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Root Canal Therapy

Nobody likes going to the Tempe dentist, but the crew at Okun make it as much as it can be. I originally visited due to a word of mouth recommendation; I go back because of how excellent they are at customer service and quality dentistry. Particular note to Gina, Laura, Patsy, and Dr.Styskal!

- Bill Lewis
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Dentist in blue gloves examining patient's jaw during dental checkup at clinic.

Root canals are tiny passageways that branch off from beneath the top of the tooth, coursing their way vertically downward, until they reach the tip of the root.

All teeth have between one and four root canals.

Many tooth problems involve infections that spread to the pulp, which is the inner chamber of the tooth containing blood vessels, nerves and other tissues. When the infection becomes worse, it can begin affecting the roots. A traumatic injury to a tooth can also compromise the pulp, leading to similar problems.

A diseased inner tooth brings a host of problems including pain and sensitivity as the first indications of a problem. However, inside a spreading infection can cause small pockets of pus to develop, which can lead to an abscess.

Root canal therapy is a remarkable treatment with a very high rate of success, and involves removing the diseased tissue, halting the spread of infection and restoring the healthy portion of the tooth. In fact, root canal therapy is designed to save a problem tooth; before the procedure was developed and gained acceptance, the only alternative for treating a diseased tooth was extraction.

Procedure

Root canal therapy usually entails one to three visits. During the first visit, a small hole is drilled through the top of the tooth and into the inner chamber. Diseased tissue is removed, the inner chamber cleansed and disinfected, and the tiny canals reshaped. The cleansed chamber and canals are filled with an elastic material and medication designed to prevent infection. If necessary, the drilled hole is temporarily filled until a permanent seal is made with a crown.

Most patients who have root canal experience little or no discomfort or pain, and enjoy a restored tooth that can last almost as long as its healthy original.

Dentist in white coat holding transparent tooth model showing internal pulp chamber and root canal anatomy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Root canal therapy removes the infected or damaged pulp inside a tooth, cleans and disinfects the canals, then seals them to prevent further infection. This procedure helps save your natural tooth instead of extracting it. 

You may need a root canal if you’re experiencing persistent pain, sensitivity, or swelling due to infection in the pulp. Trauma, deep decay, or abscesses can all compromise the internal structure of the tooth. 

On average, the treatment takes one to three visits. During the first appointment, the dentist removes the diseased tissue, cleans the canals, and may place a temporary filling. 

Most patients report little to no discomfort during the procedure because local anesthesia is used. After treatment, there may be mild soreness, but the goal is to eliminate the pain caused by infection. 

After the canals are cleaned and sealed, a permanent restoration (often a crown) is placed to protect and strengthen the tooth, restoring its full function and preventing future damage. 

Yes — with proper care, root-canal-treated teeth can last nearly as long as healthy, untreated teeth. The treatment has a high success rate when the canals are properly cleaned, sealed, and restored. 

If symptoms persist or re‑infection occurs, Okun Dentistry offers endodontic retreatment to remove the previous filling, clean deeper, and reseal the canals. 

Yes — sedation options are available at our Tempe office. If you experience anxiety, you can request oral conscious sedation or nitrous oxide to help you relax during the procedure. 

Often, yes. Saving your natural tooth helps maintain jawbone structure, avoids the complications of tooth loss, and can reduce the long-term cost and complexity compared to extraction followed by replacement.

Call our Tempe office at (480) 967-8763 to request a consultation. We will evaluate your symptoms, take any necessary X‑rays, and explain your treatment options so you can make an informed decision.