were born with. Root canals have a 95% success rate and can last a lifetime.

Suspect you need a root canal? The sooner we see you, the simpler the treatment. Book an evaluation today and skip weeks of unnecessary pain.

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By Dr. Michael Reyes · May 1, 2026 · Endodontics