What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal (also called endodontic therapy) is a dental procedure that removes infected or damaged tissue from inside your tooth. Despite common misconceptions, a root canal doesn't cause pain—it relieves it. The treatment eliminates the source of your toothache while allowing you to keep your natural tooth instead of having it extracted.
To understand root canals, it helps to know basic tooth anatomy. Your tooth has several layers:
Tooth Anatomy
- Enamel: The hard, white outer layer that protects your tooth
- Dentin: The layer beneath enamel that provides structure
- Pulp: The soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue
- Root Canals: Channels that extend from the pulp chamber down through the tooth roots
When bacteria penetrate the enamel and dentin (usually through deep decay or cracks), they can infect the pulp. This infection causes inflammation, pressure, and severe pain. A root canal removes the infected pulp, disinfects the interior of the tooth, and seals it to prevent reinfection.
Root Canals Performed Annually in the US
Success Rate
Average Treatment Time
Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
Recognizing the warning signs of pulp infection early can prevent complications and make treatment easier. Contact Best Dental if you experience any of these symptoms:
Severe, Persistent Toothache
The hallmark sign of pulp infection is intense, throbbing pain that doesn't go away. The pain may worsen when you bite down, chew, or apply pressure to the tooth. It can also radiate to your jaw, ear, or other teeth, making it difficult to pinpoint exactly which tooth hurts.
Prolonged Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
While brief sensitivity is normal, lingering discomfort after hot or cold foods and drinks indicates possible nerve damage. If the pain persists for more than a few seconds after the temperature stimulus is removed, it may signal pulp inflammation that requires root canal therapy.
Tooth Discoloration
A tooth that turns gray, dark yellow, or brown may have internal damage or dying pulp tissue. This discoloration occurs when the blood supply to the pulp is compromised, causing the tooth to darken from within.
Swollen, Tender Gums
Swelling near a painful tooth, especially if accompanied by tenderness or a pimple-like bump on the gums (called a fistula or gum boil), indicates infection. The bump may release pus and have an unpleasant taste. This is a clear sign that bacteria have spread beyond the tooth into surrounding tissues.
Cracked or Chipped Tooth
Trauma that cracks or chips a tooth can expose the pulp to bacteria, leading to infection. Even minor cracks can allow bacteria to penetrate deep into the tooth structure over time.
Deep Decay
Cavities that penetrate through the enamel and dentin into the pulp require root canal treatment. If you have a cavity that causes severe pain, especially at night, the decay has likely reached the nerve.
Abscess Formation
A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by bacterial infection. Signs include severe pain, facial swelling, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a foul taste in your mouth. Abscesses are dental emergencies requiring immediate treatment.
🚨 When to Seek Emergency Root Canal Treatment
Contact our emergency dental team immediately if you experience:
- Unbearable tooth pain that prevents sleep or normal activities
- Significant facial swelling or swelling that extends to the eye or neck
- High fever accompanied by dental pain
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Pus drainage or foul taste that won't go away
These symptoms indicate serious infection that requires immediate attention. We offer same-day emergency appointments to provide rapid relief and prevent complications.
Root Canal vs. Tooth Extraction: Why Save Your Natural Tooth?
When faced with severe tooth infection, you might wonder if extraction is a simpler solution than root canal therapy. While tooth extraction may seem easier in the short term, saving your natural tooth offers significant long-term benefits:
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
- Preserves your natural tooth and bite alignment
- Maintains natural chewing efficiency
- Prevents adjacent teeth from shifting
- More cost-effective long-term (no need for implant or bridge)
- Maintains jawbone density and facial structure
- Looks and functions like your natural tooth
- Eliminates pain and infection
Drawbacks of Tooth Extraction
- Permanent tooth loss
- Requires replacement (implant, bridge, or denture)
- Adjacent teeth may shift into the gap
- Bone loss at extraction site over time
- Changes to bite and chewing patterns
- Potential changes to facial appearance
- Higher long-term costs for replacement options
Dentists always prefer to save natural teeth when possible. Root canal therapy allows you to keep your tooth, which is almost always the best option for your oral health and overall well-being. After root canal treatment and a crown restoration, your tooth can last a lifetime with proper care.
