What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a procedure designed to save a tooth that has become severely infected or damaged at its core. Inside every tooth is a soft tissue called the pulp — containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When bacteria reach the pulp through a deep cavity, crack, or injury, infection sets in and causes significant pain.
At Italian Smiles, we perform root canal treatment to remove the infected pulp, clean and seal the tooth, and restore it with a crown — so you keep your natural tooth and get lasting relief from pain.
Despite their reputation, root canals today are comfortable procedures. With modern anesthesia and sedation options, most patients are surprised by how easy the experience actually is.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
If you're experiencing any of the following, call us right away — early treatment can save your tooth.
What to Expect: Step by Step
Examination & X-Rays
We take digital X-rays to assess the extent of infection and determine the best treatment approach for your tooth.
Anesthesia
Local anesthesia is applied to completely numb the area. Most patients are surprised by how comfortable the procedure actually is.
Removing the Pulp
A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth. The infected or damaged pulp tissue is carefully removed from the canals.
Cleaning & Shaping
The canals are thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and shaped to prepare them for the filling material.
Filling the Canals
The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha and sealed to prevent reinfection.
Restoration
A crown is typically placed over the treated tooth to restore its strength, function, and appearance for long-term protection.
We Make It Comfortable
Dental anxiety is real — and we take it seriously. Italian Smiles offers sedation options including laughing gas and oral conscious sedation, plus a full suite of comfort amenities: massage chairs, soft pillows, cozy blankets, and soothing music to help you relax from start to finish.
Learn About Our Comfort Options →Root Canal FAQs
Does a root canal hurt?+
Root canals have an undeserved reputation for being painful. With modern anesthesia and techniques, the procedure itself is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Most patients feel significant relief from their pre-treatment pain once the infection is removed.
How long does a root canal take?+
Most root canals are completed in one or two appointments, each lasting about 60–90 minutes. Complex cases or severely curved canals may require an additional visit.
What happens if I don't get a root canal?+
Left untreated, an infected tooth can worsen significantly. The infection can spread to surrounding teeth, the jawbone, and even other parts of the body. In most cases, the tooth will eventually need to be extracted.
How long does a root canal last?+
With proper care — good oral hygiene and a protective crown — a root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime. Regular checkups help ensure the tooth stays healthy long-term.
Will I need a crown after a root canal?+
In most cases, yes. After the pulp is removed, the tooth becomes more brittle. A crown protects it from cracking under the pressure of chewing and restores its natural appearance.
Tooth Pain? Don't Wait.
Call Italian Smiles today to schedule a root canal consultation. We open as early as 7 a.m. and offer sedation for a comfortable experience.