When a Root Canal Is Needed
A root canal is recommended when the nerve tissue inside a tooth becomes infected or damaged — often from a deep cavity, a crack, or trauma. Left untreated, this can lead to a painful abscess or the loss of the tooth entirely.
- Persistent or throbbing tooth pain
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums near a tooth
- Discoloration of a single tooth
What to Expect
After a thorough evaluation, Dr. Ali or Dr. Carey will remove the damaged nerve tissue, clean and seal the area, and — in most cases — restore the tooth with a filling or crown. Depending on the tooth, this may take one or more visits.
What Actually Happens
- The examDr. Ali looks at the tooth and usually takes an X-ray so she can see how far the infection has spread. She'll show you the image and explain what she's seeing before deciding anything.
- Getting numbThe area is numbed completely before she starts. If you're someone who gets nervous at the dentist, tell her — she'll check in as she goes instead of just working through it.
- The treatment itselfThe infected tissue comes out, the inside of the tooth gets cleaned and sealed. It usually feels a lot like sitting through a filling.
- Protecting the tooth afterMost root-canaled teeth need a crown afterward, especially back teeth. Dr. Ali will tell you at your visit whether yours does.
From Dr. Ali
Nobody likes hearing "you need a root canal." I know that, so before anything happens, I'll show you what I'm seeing on the X-ray and explain why this specific tooth needs treatment. If you have questions mid-appointment, ask — I'll stop and answer them. It's a small office. You'll see the same faces at your next cleaning as you did today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a root canal hurt?
Not while it's happening — the tooth is fully numbed first. Some soreness for a day or two afterward is normal, similar to what you'd feel after a filling.
How long does it take?
Usually one visit, around 60–90 minutes. Occasionally a tooth needs a second visit, and Dr. Ali will let you know upfront if yours might.
Will I need a crown afterward?
Often, especially on molars that do a lot of chewing. Dr. Ali will tell you during the exam whether your tooth is a candidate.
What happens if I just skip it?
The infection doesn't go away on its own — it usually gets worse, leads to an abscess, and can eventually cost you the tooth. The root canal is what avoids that.
Related Services
Root canals often come paired with a crown afterward, and if you're in pain right now, our emergency line can get you seen faster.
Ready to schedule?
Give us a call — we'll find a time that works for you.