The Root Canal Procedure: Step-by-Step
Understanding the root canal process helps reduce anxiety and sets realistic expectations. Here's exactly what happens during your treatment at Best Dental:
Step 1: Diagnosis and Treatment Planning
Dr. Naderi begins with a comprehensive examination, including digital X-rays to assess the extent of infection and examine the root canal anatomy. We'll discuss your symptoms, review your medical history, and explain the procedure in detail. This is your opportunity to ask questions and voice any concerns. If you're anxious about the procedure, we'll discuss sedation options to ensure your comfort.
Step 2: Anesthesia and Isolation
Before starting the procedure, we numb the affected tooth and surrounding area with local anesthesia. Many patients are surprised to learn that teeth requiring root canals are often already "dead" from infection, making numbing even easier. Once you're completely comfortable, we place a rubber dam (a thin sheet of rubber) around the tooth to keep it dry and isolated from saliva during treatment.
Step 3: Accessing the Pulp Chamber
Dr. Naderi creates a small opening in the top of the tooth (or the back, for front teeth) to access the pulp chamber. This opening allows access to the infected pulp and root canals. Throughout this process, you shouldn't feel any pain—just pressure and vibration from the dental drill.
Step 4: Removing Infected Tissue
Using specialized instruments called files, Dr. Naderi carefully removes all infected or damaged pulp tissue from the pulp chamber and root canals. He meticulously cleans and shapes each canal, removing bacteria and debris. The canals are irrigated with antimicrobial solutions to eliminate remaining bacteria and disinfect the interior of the tooth.
Step 5: Filling the Canals
Once the canals are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, they're filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, a rubber-like substance that seals the canals and prevents reinfection. The gutta-percha is placed using a heated technique that ensures complete sealing of the canal system.
Step 6: Temporary or Permanent Restoration
The access opening is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling material. If a temporary filling is placed, you'll return for a permanent restoration (typically a crown) at a follow-up appointment. The crown protects the treated tooth from fracture and restores full function and appearance.
💡 Root Canal Myths vs. Reality
Myth: Root canals are extremely painful.
Reality: Modern root canal therapy is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Local anesthesia ensures you feel no pain during the procedure, and most patients report significant pain relief immediately after treatment.
Myth: Root canals cause illness.
Reality: This outdated belief has been thoroughly debunked by scientific research. Root canals are safe, effective procedures that eliminate infection and improve overall health by removing bacteria from your tooth.
Myth: It's better to just extract the tooth.
Reality: Saving your natural tooth through root canal therapy is almost always preferable to extraction. Natural teeth function better and last longer than any replacement option.
Root Canal Recovery: What to Expect
Most patients experience minimal discomfort after root canal treatment and can return to normal activities the next day. Here's what to expect during your recovery:
Immediately After Treatment
- Your mouth will be numb for 2-4 hours after the procedure
- Avoid eating until numbness wears off to prevent biting your cheek or tongue
- Mild sensitivity or tenderness around the tooth is normal
- Some patients experience no discomfort at all
- You can typically return to work or school the same day
First 24-48 Hours
- Take over-the-counter pain medication as recommended (ibuprofen works well for dental discomfort)
- Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it's permanently restored with a crown
- Eat soft foods and avoid very hot or cold items if sensitive
- Maintain your regular oral hygiene routine, brushing and flossing gently
- Apply a cold compress to your face if you experience swelling (rare)
Days 3-7: Continued Healing
- Any discomfort should steadily decrease
- If you have a temporary filling, be cautious with the treated tooth
- Continue taking medication as prescribed
- If you were prescribed antibiotics, complete the full course
- Schedule your crown placement appointment (usually within 2-3 weeks)
Post-Treatment DO's
- Take prescribed or recommended pain medication
- Brush and floss regularly, being gentle around the treated tooth
- Eat soft foods initially (yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, pasta)
- Use the opposite side of your mouth for chewing
- Rinse with warm salt water to soothe tissues
- Return for your crown placement appointment
- Contact us with any concerns or questions
Post-Treatment DON'Ts
- Don't chew hard, sticky, or crunchy foods on the treated tooth
- Don't skip your crown appointment (the tooth needs protection)
- Don't ignore increasing pain or swelling
- Don't smoke (delays healing)
- Don't use the treated tooth to bite into hard foods
- Don't skip regular dental checkups
- Don't assume the tooth is "fixed forever" without a crown
When to Call the Dentist
While root canal recovery is typically smooth, contact Best Dental if you experience:
- Severe pain that doesn't improve with medication
- Visible swelling inside or outside your mouth
- Allergic reaction to medication (rash, itching, difficulty breathing)
- Your bite feels uneven or the temporary filling comes loose
- Return of original symptoms
- Fever or feeling generally unwell
Why Your Root Canal Needs a Crown
After root canal therapy, most teeth require a dental crown for protection and longevity. Here's why this final step is crucial:
Teeth Become Brittle After Root Canal
When the pulp is removed, the tooth loses its blood supply and becomes more brittle over time. Without the internal moisture and nutrients provided by the pulp, teeth can crack or fracture under normal chewing forces. A crown encases the entire tooth, distributing bite forces evenly and preventing fractures.
