Root Canal Therapy

Relieve pain, stop infection, and save your tooth.

Root canal therapy is a common and highly effective treatment designed to save teeth that have been damaged by infection or trauma. Inside each tooth is a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. This pulp extends down into narrow passageways called root canals, which reach all the way to the tips of the roots. Most teeth have between one and four of these canals.

When decay or injury allows bacteria to reach the pulp, it can lead to pain, sensitivity, swelling, and infection. Left untreated, the infection may spread beyond the tooth, leading to serious complications such as abscesses or even bone loss. Root canal therapy addresses the problem at the source by removing the infected tissue, cleaning and disinfecting the canal space, and sealing the tooth to prevent future issues.

This treatment has a long-standing reputation for success and is a preferred alternative to tooth extraction. Before root canal therapy became common, the only option for a severely infected tooth was removal.

The Root Canal Procedure

Treatment typically requires one to two visits. During the first visit, the dentist carefully numbs the area and creates a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the infected pulp. The diseased tissue is removed, and the canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected. A rubber-like material is used to fill the canals and seal them off. In most cases, a crown is then placed over the tooth to restore its strength, appearance, and function.

Modern root canal therapy is far more comfortable than many people expect. Most patients experience little to no discomfort during or after the procedure and are relieved to find that their pain is gone once the infection is treated.

Long-Term Results

A tooth that has been treated with root canal therapy and restored with a crown can function normally and last many years—often just as long as a natural, healthy tooth. Good oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and avoiding habits like teeth grinding or chewing on hard objects can help extend the life of the restored tooth.

At Today’s Smile, we focus on gentle, thorough care and use the latest technology to make your experience as efficient and comfortable as possible. If you’re experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, don’t wait—contact us today to schedule an evaluation.