St Joseph, MO
201 South 10th Street
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Root canal treatment available near you

A root canal can help relieve pain, treat infection, and save a damaged tooth from extraction.

When do I need root canal treatment?

You may need a root canal if the soft tissue inside your tooth becomes inflamed or infected because of deep decay, cracks, chips, or repeated treatment.

Tooth painSwellingHot or cold sensitivityPain when biting

Treating infection

If the inside of a tooth becomes infected, root canal treatment removes the damaged tissue, cleans the canals, and seals the tooth to help prevent further infection.

The treatment process

The dentist numbs the area, removes infected tissue, cleans the inside of the tooth, and fills the space. A crown may be recommended afterward to protect it.

Root canal treatment diagram

Root canal symptoms

The most common signs include tooth pain, swelling, sensitivity, discoloration, or pain when chewing.

  • Tooth pain
  • Gum swelling
  • Sensitivity
  • Tooth discoloration
  • Pain when biting
Patient with tooth sensitivity

What happens during a root canal procedure?

Your dentist removes infected tissue, cleans and disinfects the tooth, fills the canals, and restores the tooth so it can function comfortably again.

How does a root canal treatment work?

1

Access the tooth

A small opening provides access to the inside of the tooth.

2

Remove infection

Damaged tissue is removed and the canals are cleaned.

3

Fill the canals

The clean canals are sealed with a dental material.

4

Restore the tooth

A filling or crown protects the tooth and restores function.

Finding the right dentist for your root canal

A root canal can feel stressful, but the right care team can make the process clear and comfortable.

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Dentist helping a patient understand treatment

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Ask about available offers and payment options before treatment begins.

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Save even more in 2026

We offer financing options and support to help make root canal treatment more affordable.

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Smiling root canal patient

Root canal frequently asked questions

Do root canals hurt?

The tooth is numbed during treatment, and the team checks your comfort throughout the visit.

What is a root canal?

It is a treatment that removes infected tissue from inside a tooth and seals the canals.

What is the cost of a root canal?

Cost depends on the tooth, treatment complexity, restoration, and insurance.

What happens during a root canal?

The infected tissue is removed, the canals are cleaned and filled, and the tooth is restored.

How long does a root canal take?

Timing varies, but many treatments are completed in one or two visits.

Is a root canal an emergency?

Severe pain, swelling, or infection should be evaluated promptly.

Can a root canal save my tooth?

Yes. Root canal treatment is designed to preserve a tooth that might otherwise need extraction.

Do I need a crown after a root canal?

A crown is often recommended, especially for back teeth.

How long is root canal recovery?

Mild tenderness can occur for a few days and usually improves steadily.

Can I eat after a root canal?

Wait until numbness fades and follow the care instructions provided by your dentist.

Can root canals get infected again?

Reinfection is possible, so contact the office if symptoms return.

How can I prevent needing a root canal?

Daily home care, regular exams, and early treatment of decay can reduce risk.

Caring for you throughout your root canal

We explain each step before, during, and after treatment so you know what to expect.

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Our Doctors' Affiliations

ADA
American Dental Association
AAO
Orthodontic Association
AGD
General Dentistry
Missouri
Dental Association
Invisalign
Provider Network
Dental
Excellence Group