Crowns Restore Full Function
Root canal access requires removing some tooth structure, weakening the overall tooth. A crown restores the tooth to full strength, allowing you to bite and chew normally without worry. Modern crowns are incredibly strong and can withstand the same forces as natural teeth.
Crowns Provide Long-Term Protection
The crown seals the tooth and prevents bacteria from re-entering through the filling. This additional layer of protection is essential for the long-term success of your root canal treatment. Studies show that teeth restored with crowns after root canal therapy have significantly higher long-term success rates than those without crowns.
Crown Options
At Best Dental, we offer several crown materials:
- Porcelain (Ceramic) Crowns: Most natural-looking option, ideal for front teeth
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns: Strong and aesthetic, good for all teeth
- Gold Crowns: Extremely durable, excellent for back molars
- Zirconia Crowns: Very strong and natural-looking, great all-around choice
Dr. Naderi will recommend the best crown material based on the tooth's location, your bite, aesthetic preferences, and budget.
How Long Does a Root Canal Take?
The duration of root canal treatment depends on several factors:
Factors Affecting Treatment Time
- Which Tooth: Front teeth have one canal and take 45-60 minutes. Molars have 3-4 canals and take 90-120 minutes.
- Complexity: Curved roots, calcified canals, or unusual anatomy increase treatment time
- Infection Severity: Severe infections may require more thorough cleaning and disinfection
- Previous Treatment: Retreating a previously treated tooth takes longer
Typical Timeline
- Initial Treatment: 60-120 minutes depending on tooth
- Crown Preparation: 60 minutes at follow-up appointment (usually 2-3 weeks later)
- Crown Placement: 30-45 minutes once crown is fabricated (1-2 weeks after preparation)
Some complex cases may require two appointments to complete the root canal, especially if severe infection is present. Dr. Naderi will place medication inside the tooth between appointments to ensure complete disinfection.
Root Canal Cost in Richmond, TX
Root canal costs vary based on which tooth is treated and the complexity of the case:
Front Tooth Root Canal
Premolar Root Canal
Molar Root Canal
These costs include the root canal procedure itself. The crown restoration is separate and typically costs $1,000-$2,000 depending on the material chosen.
Insurance Coverage
Most dental insurance plans cover root canal therapy as a major procedure, typically at 50-80% after your deductible. We accept all major insurance providers including Delta Dental, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and Guardian.
Our experienced insurance coordinators will verify your benefits before treatment, submit all claims on your behalf, and work to maximize your coverage. We'll provide a detailed estimate of your out-of-pocket costs before beginning treatment.
Flexible Financing Options
Best Dental offers multiple payment options to make root canal therapy affordable:
- In-house payment plans with low or no interest
- CareCredit healthcare financing with promotional periods
- Third-party lending options
- HSA and FSA accepted
- Flexible payment arrangements based on your budget
Don't let cost concerns prevent you from getting necessary treatment. Untreated tooth infections can lead to serious complications, including abscess, bone loss, and spread of infection to other parts of the body. Early intervention is always more cost-effective than dealing with complications later.
