Oral surgery · Root canals
Root canals
Root canals have a scary reputation, but they are a comfortable way to save a tooth whose nerve has become infected. Dr. Monzer Shakally clears up the myths and walks through the process in the video below.
Common questions
Everything you need to know
Answers from Dr. Shakally on candidacy, the process, timeline, and what to expect.
A cavity that reaches the deepest part of the tooth can infect the nerve. A root canal removes that infected nerve, cleans the inside of the tooth, and seals it so the tooth can stay in your mouth.
Some are obvious, like severe pain that wakes you at night and does not respond to ibuprofen. But many teeth that need a root canal have no symptoms at all and are found on an exam or X-ray.
Almost always, especially on back teeth. Once the nerve is removed the tooth becomes more brittle, and a crown restores its strength and protects it.
You are numbed throughout, and if you are very anxious or in a lot of pain we can add laughing gas or sedation. Most people find the procedure far easier than the toothache that brought them in.
It varies. Some feel nothing, others have some jaw soreness from holding their mouth open or tenderness at the tooth. Many return to work the next day.
It depends on the tooth. If the tooth can still be saved, especially in a younger patient, a root canal is usually preferable. If it has been through too much, an implant may be the better path.
In pain? We can usually save the tooth.
Come in for a consultation. We will look at your situation honestly and walk you through your options, the timeline, and the cost before you commit to anything.
Worried about cost? Flexible payment plans are available.