Root Canal Therapy
A root canal treats deep decay or infection inside the tooth,
helping relieve pain and prevent tooth loss.
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.
Affordable payment
options for dental care
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.
Hear what’s making our patients smile
Just came back from getting our braces. Wires done. Had a good time. A lot of explanation by the doctors got to pick out new colors. It’s a good time over here at Western Dental orthodontics.
I’ve had such a beautiful experience here. The ladies at the front desk are always so warm, welcoming, and effortlessly on top of everything—they truly set the tone the moment you walk in. As for my braces journey, the team has been nothing short of amazing. They’re precise, professional, and consistently deliver with care and excellence. I always feel taken care of, and their kindness never goes unnoticed. It’s rare to find a place that combines such high-level service with genuine energy—absolutely love it here. Thank you !
Communication was clear and organized—everything from my current treatment to upcoming appointments was explained in detail, so I always knew what to expect. Additionally, a specialist from the orthodontic section provided me with a free consultation for braces. She was extremely helpful, friendly, and took the time to carefully go over options for improving my smile.
Root canals FAQs
Only your dentist can confirm if you need a root canal, usually with the help of an X-ray. If one tooth is consistently painful, especially when you bite, it’s a good idea to schedule an exam.
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.
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.
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.