Understanding the procedure that saves teeth
A root canal — technically called endodontic therapy — is a procedure that removes infected or inflamed pulp from the inside of a tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue at the core of each tooth containing nerves and blood vessels. When bacteria reach the pulp through deep decay, a crack, or a large filling, infection develops. Left untreated, the infection spreads to the jaw and surrounding teeth.
Root canal therapy removes the infected tissue, disinfects the root canal system, and seals the tooth to prevent reinfection. A crown is typically placed afterward to protect and restore the tooth. The result: the tooth is saved. Without treatment, extraction is the only alternative.
The pain myth: Root canals do not cause pain — they relieve it. The discomfort patients associate with root canals is caused by the infection itself, not the procedure. With modern local anesthesia, the procedure is no more uncomfortable than a routine filling.
15M+
Root Canals Performed in the US Each Year
95%
Success Rate for Properly Treated Teeth
1-2
Typical Number of Appointments Required
10+
Years a Treated Tooth Can Last With Proper Care
Do not ignore these symptoms
- Severe, persistent toothache or pressure
- Prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold after the stimulus is removed
- Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
- Swelling or tenderness in the surrounding gum tissue
- A recurring pimple or bump on the gum
- Pain that radiates to the jaw, ear, or neck
Many of these symptoms indicate that the dental pulp has been compromised. However, some teeth that need root canals cause no symptoms at all — which is one reason why regular X-rays at your cleaning appointments are important. An X-ray can reveal infection at the root tip before any pain develops, making treatment simpler and more predictable.
Step by step
Anesthesia
Local anesthetic is administered. Once fully numb, you should feel pressure but no pain. Nitrous oxide is available for anxious patients.
Access & Removal
A small opening is made in the tooth. The infected pulp is carefully removed using specialized files.
Cleaning & Shaping
The canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected with antimicrobial solutions.
Sealing
The canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha and sealed. A temporary or permanent crown protects the tooth.
Korcek Dental
Tooth pain? Don’t wait.
Dental infections worsen quickly. Call (775) 782-9177 for same-day evaluation.