Last updated: August 2026
If your dentist has recommended a root canal, you might be feeling a mix of concern and curiosity. The term often carries a reputation for being painful, but the reality is very different. Modern dentistry has made root canal treatment a routine, comfortable procedure that can relieve tooth pain.
So, what is a root canal, and why would you need one? This guide walks you through everything you need to know, from symptoms and procedure steps to recovery and long-term outcomes, so that you can feel confident about your care.
Key takeaways
- Root canal treatment removes infected or inflamed pulp from inside a tooth so the tooth can be cleaned, sealed, and preserved when appropriate
- Modern anesthetics and techniques help make root canal treatment more comfortable for patients
- Most procedures take between 60 and 90 minutes, although treatment time can vary by tooth and case
- Mild soreness or chewing sensitivity can occur for a few days after treatment
The American Association of Endodontists (AAE) reports a success rate of more than 90% for root canal treatment1
- What does a root canal do?
- Why would someone need a root canal?
- How do I know if I need a root canal?
- How is a root canal performed?
- How long does a root canal take?
- Do root canals hurt?
- Root canal recovery: What to expect
- How much does a root canal cost?
- Root canal vs. tooth extraction
- Root canal treatment at Columbia Smiles
- Frequently asked questions
What does a root canal do?
A root canal treatment, also called root canal therapy, is a procedure used to treat infection or damage inside a tooth. At the center of every tooth is soft tissue called pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels.
When this pulp becomes infected or inflamed, a root canal is performed to remove the damaged pulp, clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth, and seal it to prevent further infection. The goal of a root canal is to save your natural tooth and restore normal function so that the tooth does not have to be removed.
Why would someone need a root canal?
You may need a root canal when the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected or inflamed. If left untreated, this infection can worsen and lead to serious complications.
Common causes of infection or inflammation include:
- Deep tooth decay
- A cracked or chipped tooth
- Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
- Trauma or injury to the tooth
How do I know if I need a root canal?
There are several signs you might need a root canal, some of these include:
- Persistent or severe tooth pain
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
- Swollen or tender gums
- A darkened or discolored tooth
- A small bump (abscess) on the gums
However, some patients experience no symptoms at all. Problems are sometimes only detected through dental X-rays during routine exams.
How is a root canal performed?
Understanding the root canal procedure and knowing what to expect can make the process less intimidating. During a root canal procedure, you can expect the following:
- Local anesthesia: The area is numbed to ensure comfort
- Access opening: A small opening is made in the tooth
- Pulp removal: The infected pulp is carefully removed
- Cleaning and shaping: The inner canals are cleaned and shaped
- Filling the canals: The space is filled with gutta-percha, a biocompatible material
- Sealing the tooth: The tooth is sealed to prevent reinfection
- Final restoration: A crown is often placed to protect the tooth
How long does a root canal take?
If you’re wondering how long a root canal takes, most procedures last between 60 and 90 minutes. Front teeth typically take less time, while molars may take longer due to multiple canals. In some cases, two visits may be required to complete the root canal.
Do root canals hurt?
One of the biggest concerns patients have is: Do root canals hurt? Because of modern anesthesia and techniques, the procedure itself is almost painless. Most patients say it feels similar to getting a filling for a cavity.
After the procedure, you may experience mild pain or soreness at the root canal site for a day or two, but this is temporary and usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Root canal recovery: What to expect
Recovery after a root canal is generally smooth and straightforward. Typical root canal recovery time may include:
- Mild soreness for 2–3 days
- Sensitivity when chewing initially
- Gradual return to normal function
To support healing, stick to soft foods for the first few days, avoid chewing on the treated side, and follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions. Most patients can resume normal activities the next day.
How much does a root canal cost?
There isn’t one standard cost for a root canal. Root canal cost without insurance depends on the tooth being treated, the complexity of the case, and whether a final restoration, such as a filling or crown, is needed. AAE notes that molars are generally more complex to treat and may cost more.3
A root canal and a crown aren’t directly comparable because they serve different purposes. Root canal treatment addresses infected or inflamed pulp inside the tooth, while a crown may be recommended afterward to restore and protect the tooth. An extraction may have a lower upfront cost in some cases, but replacing the missing tooth with a bridge or a dental implant can increase the overall treatment cost.
Dental insurance may cover a portion of the cost of root canal treatment, but coverage varies by plan. Deductibles, annual maximums, network requirements, and other benefits can affect your out-of-pocket cost. The best way to understand what your root canal will cost is to review your individual insurance benefits and contact Columbia Smiles for a personalized treatment estimate.
Root canal vs. tooth extraction
Saving your natural tooth is almost always the better option. A root canal allows you to maintain natural chewing function, avoid the shifting of surrounding teeth, and eliminate the need for implants or bridges. While a tooth extraction may seem simpler, it often leads to more complex and costly treatments down the line.
Root canal treatment at Columbia Smiles
At Columbia Smiles, patient comfort and long-term outcomes are top priorities. Our team carefully evaluates each case to determine the best course of action for your dental health.
For more complex cases, we work closely with trusted endodontic specialists to help you receive the highest level of care. From diagnosis to restoration, we guide you through every step of the process.
Led by Dr. Michael Hsu, Columbia Smiles serves patients in Columbia, MD, and surrounding communities. For those exploring treatment options, you can learn more about our root canal therapy and how it can help preserve your natural teeth.
If you’re experiencing symptoms or have been told you may need a root canal, scheduling an evaluation is the first step toward relief. Call 410.690.4855 or schedule an appointment to get started.
Frequently asked questions
According to the American Association of Endodontists, root canals can have a success rate of more than 90%,1 and many treated teeth last a lifetime with proper dental care.
A failed root canal generally means the treated tooth did not heal as expected or developed a new issue later. Any new or worsening pain, swelling, or discomfort should be evaluated. Depending on the cause, additional endodontic treatment may be considered.
A root canal and a crown aren’t typically competing treatment choices. A root canal treats inflamed or infected pulp inside the tooth, while a crown may be used afterward to restore and protect the tooth.
Neither treatment is universally better. The appropriate choice depends on how deeply decay or damage affects the tooth. A dentist needs to evaluate the tooth to determine the appropriate treatment.
In most cases, yes. Teeth, especially molars, require a crown after a root canal to protect against cracking and to restore full function.
Without treatment, the infection will worsen. The tooth may die, and the infection can spread to surrounding tissues or even the bloodstream. Eventually, tooth extraction may become the only option.
If a dentist has recommended a root canal due to an infection, it’s best to have the tooth evaluated and treated as recommended rather than waiting for symptoms to resolve on their own. Your dentist can explain what is happening with the tooth and help you understand the appropriate next step based on your specific situation.
The cost varies depending on the tooth and the complexity of the case. Front teeth are typically less expensive than molars. Most dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of the procedure.
Coverage varies by plan. Many dental insurance plans provide some coverage for root canal treatment, but your deductible, network status, and other plan terms can affect what you pay. Review your individual dental benefits and root canal treatment estimate to understand your expected out-of-pocket responsibility.
No. Once the pulp is infected or damaged, it cannot heal without treatment. A root canal is necessary to remove the infection and save the tooth.
