Does Any of This Sound Familiar?
Pain like this is hard to live with. The good news is that relief is closer than you think.
What Waiting Really Costs
Infection Spreads
An untreated infection can move into the bone and nearby teeth.
Pain Intensifies
What aches today often becomes harder to ignore tomorrow.
Tooth Becomes Unsavable
Wait too long and extraction may be the only choice left.
Treatment Grows Complex
Simple care now can turn into surgery and replacement later.
Costs Climb Higher
Delaying often means more visits and bigger expenses down the road.
Daily Life Suffers
Eating, sleeping, and focusing all get harder as the problem grows.
Acting sooner means simpler treatment, faster relief, and a better shot at saving your tooth.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal treats the soft tissue inside your tooth when it becomes infected or inflamed. Inside every tooth is a small chamber of nerves and blood vessels called the pulp, and when decay or a crack reaches it, the result is often pain and sensitivity. Treatment clears the infection from inside the tooth, then seals the space to protect it, letting you keep a tooth that might otherwise be lost.
When you come to Santa Rosa Dental for a root canal, we plan carefully using modern imaging and the WaveOne system for precise, efficient care. Patients seeking a root canal in Santa Rosa, CA benefit from tools that support accuracy and comfort, so treatment feels smoother from start to finish. Every step is shaped around clear answers and your ease.
Treatment often completes in one to two visits
Success rates for root canals exceed 90 percent
A crown often follows to protect the tooth
Transformations That Last
“I really enjoyed the art of eating good food”
Jeff: Lower Fixed Denture
"I just have closer relationships with people."
Chris: Fixed Hybrid Dentures
Be Our Next Success Story
Request an appointment with one of our doctors to plan your next step.
Benefits of Root Canals
See What's Possible for Your Smile
See Where Your Smile Could Go
Is a Root Canal Right for You?
Have a tooth that aches or throbs without clear relief
Feel lingering sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
Have noticed swelling or tenderness around one tooth
Want to save your natural tooth instead of removing it
Have been told an infected tooth may need attention
Not Sure If It's the Answer?
What to Expect During Your Root Canal
Exam and Diagnosis
You'll start by telling us what you're feeling and when it began. We examine the tooth and review digital imaging to pinpoint the source of the problem, then explain clearly what we see. This gives you a full understanding of your options before anything else happens, so you feel informed and in control from the very beginning.
Gentle Numbing
Before treatment starts, we numb the area thoroughly so you stay comfortable throughout. If you feel anxious, we offer nitrous, oral sedation, and IV sedation to help you relax. We check in with you to confirm you're at ease, and only move forward once you feel completely ready and settled.
Clearing the Infection
Using the WaveOne system, we carefully remove the infected tissue from inside the tooth. This modern approach supports precision and efficiency, which often means a smoother, quicker visit. Most patients feel only pressure rather than pain, and we talk you through each part so nothing catches you by surprise along the way.
Sealing and Protecting
Once the tooth is clean, we seal the space to guard against future infection. In many cases, a crown follows to restore full strength, especially for back teeth that handle heavy biting. We'll plan this final step with you so your tooth stays protected and functional for years to come.
Ready to Leave the Pain Behind?
Recovering After Your Root Canal
First 24-48 Hours
You may notice mild tenderness around the treated tooth, which is completely normal as the area settles. Over-the-counter pain relief usually keeps you comfortable, and sticking to softer foods gives the tooth a chance to rest. Most patients find this stage far easier than the pain that brought them in.
First Week
Any lingering sensitivity continues to ease as the days pass. You can return to your regular routine and normal eating, chewing gently on the treated side until your permanent restoration is in place. By the end of the week, most patients feel completely back to themselves.
Questions About Recovery? We're Here to Help.
Flexible Payment Plans for Your Smile
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Root Canal FAQs
How do I know if I need a root canal?
Does a root canal hurt?
How long does the treatment take?
Will I need a crown afterward?
What technology do you use?
Is a root canal better than pulling the tooth?
Can you help in an emergency?
Do you offer sedation?
What happens if I wait too long?
How long will the tooth last afterward?
Still Have Questions?
