Morgan Hill Endodontics:

Root Canal Treatment

Save Your Tooth, Relieve Your Pain

What Is Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy is a highly effective dental treatment performed by Morgan Hill Endodontics to save a damaged tooth and alleviate pain. During the procedure, the affected pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth) is removed to stop infection, relieve discomfort, and restore full function—keeping your natural tooth intact.

When Is Root Canal Therapy Needed?

A root canal may be necessary when:

  • The tooth pulp is affected by deep decay or infection.

  • An abscess forms at the root of the tooth or on the gums.

  • The tooth experiences severe sensitivity to hot or cold.

  • Injury or trauma damages the inner tissue of the tooth.

  • There is persistent toothache pain, swelling, or tenderness.

  • A crack or a fracture compromises the tooth’s integrity.

Why Choose Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy provides multiple benefits:

  1. Significant Pain Relief: Compared to leaving a damaged tooth untreated, root canal treatment greatly reduces pain and addresses the source of infection.

  2. Tooth Preservation: Keeping your natural tooth helps you maintain a stable bite and efficient chewing function.

  3. Restored Function: After placing a protective crown, the tooth regains normal strength and appearance.

  4. Stops Infection: Removing infected pulp prevents the spread of bacteria, protecting your overall oral health.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Contact your endodontist if you notice any of these symptoms:

  • Persistent or worsening tooth pain, especially during biting or chewing

  • Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold

  • Swollen, tender gums or an abscess near the affected tooth

  • A cracked, chipped, or deeply decayed tooth

What to Expect During Your Root Canal Procedure

Root canal therapy typically involves these following steps:

  1. Preparation: We numb the tooth and place a rubber dam to keep the area clean and dry.

  2. Cleaning: An opening is created to remove infected pulp and bacteria. The canals are then thoroughly cleaned and shaped.

  3. Sealing: The canals are filled and sealed with specialized materials. A temporary filling may be placed if more than one visit is needed.

  4. Restoration: A permanent filling or crown is placed by your general dentist to protect the tooth and restore its functionality.

Mild sensitivity is common as the tooth heals, but it usually subsides quickly. Practicing good oral hygiene and seeing your dentist for regular checkups will help ensure long-term success after your root canal treatment.

Trust Morgan Hill Endodontics for Comfortable, Effective Care

With advancements in modern dentistry, root canal therapy is far less painful than the discomfort caused by an infected or severely decayed tooth. Our experienced and dedicated team will ensure a comfortable experience and successful results. If you’re experiencing a toothache or signs of infection, don’t delay—schedule an appointment today for an evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Contact Morgan Hill Endodontics to learn how a root canal can save your tooth and relieve discomfort.

Root Canal FAQs

  • Root canal treatment is designed to relieve pain, not cause it. Modern advancements in dental technology and anesthetics ensure that a root canal procedure is as comfortable as getting a standard dental filling.

    After your root canal treatment, it’s normal for your tooth to feel sensitive for a few days, especially if there was pain or an infection beforehand. Over-the-counter pain relievers like Advil® or Tylenol® usually help manage this sensitivity. In some cases, your endodontist may prescribe medication if needed.

    It’s also common for the treated tooth to feel slightly different from your other teeth for a while. Call your endodontist for further evaluation if the symptoms do not improve.

  • No, there’s no scientific evidence to support this claim. The idea that root canal treatments contribute to systemic illnesses originates from outdated and debunked research conducted nearly a century ago. Modern studies have consistently shown that root canals are safe and effective. Root canal treatment eliminates infection from the tooth while preserving its natural structure.

  • Whenever possible, preserving your natural teeth is the ideal choice. No artificial replacement can fully match the appearance or function of a natural tooth, which is why root canal treatment is worth considering. Root canals have a high success rate, and many treated teeth last a lifetime with proper care.

    In contrast, replacing a missing tooth with a bridge or implant often requires more treatment time andmay require additional procedures involving neighboring teeth and surrounding tissues.

  • While a toothache is a common sign that root canal treatment might be needed, a lack of pain doesn’t always mean your tooth is healthy. Sometimes, a tooth with infected or damaged pulp may not cause any noticeable discomfort. Endodontists are trained to evaluate and test teeth for hidden issues and can determine if a root canal is necessary to save the tooth.

    If you’ve experienced a toothache in the past or are dealing with one now, it’s important to have it checked by an endodontist for a thorough evaluation. Don’t hesitate to call and schedule an appointment to address any discomfort or concerns.