Root Canal Therapy in North Dallas, TX
Modern root canals relieve pain and save your natural tooth, typically as comfortable as a routine filling.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nicole Houshmand, DDS · Updated June 2026
- Persistent or severe toothache that worsens when biting or with pressure
- Prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold after the source is removed
- A tooth that has darkened or a pimple-like bump on nearby gum tissue
- Patients who want to save a tooth rather than extract it
A root canal removes infected or inflamed tissue from inside a tooth, relieves the pain, and saves the natural tooth. Modern root canals are typically as comfortable as getting a filling, the tooth is fully numbed before we begin, and the procedure takes 60–90 minutes. Cost: $900–$1,500; most PPO plans cover 50–80%.
Does a root canal hurt?
A root canal is needed when the soft tissue inside a tooth (the pulp) becomes infected or inflamed, usually due to deep decay, a crack, or trauma. Left untreated, an infected tooth causes increasing pain, spreads infection to surrounding teeth and bone, and will eventually require extraction. A root canal removes the infection, saves the tooth, and relieves the pain.
What to expect
Diagnosis
X-rays and clinical examination confirm infection and determine whether a root canal is necessary or if a different treatment will work.
Pulp removal
Under local anesthesia, the infected pulp is removed and the canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected.
Canal sealing
The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha and sealed to prevent reinfection.
Crown placement
A crown is placed at a follow-up appointment to protect the treated tooth and restore full function.
| Step | What Happens | What You Feel |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Anesthesia | Tooth and surrounding tissue fully numbed | Mild pinch of injection; tooth numb within 2–3 minutes |
| 2. Access opening | Small opening made through crown of tooth | Pressure only, no pain |
| 3. Pulp removal | Infected tissue removed with fine instruments | Pressure; most patients feel nothing |
| 4. Shaping & irrigation | Canal shaped and flushed with antibacterial solution | Slight pressure; no pain |
| 5. Sealing | Canal filled with biocompatible material (gutta-percha) | Pressure only |
| 6. Crown (follow-up visit) | Porcelain crown placed to protect the tooth | Mild soreness 1–3 days; managed with ibuprofen |
“Dr. Houshmand performed my wisdom tooth removal, two cavities filled, and a cleaning all on the same day! I was in great hands, and they were very attentive to keeping me comfortable during the whole process. We love this office!”
Frequently asked questions
The procedure itself is performed under local anesthesia and should be painless. You may feel pressure during the treatment, but you should not feel sharp pain. If at any point you feel discomfort, let us know and we'll pause to adjust the anesthetic. Most patients are surprised by how comfortable it is.
Common signs include a persistent toothache, severe sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the stimulus is removed, a darkening tooth, swelling in the gum near a tooth, or a persistent pimple-like bump on the gum. Not all of these symptoms are present in every case, the only way to confirm is with an exam and X-ray.
The tooth removal itself may cost less upfront. But replacing a missing tooth, with an implant or bridge, typically costs significantly more than a root canal and crown combined. Saving your natural tooth is almost always the better long-term investment for your oral health and your wallet.
Most root canals can be completed in 60–90 minutes. Complex cases or teeth with multiple canals may require a second appointment. A crown is placed at a separate appointment, usually 1–2 weeks after the root canal is complete.
Most patients can return to normal activities the same day. Mild soreness and sensitivity for 2–3 days is normal. Over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) are typically sufficient for managing discomfort.