When is a root canal needed?
Treatment is usually needed when a tooth is painful, broken, decayed or infected and the nerve inside can't recover. Common signs include lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, a throbbing toothache, pain when chewing, a darkened tooth, or a small bump on the gum. Sometimes there are no symptoms at all and the problem shows up on an X-ray.
What to expect
The tooth is fully numbed first. We gently remove the infected or inflamed pulp from inside the tooth, clean and shape the root canals, and seal them. Treatment typically takes one to three visits, depending on the number and shape of the tooth's roots. Most patients say it feels much like getting a filling.
Protecting the tooth afterwards
A tooth that has had a root canal is often weaker, especially when there isn't enough tooth structure left above the gumline. That's why it's usually restored with a crown, which protects it from breaking and lets you chew normally again.
Frequently asked questions
Does a root canal hurt?
The procedure is done with the tooth fully numbed, so it should feel similar to a filling. It's the infection beforehand that hurts — treatment relieves that pain.
Is it better to pull the tooth instead?
Keeping your natural tooth is usually best for your bite and your other teeth. If a tooth can't be saved, we'll talk through extraction and replacement options.
Will I need a crown after my root canal?
Usually, yes — especially for back teeth. A crown protects the treated tooth from cracking.