Root Canal in Santa Clara: What to Expect

Quick answer: a root canal removes the infected or inflamed tissue from inside a tooth, relieves the pain, and lets you keep your natural tooth. At Smiles for Life in Santa Clara the tooth is fully numbed, so the visit feels much like a filling. Most root canals take one or two visits, and the tooth is then protected with a crown.

The words “root canal” make a lot of people nervous, usually because of stories from decades ago. Modern root canal treatment is very different. Here is exactly what happens, so you know what to expect.

Why a tooth needs a root canal

Inside every tooth is a soft center called the pulp, which holds nerves and blood vessels. When deep decay, a crack or an old large filling lets bacteria reach the pulp, it becomes infected or inflamed. That is what causes the throbbing pain and sensitivity. A root canal cleans out that infected tissue so the tooth can stay in place instead of being pulled. Learn more about our root canal therapy.

Signs you may need one

• Lingering pain after something hot or cold
• Pain when you bite or put pressure on the tooth
• A pimple-like bump on the gum near the tooth
• Swelling or tenderness in the gum or face
• A tooth that has darkened compared with its neighbors

Sometimes there are no symptoms at all and the problem is spotted on a routine X-ray. If you have sudden severe pain or swelling, that is a dental emergency — call us right away.

Step by step: your root canal visit

1. Numbing and an X-ray

We take an X-ray to see the tooth and its roots, then fully numb the area. You should feel pressure but not pain. If you are anxious, tell us — we go at your pace.

2. Cleaning the inside of the tooth

A small opening is made in the top of the tooth, the infected pulp is removed, and the inside canals are cleaned and shaped. This is the part that relieves the pressure and the ache.

3. Sealing the tooth

The cleaned canals are filled and sealed to keep bacteria out. A temporary or build-up filling closes the opening.

4. A crown to protect it

A tooth that has had a root canal becomes more brittle, so it usually needs a crown to protect it from cracking. We fit the crown at a follow-up visit.

Recovery

Most people go back to their day right away. The tooth can feel tender for a few days, which over-the-counter pain relief handles well. Chew on the other side until the permanent crown is on. A tooth treated and crowned properly can last for many years.

What affects the cost

The cost of a root canal depends on which tooth it is — front teeth have one canal and molars have several — and on the crown the tooth needs afterward. Most PPO dental plans help cover root canal treatment and crowns. Our team verifies your benefits and explains your portion before we begin. Worried a previous root canal is acting up? Read can a root canal fail?

Frequently Asked Questions