Restorative & Gum Care
Root Canal in San Rafael, CA
Save your natural tooth and relieve pain — comfortably.
Despite their reputation, root canals are a gentle, effective way to stop pain and rescue a badly infected tooth. At Dental Studio of Marin, we use modern techniques to make treatment comfortable, so you can keep your natural tooth for years to come.
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Root Canal Treatment in San Rafael
When decay or injury reaches the soft inner pulp of a tooth, it can cause serious pain and infection — and without treatment, the tooth may be lost entirely. A root canal removes the infected pulp, cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent reinfection. Far from being something to dread, a root canal actually relieves pain and lets you keep a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Certain symptoms suggest the inner tooth may be infected and in need of treatment.
- Persistent Tooth Pain Ongoing or throbbing pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure.
- Sensitivity to Hot & Cold Lingering discomfort even after the source is removed.
- Swelling or Tenderness Swollen gums or a pimple-like bump near the tooth.
- Darkening Tooth A tooth that changes color may signal internal damage.
Comfortable, Modern Treatment
Today’s root canals are typically no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. We thoroughly numb the area, and modern instruments make the process efficient and precise. Most patients are surprised by how smooth the experience is — and by the immediate relief they feel once the infection and pain are gone.
Protecting the Tooth Afterward
After a root canal, the treated tooth is often restored with a crown to protect it and return it to full strength, especially for back teeth that handle heavy chewing. We’ll discuss the best way to restore your tooth so it stays strong and functional for the long term, letting you keep your natural smile intact.
Why Saving Your Tooth Matters
Nothing functions quite like your natural tooth. By choosing a root canal over extraction, you preserve your bite, keep neighboring teeth from shifting, and avoid the need for a bridge or implant later. It’s almost always worth saving a natural tooth when we can — and a root canal makes that possible.
Root Canal FAQ
- What is a root canal?
- A root canal removes infected pulp from inside a tooth, then cleans, disinfects, and seals it to relieve pain and save the tooth.
- Does a root canal hurt?
- With modern techniques and anesthesia, a root canal is typically about as comfortable as getting a filling, and it relieves existing pain.
- How do I know if I need a root canal?
- Persistent pain, lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, or a darkening tooth can all be signs. An exam and X-ray confirm it.
- How long does a root canal take?
- Most root canals are completed in one or two visits, depending on the tooth and the extent of the infection.
- Will I need a crown after my root canal?
- Often, yes. A crown protects the treated tooth and restores full strength, especially for back teeth used in chewing.
- What happens if I don’t treat an infected tooth?
- Untreated infection can spread, cause severe pain, and lead to losing the tooth, so timely treatment is important.
- How long does a treated tooth last?
- With proper restoration and care, a tooth treated with a root canal can last a lifetime.
- What should I do if I have tooth pain?
- Contact our San Rafael office right away so we can evaluate the tooth and relieve your discomfort as soon as possible.
A MORE CONSIDERED APPROACH
Dr. Mehdi Salek, DDS
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