Do You Need a Root Canal? Here’s What You Need To Know

Root canal therapy (RCT) is a common treatment for saving teeth that have been severely damaged or infected. But how do you know if you need one? Common signs include:

• Persistent toothache or throbbing pain
• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
• Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the tooth
• Tooth discoloration

These symptoms usually indicate that the tooth’s pulp—the soft tissue inside the tooth—has become inflamed or infected due to decay, trauma, or repeated dental procedures. Left untreated, this can lead to severe complications, such as abscesses or bone loss. Sometimes we also need to access the root canal of a tooth to use a post to help support a crown and save the tooth. Occasionally,

What Happens During a Root Canal?

Many patients are surprised by how straightforward root canal therapy is. The process involves several steps: Numbing the tooth, Removing the infected pulp, cleaning and sealing the canal and filling the access. Sounds easy, right?

Is a Root Canal Painful?

A common myth about root canals is that they are painful. The reality? Root canal therapy alleviates pain rather than causing it. Most discomfort occurs before the procedure, caused by the infection or inflammation inside the tooth. With modern anesthetics and techniques, the procedure itself is typically painless and comparable to getting a routine filling. Oddly, more people fall asleep during these procedures than any other; most often as they are relieved of the pain that has caused sleepless nights.

How Does a Root Canal Save Your Tooth?

When the pulp of a tooth becomes damaged, the tooth is at risk of dying, potentially leading to extraction. Root canal therapy removes the source of infection, allowing us to save the tooth According to research in the Journal of Endodontics, a root canal-treated tooth can last for decades when properly restored and maintained, offering a long-lasting solution.

Why Is a Crown Important After a Root Canal?

After root canal treatment, the tooth is more fragile due to loss of tooth structure during the preparation. Without protection, it’s vulnerable to cracks and fractures. Studies, such as those published in the International Endodontic Journal, show that placing a crown on a root canal-treated tooth significantly improves its strength and longevity. A crown restores the tooth’s full function while protecting it from future damage.

Are Specialists Needed for Root Canals?

At Park Blvd Dentistry, we perform many root canal procedures. However, some cases—such as those involving curved or hard-to-reach canals—are best handled by an endodontist. These specialists have additional training in complex root canal treatments, ensuring the best possible outcome for your tooth.

What Should You Do If You Think You Need a Root Canal?

If you’re experiencing tooth pain or other symptoms of an infected tooth, don’t delay treatment. Root canal therapy at can relieve your discomfort and preserve your natural smile.

Ng, Y. L., Mann, V., & Gulabivala, K. (2010). “Tooth survival following non-surgical root canal treatment: A systematic review of the literature.” International Endodontic Journal, 43(3), 171–189.

Sjögren, U., et al. (1990). “Factors affecting the long-term results of endodontic treatment.” Journal of Endodontics, 16(10), 498–504.