Root Canals
They aren’t as bad as most people think
The reputation is worse than the reality. A root canal is how we save a tooth that would otherwise need to come out. With modern techniques, most patients are surprised by how manageable it actually is.
If you’re dealing with a damaged or infected tooth we usually have same-day or next-day appointments. Call (757) 539-9481 to find out or fill out our online form and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Schedule an Appointment (757) 539-9481
The procedure
The truth about what happens during a root canal
Inside every tooth is a small chamber containing soft tissue, nerves, and blood vessels.
When that tissue becomes infected or severely damaged, it causes significant pain and, if left untreated, can lead to abscess or tooth loss.
A root canal removes the infected tissue, cleans out the inside of the tooth, and seals it.The tooth stays in place, the pain goes away, and a crown is usually placed on top afterward to protect it.
That's it. The tooth is saved and the infection is gone.
Setting the record straight
Why the reputation isn’t fair
Most of the fear around root canals comes from stories that are decades old. From a time when the procedure was genuinely more uncomfortable.
Techniques and tools have changed a lot since then.
Today, the experience is comparable to getting a filling. The area is numbed thoroughly before anything starts. Most of the discomfort people feel is from the infection itself, not the treatment.
Comparable to a filling
The area is fully numbed before we begin
Modern tools make the procedure faster and gentler
Most discomfort comes from the infection, and that goes away
Warning signs
How do you know if you need one?
A few signs worth getting checked out — not definitive proof you need a root canal.
Persistent tooth pain
Especially pain that's deep, throbbing, or gets worse when you bite down.
Sensitivity that lingers
Heat or cold sensitivity that doesn't go away after a few seconds.
Tender or swollen gums
Near a specific tooth, sometimes with a visible bump.
A darkening tooth
Discoloration can be a sign the tissue inside is damaged.
The only way to know for sure is to come in for X-rays and an exam.
What to expect
The root canal process
Before we start
We walk you through everything — what we're doing, what you'll feel, and what recovery looks like.
The treatment
Typically one to two visits depending on the tooth and the extent of the infection.
Recovery & crown
Some soreness for a day or two is normal — most people are back to their routine quickly. A crown is usually placed at a follow-up to protect the tooth long-term.
Cost & Financing
How much does a root canal cost?
Cost varies depending on which tooth is involved and your insurance coverage. We go over all of that before treatment begins. Financing is available through Sunbit and CareCredit if you need to spread the cost out.
We also offer an in-house dental plan that provides discounts and starts at $34 per month.
View Our Financing Options & Dental Plans $34/mo
to start
No insurance? Our in-house dental plan provides discounts on care and starts at just $34 per month — so cost doesn't keep you from the smile you've been picturing.
The sooner you come in, the simpler it is
Tooth infections don’t get better on their own. We’re right here in Suffolk and can usually accommodate a same-day or next-day appointment.
Schedule an Appointment (757) 539-9481