Root Canal

Myth: Root canals cause pain. Fact: Root canals eliminate pain. The infection inside your tooth is what causes severe pain. Removing it brings immediate relief. With modern anesthesia and techniques, you'll feel no pain during the procedure—only pressure and vibration. You're already in pain from the infection; the root canal stops it. Most patients report that treatment is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling.

Root canal-treated teeth lose the blood supply from the nerve, making them drier and more brittle. Without a protective crown, the tooth is prone to fracture during chewing. A crown restores structural strength, protects the seal we created, and extends the life of your treated tooth. Most root canals fail without a crown. Schedule your crown within 2–4 weeks of treatment.

A root canal in Nashville typically costs $700–$1,200 depending on tooth location and complexity. Front teeth (incisors) are usually on the lower end ($700–$900), while back teeth (molars) are more complex and cost $1,000–$1,200. Most dental insurance covers 50–80% of endodontic (root canal) treatment. We provide upfront pricing and help you understand your insurance coverage. Compared to the cost of extraction plus implant replacement ($2,500+), a root canal is significantly more affordable.

Root canal therapy has a success rate of 90%+ when performed with modern techniques and followed by a protective crown. Failure is rare and usually due to a missed canal, a new infection, or the tooth being retreated too soon. If a treated tooth becomes problematic years later (rare), retreatment (a second root canal) is often successful. We use advanced techniques and microscopy to maximize success on the first treatment.

Most root canals take 60–90 minutes in a single appointment. Front teeth with straight, simple canals are usually faster (45–60 minutes). Back teeth with multiple canals or complex anatomy may take longer (90–120 minutes). Very complex cases may require a second appointment, but this is rare with modern techniques. We schedule enough time to work thoroughly and never rush.

An untreated infected tooth can lead to serious complications. The infection spreads to the root tip, forming an abscess that destroys bone. If left untreated, the infection can spread systemically, affecting your overall health. You'll eventually lose the tooth and require extraction plus replacement (implant or bridge). By then, you may also have bone loss in the jaw. Root canal therapy prevents all of these complications and saves your tooth. Don't wait—seek treatment as soon as you suspect an infected tooth.

Most patients experience minimal to no post-operative pain. Some feel mild soreness or sensitivity for 24–48 hours (similar to having a dental filling placed). This is easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. A small percentage of patients experience slight inflammation or tenderness when chewing, which resolves within a week. Severe pain after a root canal is rare and should be reported immediately.

Wait 2–3 hours until the anesthesia wears off, then you can eat soft foods immediately. Stick to cool, soft foods for the first few days (soup, yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies). Avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods that could crack the treated tooth or dislodge the temporary filling. Avoid very hot foods and drinks for 24 hours. Once your permanent crown is placed, you can resume normal eating.

Severe toothache symptoms are considered urgent and qualify for emergency treatment. If you have severe, constant pain, visible swelling, or fever, contact us immediately. We prioritize emergency root canal patients and often fit them in same-day or next-day. Don't wait and hope the pain goes away—an infected tooth won't heal on its own and will worsen. Root canal therapy provides rapid pain relief.

A properly treated root canal, combined with a protective crown and good oral hygiene, can last a lifetime. Most root canal-treated teeth function normally for 20+ years or longer. Success depends on crown placement (critical), your daily oral hygiene (brushing and flossing), attending regular checkups, and avoiding extreme stress on the tooth. Your natural tooth, even after root canal treatment, is superior to any artificial replacement.