Root Canal vs. Extraction: Cost Comparison
While extraction might seem like the cheaper option initially, the long-term costs tell a different story:
| Treatment | Initial Cost | Replacement Cost | Total Long-Term Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Root Canal + Crown | $1,700-$3,000 | None (tooth saved) | $1,700-$3,000 |
| Extraction + Implant | $150-$300 | $3,000-$5,000 | $3,150-$5,300 |
| Extraction + Bridge | $150-$300 | $2,000-$4,000 | $2,150-$4,300 |
| Extraction Only (No Replacement) | $150-$300 | Future complications* | Variable (often costly) |
*Not replacing an extracted tooth can lead to: adjacent teeth shifting, bite problems, bone loss, difficulty chewing, TMJ issues, and additional dental problems requiring expensive treatment.
When you consider the total lifetime cost and the value of keeping your natural tooth, root canal therapy is typically the most cost-effective choice.
Preventing the Need for Root Canals
While we're here to help when you need root canal treatment, prevention is always the best approach. Here's how to protect your teeth:
Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste for two minutes
- Floss once daily to remove plaque between teeth
- Use antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria
- Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months
Regular Dental Checkups
Visit Best Dental every six months for preventive care including professional cleanings and comprehensive exams. Early detection of cavities allows us to treat decay with simple fillings before it reaches the pulp and requires root canal therapy.
Address Dental Problems Promptly
Don't ignore tooth pain, sensitivity, or visible cavities. The earlier you seek treatment, the more conservative your options. A small cavity can be fixed with a filling, but if you wait until it causes severe pain, you'll likely need a root canal.
Protect Your Teeth from Trauma
- Wear a mouthguard during contact sports
- Don't use your teeth as tools (opening packages, bottles, etc.)
- Avoid chewing ice, hard candies, or other extremely hard foods
- If you grind your teeth at night, ask about a night guard
Limit Sugar and Acidic Foods
Bacteria feed on sugar to produce acid that erodes enamel. Limiting sugary snacks and beverages reduces decay risk. When you do consume sugary or acidic foods, rinse with water afterward and wait 30 minutes before brushing.
Why Choose Best Dental for Root Canal Treatment in Richmond, TX?
When you need root canal therapy, you want a dentist with the expertise and technology to provide comfortable, successful treatment. Here's why Richmond residents choose Best Dental:
Experienced Endodontic Care
Dr. Sonny Naderi has extensive training in endodontics (root canal therapy) and has successfully treated thousands of patients. His gentle technique and meticulous attention to detail ensure excellent outcomes with minimal discomfort.
Advanced Technology
We use digital X-rays for precise diagnosis, rotary endodontic instruments for thorough cleaning, and apex locators to accurately measure canal length. This technology makes treatment faster, more comfortable, and more predictable than traditional methods.
Sedation Options for Comfort
If you're anxious about root canal treatment, we offer sedation options including nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oral sedation. You can relax completely while we take care of your tooth.
Same-Day Emergency Appointments
Tooth infections don't wait for convenient times. If you're experiencing severe pain or signs of infection, we'll see you the same day to provide relief and begin treatment.
Comprehensive Care Under One Roof
From diagnosis to root canal to crown placement, we handle everything in our office. You won't need to visit a specialist or coordinate between multiple providers—we provide complete care from start to finish.
Transparent Pricing and Financing
We believe you should know exactly what to expect before treatment begins. We'll provide detailed cost estimates, verify your insurance benefits, and help you arrange comfortable payment plans if needed.
Experiencing Tooth Pain?
Don't suffer with a toothache or risk losing your natural tooth. Schedule a consultation at Best Dental in Richmond, TX today. Dr. Naderi will thoroughly examine your tooth, explain your treatment options, and provide gentle, pain-free root canal therapy that saves your smile.
Schedule Your AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions About Root Canals
Are root canals painful?
No—modern root canal treatment is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. You'll receive local anesthesia that completely numbs the area, so you won't feel pain during the procedure. Most patients report that root canals actually relieve their pain rather than cause it, since the procedure eliminates the infection causing their toothache. Any post-treatment discomfort is typically mild and easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
How long does a root canal last?
With proper care and a protective crown, teeth treated with root canal therapy can last a lifetime. Studies show success rates above 95% at 10 years and 85-90% at 20+ years. The key to longevity is getting a crown placed promptly after the root canal, maintaining excellent oral hygiene, and attending regular dental checkups.
