How do I know if I need a root canal?

Getting an X-ray during your next dental appointment can confirm whether you need a root canal. Pain in one tooth whenever you bite or chew could be a sign that you need one.

What are the signs that an infected tooth may need a root canal?

Common signs that an infected tooth may need a root canal include: Pain in one tooth when chewing or biting A tooth that is sensitive to hot or cold Swollen or tender gums near the tooth A tooth that appears dark or discolored A sore on the gums that doesn’t go away If you notice any of these signs, it's time to schedule a dental exam.

Most patients feel relief after a root canal since it stops the pain caused by the infection. The procedure is similar to getting a filling. Your dentist will numb the area to keep you comfortable throughout the visit.

When does an infected tooth become an emergency appointment?

A dental infection becomes an emergency appointment if the pain is severe or if swelling spreads beyond the tooth. In these cases, contact us at (800) 579-3783 as soon as possible. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911.

What is an endodontist?

An endodontist is a dentist who specializes in treating the inside of the tooth. If you need a root canal at Western Dental, a board-certified endodontist will diagnose the problem and perform the procedure.

Home Dental services Surgery & restoration Root canals

Root canals

A root canal treats deep decay or infection inside the tooth,
helping relieve pain and prevent tooth loss.

Book an appointment

How does a root canal work?

A root canal is a dental procedure that removes infection and restores the tooth from the inside. Here’s what to expect.

First visit:
Removing the infection

We start by numbing the area. Then we remove the diseased root, clean up the infection, and place a temporary filling.

Healing between
visits

You’ll wait 1-3 weeks to allow the tooth to heal. Your dentist may take X-rays to confirm that the infection is fully gone.

Second visit:
Sealing the tooth

Once healing is confirmed, we’ll place a permanent filling or crown to seal and protect the tooth for the long term.

Need urgent dental care?

Severe tooth pain or signs of a spreading infection could mean it’s time for urgent care. If you’re in pain, don’t wait. Same-day emergency appointments are often available.

Get emergency dental care

Flexible payment
options for everyone

We accept most insurance plans, including Medi-Cal and Medicaid, and offer financing options to fit your budget. Whether you’re insured or not, we’ll help find a solution that works for you.

Explore insurance & financing

*Not valid for patients with dental benefit insurance or coverage, regardless of whether such coverage is provided by a Western Dental plan or discount program coverage, or coverage by health or dental insurance or any government program, including Medicaid / Medi-Cal / Denti-Cal. The regular price for these procedures in California is $378. This offer is valid for new patients until 12/31/25 for exam, X-rays & consultation only. X-rays do not include panoramic or cephalometric images. This offer cannot be combined with any other offer. Diagnosis may result in treatment at an additional cost to the patient. No purchase obligation required.

Hear what’s making our patients smile

I was nervous about my root canal, but the team at Western Dental was kind and calming. The procedure was pretty painless, and I feel at ease returning for my next appointment.

Gloria helped transfer my DHMO plan and book fast care for me and my son. The dentist explained everything clearly, and we even got a free orthodontic consultation.

I was so embarrassed to smile before. Rochelle at Western Dental gave me my confidence back. The staff is friendly and made every visit feel comfortable. Thank you!

Root canals