Few dental words make people as nervous as "root canal." But a root canal doesn't cause the pain. It ends it. Today's root canals feel a lot like getting a filling, and they let you keep your natural tooth instead of losing it.
At Agoura Dental Group, root canals and other endodontic care are done by our in-house endodontist, Dr. Samuel Gegamin. Endodontists are dentists with extra years of training focused on the inside of the tooth. Here's what you should know before your visit.
What is a root canal?
Every tooth has soft tissue inside called the pulp. The pulp holds nerves and blood vessels, and it runs down through narrow channels in the roots. These channels are the "root canals."
When the pulp gets infected or inflamed, it can't heal on its own. A root canal removes the damaged pulp, cleans and shapes the inside of the tooth, and seals it to keep bacteria out. The tooth stays in place and keeps working like normal.
What causes pulp damage?
- A deep cavity that reaches the pulp
- A cracked or chipped tooth
- An injury to the mouth, even if the tooth doesn't look broken
- Repeated dental work on the same tooth
- A large filling that has worn down or leaked
Signs you may need a root canal
- Throbbing or lasting tooth pain
- Pain when you chew or touch the tooth
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the food or drink is gone
- A tooth that has turned gray or dark
- Swollen or tender gums near one tooth
- A pimple-like bump on the gums
- Swelling in your face or jaw
Sometimes there are no symptoms at all, and we find the problem on an X-ray. If your pain suddenly stops, don't assume the problem is gone. It can mean the nerve has died, and the infection can still spread. Swelling in your face or jaw needs care right away. Read our emergency dentist guide for what to do.
What happens during a root canal
- Exam and X-rays. Dr. Gegamin checks the tooth and takes X-rays to see the roots and any infection.
- Numbing. We numb the tooth and the area around it so you're comfortable.
- Cleaning the inside. A small opening is made in the top of the tooth. The damaged pulp is removed, and the canals are cleaned and shaped.
- Sealing. The canals are filled with a rubber-like material and sealed.
- Restoring the tooth. Most back teeth need a crown afterward to protect them from cracking. Our restorative team can place your crown in the same office.
Most root canals take one or two visits. If you feel anxious, ask about our sedation options.
Does a root canal hurt?
Most patients say it feels like a normal filling. The pain people remember usually comes from the infection, not the treatment. Afterward, the tooth may feel sore for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers usually help.
Recovery after a root canal
- Wait until the numbness wears off before you eat
- Chew on the other side until your final crown is in place
- Keep brushing and flossing as usual
- Take any medicine exactly as prescribed
- Call us if swelling gets worse or pain lasts more than a few days
Root canal or extraction?
Pulling the tooth can seem simpler, but it often leads to more work later. A missing tooth lets nearby teeth shift, and replacing it with an implant or bridge takes more time and costs more. When a tooth can be saved, saving it is usually the best choice.
If a tooth is too damaged to save, our oral surgery and implant team can remove it and plan your replacement in the same office. Learn more in our dental implants guide.
Why an in-house endodontist matters
Many general dentists refer root canals out to a specialist. That can mean waiting days in pain for an opening. At Agoura Dental Group, your general dentist, endodontist, and restorative team work together under one roof. You get specialist care without the referral, and your crown can be planned at the same time.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a root canal take?
Most take one to two visits, often 60 to 90 minutes each. Your time depends on the tooth and how many canals it has.
Can I go back to work after a root canal?
Most people go back to normal activities the same day. If you had sedation, plan to rest for the day.
How long does a tooth last after a root canal?
With a crown and good home care, a treated tooth can last for many years, often a lifetime.
Is a root canal covered by insurance?
Most PPO plans cover part of root canal treatment. We accept most PPOs and Medi-Cal and will check your benefits before you start. See our insurance and financing pages.
Get root canal treatment in Agoura Hills
Tooth pain is your body's way of asking for help. The sooner you're seen, the better the chance of saving your tooth.
Call (818) 706-2727 or book your visit online. We're open Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM, and Saturday, 10 AM to 3 PM. New patients receive a $50 gift card toward any treatment.
