What Happens During the Root Canal Procedure?

In the beginning stages of the root canal procedure, an anesthetic will typically be used to numb the affected tooth and the surrounding area. An opening through the tooth’s crown and into the pulp (the soft center of the tooth that houses the nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue) will then be created. Once the diseased pulp is removed, we clean and enlarge the root canal area. The root canal and chamber may then be permanently filled and sealed. A temporary filling is placed in the tooth’s opening before your next visit. Depending on your individual case, the tooth could be left open in order to let the infection drain.

The inside of the tooth will be sterilized at your next visit to remove any bacteria. The root canal and pulp chamber are permanently filled to complete the process. Your tooth is finally restored to chewing function, which may involve placing a permanent filling or dental crown. If discoloration is an issue, we can provide teeth whitening following the procedure.

Are Sedation Dentistry Options Available for Root Canal Therapy?

If you experience dental anxiety, we offer a number of sedation dentistry techniques to help you feel calmer and more comfortable during your root canal procedure. Root canal therapy has a reputation for being intimidating, but modern dental techniques—combined with advanced sedation options—can make your experience smoother, more comfortable, and virtually stress-free. If you feel anxious about undergoing a root canal, our sedation dentistry solutions are designed to help you stay calm and relaxed throughout the procedure.

Oral Conscious Sedation

For patients with mild to moderate dental anxiety, oral conscious sedation offers a gentle yet effective way to ease nerves before and during root canal therapy. This method involves taking a prescribed sedative pill shortly before your appointment. While you’ll remain awake and able to respond to verbal cues, you should feel deeply relaxed—and in many cases, have little memory of the procedure afterward. This option can be ideal for individuals who want to remain conscious but calm while their tooth is being treated. 

Oral Conscious Sedation

IV Sedation (Sleep Dentistry)

If you experience severe dental phobia or require a more complex root canal treatment, intravenous (IV) sedation may be recommended. Often referred to as “sleep dentistry,” IV sedation allows you to enter a sleep-like state where you are unaware of the procedure being performed. Your vital signs will be continuously monitored for safety, and you’ll awaken with your treatment completed and minimal recollection of the experience. This option is especially beneficial for patients seeking a deeper level of sedation and maximum comfort. 

IV Sedation 

How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?

The cost of a root canal will vary depending on the level of damage sustained and the techniques used to restore the tooth. Dr. Shen will discuss your options during your initial consultation and develop a customized treatment plan based on your needs and goals. Dental insurance often covers a portion of root canal treatment, and our skilled team can help you determine what type of coverage, if any, your policy provides.

What Happens After a Root Canal?

After your root canal treatment, you should be able to return home. Dr. Shen will provide you with any instructions for how to care for your temporary dental crown, as well as any directions for medication. In approximately three weeks, you should be able to return for a follow-up appointment where your permanent crown will be placed and the fit and outcome evaluated. Complications following a root canal are rare, and we will make every effort to ensure your experience is a pleasant and successful one.

“Great place definitely recommend, had wisdom teeth extracted and root canal, very well organised and explained well , great staff .great experience with extraction procedure. Everything went well . Great place , definitely recommend.”
Harjinder S.

Additional Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Root Canal Therapy

To aid you in your research, Dr. Shen has answered a number of commonly asked questions about root canal treatment. If you have additional inquiries, or if you would like to schedule a consultation, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.

If you have additional questions about root canal treatment and what to expect, contact us today. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is happy to answer questions and to help you schedule a free consultation with Dr. Shen.*

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