A severe toothache can make it difficult to eat, sleep, or even concentrate. If an infection has reached the inside of your tooth, you may think losing it is your only option. In many cases, it isn't.
Root canal therapy removes the infection while preserving your natural tooth whenever possible. Our experienced dentists and our team focus on making the experience as comfortable as possible, using gentle techniques and taking the time to explain each step along the way. Our goal is simple: relieve your pain, protect your smile, and help you feel comfortable from start to finish.
Save Your Smile
Most people don't plan for a root canal. They come to us because something doesn't feel right. You may have constant tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, pain when biting down, swelling around the tooth, or a tooth that has become darker over time.
These symptoms often mean the soft tissue inside your tooth, called the pulp, has become infected. Without treatment, the infection can continue to spread, increasing the risk of an abscess or even tooth loss.
A root canal removes the infected tissue from inside the tooth, thoroughly cleans the area, and seals it to help prevent future infection. Once the source of the problem is removed, most patients experience significant relief.
Keeping your natural tooth offers several long-term benefits:
Whenever possible, preserving your natural tooth is the healthiest long-term option, and root canal therapy is often the treatment that makes that possible.
Many patients are surprised to learn that a root canal feels much like having a filling. Modern techniques and local anesthetic make the procedure far more comfortable than most people expect.
Here's what your appointment will typically involve:
If the infection is extensive, antibiotics may be prescribed before treatment. In more complex situations, such as unusually shaped root canals, we may recommend treatment with an endodontist specializing in root canal procedures.
A root canal removes the infection, but it can also leave the tooth weaker than it was before. That's why many teeth are restored with a dental crown.
A crown covers the entire tooth, helping protect it from cracking while restoring its strength and function. It allows you to bite, chew, and smile with confidence while helping your treatment last for years to come.
If a crown is recommended, we'll explain why and answer any questions so you understand exactly what to expect.
Modern root canal therapy is much more comfortable than many people expect. We numb the area thoroughly before treatment begins, so most patients feel little more than pressure during the procedure. In many cases, the root canal relieves the pain caused by the infection.
Persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, pain when biting, swelling around a tooth, or a darkened tooth can all be signs that you may need a root canal. The best way to know for sure is with a dental exam and X-rays.
Most root canals can be completed in one appointment, although more complex cases may require a second visit. Your dentist will explain what to expect after evaluating your tooth.
Many teeth benefit from a dental crown after root canal treatment because the tooth can become weaker once the infection has been removed. A crown helps protect the tooth from cracking and restores its strength for everyday use.
An infected tooth will not heal on its own. Delaying treatment can allow the infection to spread, increase your discomfort, and make it more difficult to save the tooth. Seeking treatment early often leads to a simpler and more predictable outcome.
Tooth pain rarely gets better on its own, and treating it early gives you the best chance of saving your natural tooth. Our dentists and team at Los Gatos Dental Group are here to help you feel comfortable, understand your options, and provide the care you need to get back to smiling without pain.