Top Root Canal Questions Answered by a Bay Area Endodontist
If you're dealing with persistent tooth pain or have recently been told you might need a root canal, you're not alone. Root canals are a common dental procedure, but they can seem intimidating and full of unknowns for patients. With pain involved and the urgency to fix your tooth, it's normal to have a lot of questions.
I’ve spent years helping patients in the Bay Area regain comfort and confidence in their smiles, and I’m here to address the top questions we get from patients facing a root canal. Knowing what to expect can ease your mind and help you take the next step confidently to relieve your pain.
What exactly is a root canal?
A root canal is a procedure to save a tooth that's badly damaged or infected. Inside your tooth is soft tissue called the pulp, which houses nerves and blood vessels. When that pulp becomes infected—often from deep decay, a cracked tooth, or trauma—it can cause intense pain.
During a root canal, we remove the infected pulp, clean out the inner canals of your tooth, and seal it to prevent further damage. Despite its scary reputation, a root canal is a relief and can save your natural tooth from extraction.
Why do I need a root canal?
If your dentist recommends a root canal, chances are your tooth’s pulp is damaged or infected. You’ll likely experience some of these symptoms:
Persistent, throbbing pain that keeps you up at night
Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
Swelling around the affected area or in your face
A darkened tooth
A small bump (abscess) on your gums
When left untreated, the infection in your tooth can spread, causing more severe pain or even damage to surrounding teeth and bone. You don't want to wait until you're in agony at 2 AM to address this.
Will a root canal hurt?
This is easily the most common question I get. The good news? Root canals don’t live up to their reputation for pain. Modern dentistry has come a long way, and the procedure is typically no more uncomfortable than getting a filling.
We use local anesthesia to ensure you don’t feel pain during the procedure. For especially nervous patients, we even offer sedation options. Most people are surprised by how straightforward and painless the treatment is.
The root canal isn’t the reason you’re hurting—it’s the infection that causes the pain. The procedure actually relieves that pain.
What happens during the procedure?
A root canal usually takes one or two visits. Here’s what you can expect during each step of the process:
Numbing – We’ll use local anesthesia to make sure the area around your tooth is completely numb before starting.
Pulp Removal – After isolating the tooth, I’ll create a small opening in its surface and remove the infected pulp.
Cleaning & Shaping – We’ll clean out the canals inside your tooth thoroughly and shape them for filling.
Sealing – Finally, we’ll fill and seal the canals and top the tooth with a temporary filling or crown.
If you need a permanent crown, your general dentist will place it after the root canal to fully restore your tooth’s function.
How long does the relief take?
Most patients feel significant relief within a day or two as the infection is gone. Your treated tooth might feel a bit sore or tender for a few days, but this is manageable with over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen.
If swelling or pain persists, be sure to call your endodontist right away.
How much will a root canal cost?
Costs can vary depending on which tooth is being treated (front teeth are simpler than molars) and your insurance coverage. On average, root canals range from $700 to $1,500.
While it may seem pricey, remember that saving your natural tooth is priceless. Extracting a tooth and putting in an implant or bridge can be twice as expensive—and comes with its own complications.
Your dental office will help provide a clear breakdown of costs, insurance options, and payment plans if needed.
Can I avoid needing a root canal in the future?
Preventing damage or infection that leads to a root canal is often possible with proper routine care. Here are some tips:
Brush your teeth twice daily and floss regularly.
Avoid eating too many sugary or acidic foods that can lead to decay.
Wear a mouthguard during sports or other activities that could result in trauma to your teeth.
Don’t skip routine dental checkups, as they help catch issues early.
Some cases, like cracked teeth or dental trauma, may be unavoidable. But good oral hygiene and early intervention can minimize your risk.
What should I do if I need a root canal?
If you're experiencing pain or your dentist has recommended a root canal, don’t delay treatment. The longer you wait, the worse your tooth infection can become. Contact a reputable endodontist in your area (like our office if you're in the Bay Area) to schedule your consultation.
We’ll evaluate your tooth, answer all your questions, and provide the relief you need. There’s no need to suffer through tooth pain when help is readily available.
