Root Canal Treatment

Forget What You've Heard. It Doesn't Have to Hurt.

Everybody has heard the root canal horror stories but at Peter Bishay DMD, the experience is nothing like that. We take special care to make the entire process simple, calm, and comfortable with little to no discomfort.

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What is a Root Canal?

Saving Your Tooth Getting to the Root of the Problem

Root canals are required when the nerve within the root of a tooth becomes infected. Leaving the infection untreated can lead to much more serious health problems so it’s important to act quickly. A canal is created, the infected root is removed, and a porcelain crown is placed leaving you with a tooth that looks and feels completely natural.

Infection reaches the nerve: When bacteria penetrate through a cavity, crack, or damaged tooth, they infect the dental pulp the soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels inside the root.
The infected pulp is removed: Dr. Bishay creates a small access point and carefully removes the infected pulp and nerve eliminating the source of your pain and stopping the spread of infection.
Sealed and restored: The canals are cleaned, shaped, and sealed with a biocompatible material. A custom porcelain crown is then placed to restore full strength and a natural appearance.

Do You Need One?

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Don’t ignore these warning signs. The sooner you act, the simpler and more comfortable the treatment becomes and the more likely we can save your tooth.

Persistent Tooth Pain

Deep, constant pain in your tooth or jaw especially pain that worsens when you bite down or apply pressure is a common sign of an infected nerve.

Sensitivity to Hot & Cold

Pain or lingering sensitivity when eating or drinking hot or cold foods that doesn't go away quickly after the source is removed.

Swollen or Tender Gums

Swelling, tenderness, or a pimple-like bump on the gums near a tooth can indicate an abscess a serious infection that requires immediate treatment.

Tooth Discoloration

A tooth that has turned dark gray or brown may indicate that the internal pulp has died or become severely infected a sign a root canal may be needed.

Cracked or Chipped Tooth

A crack or chip that reaches into the root can allow bacteria to infect the pulp even if you're not currently in pain, prompt evaluation is important.

Prolonged Pain After Dental Work

If you've had a filling, crown, or other dental work and pain has persisted longer than expected, the underlying nerve may have been affected.

Don't Live With Tooth Pain Another Day

If you’re experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity, or swelling don’t wait. Call us today and we’ll get you in as soon as possible for a comfortable, stress-free consultation.

Patient Stories

What Our Patients Are Saying

The Procedure

What to Expect Step by Step

Most root canals are completed in one to two appointments. Here’s exactly what happens:

Examination & X-Rays

Dr. Bishay examines the tooth and takes X-rays to assess the extent of the infection and confirm that a root canal is the right treatment. We discuss all your options including sedation preferences.

Anesthesia & Sedation

Local anesthesia is applied to completely numb the area. If you've chosen sedation, this is when you'll be comfortably sedated. You should feel absolutely nothing during the procedure.

Removal of Infected Pulp

A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth. The infected pulp and nerve are carefully removed from the root canals using precision instruments. The area is then thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.

Filling & Sealing the Canal

The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible rubber-like material called gutta-percha and sealed to prevent future bacterial re-entry.

Crown Placement

A custom porcelain crown is placed over the treated tooth to restore its full strength, shape, and natural appearance. You leave with a tooth that looks and feels completely natural — and a pain-free life ahead.

Real Results

See the Difference We Make

Why Get a Root Canal?

The Benefits Far Outweigh the Alternative

The benefits of having a root canal performed far outweigh dealing with the constant pain and sensitivity caused by leaving the infection untreated.

Eliminates Pain Immediately

A root canal removes the infected nerve the source of your pain giving you immediate relief and letting you get back to comfortable daily life.

Saves Your Natural Tooth

Keeping your natural tooth is almost always the best outcome. A root canal avoids extraction and the need for implants, bridges, or dentures.

Stops Infection Spreading

An untreated dental infection can spread to the jaw, neck, and beyond becoming a serious health risk. A root canal eliminates it at the source.

Natural-Looking Result

The porcelain crown placed after treatment looks and feels identical to your natural tooth nobody will ever know you had a root canal.

Cost-Effective Solution

A root canal is far more affordable than tooth extraction followed by an implant or bridge and far less disruptive to your long-term oral health.

Quick Recovery

Most patients return to normal daily activities within 24 to 48 hours. Any mild soreness fades quickly and is easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief.

Got Questions?

Root Canal FAQs

Are root canals really that painful?

No, this is the biggest myth in dentistry. Root canals relieve pain, they don’t cause it. With modern local anesthesia and sedation options, most patients report that the procedure feels no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. The pain you feel before treatment is from the infection itself, not the root canal.

How long does a root canal take?

Most root canals are completed in one to two appointments of about 90 minutes each. More complex cases with multiple canals may require additional time or a follow-up visit. The crown placement is typically scheduled as a separate appointment 1–2 weeks later.

What is sedation dentistry and is it right for me?

Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients feel deeply relaxed or even sleep through their procedure. It’s ideal for patients with dental anxiety, a strong gag reflex, or anyone who simply wants a stress-free experience. Options range from oral sedation (a pill) to IV sedation where you’re completely asleep. Dr. Bishay will help you choose the right level based on your needs.

Can I eat or drink before a root canal?

For local anesthesia only you can eat normally beforehand. If you’re having IV or deep sedation, you will need to fast for several hours before the procedure. We’ll give you specific pre-appointment instructions based on your chosen sedation level when you book.

How long is recovery after a root canal?

Most patients return to normal activities within 24 to 48 hours. You may experience mild soreness or sensitivity for a few days, easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. We’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions and are always available if you have questions during recovery.

What happens if I don't get a root canal?

Leaving an infected tooth untreated is dangerous. The infection can spread to the jawbone, surrounding teeth, and even to your neck or bloodstream creating a life-threatening situation. In most cases, the tooth will eventually need to be extracted. Acting quickly saves your tooth and protects your overall health.

Does insurance cover root canals?

Yes, most dental insurance plans cover root canal treatment, as it is considered a medically necessary procedure. Coverage typically ranges from 50–80% of the cost. Our team will verify your benefits before your appointment and clearly outline any out-of-pocket expenses. Flexible financing is available for any remaining balance.

Wake Up Pain-Free. We've Got You.

Don’t let fear keep you from getting the care you need. At Peter Bishay DMD, we hold your hand through every step and with sedation dentistry available, you can sleep through the whole thing.