Can I wait to get a root canal if I'm not in pain?
No—if Dr. Naderi recommends root canal therapy, it's important to proceed even if you're not experiencing severe pain. Sometimes the nerve dies and pain subsides temporarily, but the infection continues to spread and damage bone. Delaying treatment allows the infection to worsen, potentially requiring more extensive treatment or tooth extraction. Early intervention is always easier, less expensive, and more successful.
What happens if I don't get a root canal when I need one?
Untreated tooth infections don't heal on their own and will progressively worsen. Consequences of delaying root canal treatment include spreading infection that damages surrounding bone and teeth, abscess formation that can spread to your jaw, face, or even brain, severe pain that interferes with eating and sleeping, tooth loss requiring more expensive replacement options, and in rare cases, life-threatening systemic infection. Getting timely treatment prevents these serious complications.
Can a tooth that's had a root canal still get infected?
While rare, it's possible for a previously treated tooth to develop new infection if bacteria re-enter the canal system through cracks, new decay, or a loose crown. This is why protective crowns and good oral hygiene are essential after root canal therapy. If reinfection occurs, the tooth can often be saved with root canal retreatment.
Do I need a crown after a root canal?
Yes, in most cases. Root canal treatment removes the blood supply to the tooth, making it brittle and prone to fracture. A crown protects the tooth from breaking under chewing forces and seals it against reinfection. The only exceptions are some front teeth that don't bear heavy chewing forces—these may be restored with large fillings instead.
How much does a root canal cost?
Root canal costs range from $700-$1,500 depending on which tooth is treated. Front teeth are less expensive ($700-$1,000) because they have fewer canals, while molars cost more ($1,100-$1,500) due to their complex anatomy. The crown restoration adds $1,000-$2,000. Most dental insurance covers 50-80% of root canal costs, and we offer financing to make treatment affordable.
Can I drive myself home after a root canal?
If you receive only local anesthesia, yes—you can drive yourself home and return to normal activities. If you choose sedation options like oral sedation or IV sedation, you'll need someone to drive you home and stay with you for a few hours. We'll discuss this during treatment planning.
How long is recovery after a root canal?
Most patients return to normal activities the next day. You may experience mild tenderness for a few days that responds well to over-the-counter pain medication. The tooth and surrounding tissues typically feel completely normal within 3-7 days. Complete internal healing takes several months, but this happens without any symptoms or activity restrictions.
Is it better to get a root canal or pull the tooth?
Saving your natural tooth with root canal therapy is almost always preferable to extraction. Natural teeth function better, last longer, and are more cost-effective than any replacement option. Extraction should only be considered when the tooth is too damaged to save or when other health factors make root canal therapy inadvisable. We'll always recommend the option that provides the best long-term outcome for your oral health.
Comprehensive Dental Care Beyond Root Canals
While we excel at root canal therapy, Best Dental provides complete family dental care for Richmond residents:
Preventive dentistry with regular cleanings, exams, and gum disease treatment, cosmetic dentistry including teeth whitening, veneers, and smile makeovers, restorative procedures like crowns, bridges, and fillings, dental implants for permanent tooth replacement, orthodontic care with Invisalign and traditional braces, emergency dental services for urgent problems, and oral surgery including tooth extractions and wisdom teeth removal.
Whether you need routine care or complex treatment, our experienced team led by Dr. Jasmine Naderi and Dr. Sonny Naderi provides compassionate, expert care for patients of all ages.
Don't Let Tooth Pain Control Your Life
If you're experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity, or other signs of infection, don't wait for the problem to worsen. Early root canal treatment is easier, more comfortable, and more successful than waiting until the infection becomes severe. At Best Dental in Richmond, TX, we're committed to saving your natural teeth and eliminating your pain with gentle, effective root canal therapy.
Our team combines advanced technology, proven techniques, and compassionate care to make root canal treatment as comfortable and stress-free as possible. We'll take the time to explain everything, answer your questions, and ensure you feel confident about your treatment.
Contact us today at (281) 215-3065 or schedule your consultation online. Same-day emergency appointments are available for urgent problems. Let us help you save your tooth, relieve your pain, and restore your smile.