What is a root canal and how does it work?
Overview
At Aspen Dental, we make getting root canals simple, with convenient locations and transparent pricing.
If you’re experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity or swelling, a root canal may be the right solution. This common treatment helps save your natural tooth, stop infection and deliver lasting relief. Aspen Dental offers walk in appointments for emergencies like tooth pain.
Your care team puts your comfort first, using advanced technology, same-day appointments and clear pricing—so you know what to expect from start to finish.
Relieves pain and saves your natural tooth by removing infection from inside the tooth
Comfort-focused treatment using modern techniques and local anesthesia
Customized care based on the tooth, often followed by a crown for protection
Clear pricing and financing options, with insurance and savings plans available
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a procedure that removes infected or inflamed pulp from inside a tooth, then cleans, shapes and seals the canals to protect it from reinfection. Saving a natural tooth is often the best option. Aspen Dental delivers root canal care that stops infection and pain.
Although the term “root canal” can sound intimidating, modern anesthesia, imaging and advanced techniques make the process predictable and comfortable as possible. Most cases are completed in a single visit of a couple hours and provide durable relief.
Types of root canals treated at Aspen Dental
Treats teeth in the front of the mouth—generally less complex.
Treats teeth between the front teeth and molars.
Treats back teeth, which often have multiple canals.
How do I know if I need a root canal?
You might need root canal treatment if you notice:
Tooth pain that doesn’t go away
Sensitivity to hot or cold even after the source is gone
Pain when chewing
A cracked or broken tooth exposing the nerve
Swelling in the gums or jaw
A tooth that looks darker than the rest
These are all signs of infection, and by treating it quickly you can save your tooth.
Experience the root canal benefits sooner with Aspen Dental
Keep your natural smile
Save the tooth you have. A root canal protects its structure and function so chewing and speaking feel natural.
Get relief that lasts
We remove the infected pulp, clean and shape the canals, and disinfect the area to stop bacteria and swelling.
Protect what comes next
Your dentist will seal the tooth and may recommend a crown to restore strength and help prevent reinfection or future fractures.
What’s the process of getting a root canal?
At Aspen Dental, your comfort and clarity come first—we’re with you every step of the way. Here’s what to expect:
At Aspen Dental, your visit starts with a focused exam and X-rays (or 3D imaging when needed). We explain what’s happening and outline a clear plan, timing and expected costs.
If necessary, we carefully numb the tooth and surrounding area to help keep you comfortable. Sensations can vary, but modern anesthesia makes treatment more manageable.
Next, we remove the inflamed or infected pulp and disinfect the inside of the tooth. We then shape the canals to help stop bacteria and protect surrounding tissue.
After your tooth is cleaned, we fill and seal the canals with a safe, biocompatible material. To protect the tooth long term, we’ll give you a dental crown for added strength.
After your treatment, we check healing, review at-home care and answer any questions. If your tooth needs more protection, we’ll schedule a dental crown to help keep it strong.
How much does a root canal cost at Aspen Dental?
The cost of root canals can vary based on:
Tooth treated (front, premolar, molar)
Condition and complexity (infection depth, number of canals)
Restoration needs (a crown is often recommended)
From benefits checks to clear estimates, we make costs easy to understand. We accept and work with most insurance providers at Aspen Dental. Please note, we do not accept Medicaid. No insurance? We’ll walk you through accessible options, including 3rd-party financing where 99% of patients are approved when they apply. Or enroll in the Aspen Dental Savings Plan¹ and save on all your dental care. At Aspen Dental, we make starting care easier.
¹The Aspen Dental Savings Plan is NOT insurance. Please see plan terms and conditions for details.
We make dental care easier
Most insurance accepted
Explore dental insurance plans we accept. We do not accept Medicaid.
Same-day appointments
With same-day availability and flexible hours, seeing your provider is easy.
Flexible financing options
99% of patients who apply for 3rd-party financing are approved.
When a root canal isn't enough
If a tooth is too damaged to save, your care team may recommend removing it and planning your next steps which might include:
Dental implants
Surgical treatment that places a small post in the jaw to hold a custom crown—so it looks and works like a real tooth.
Dental bridges
Non-surgical treatment that attaches a custom bridge to nearby teeth to fill the gap—so your bite and smile stay balanced.
Root canal FAQs
Most root canals take about 1–2 hours. The exact time depends on which tooth is being treated and how complex the procedure is. Your Aspen Dental care team will walk you through your personalized plan before starting, so you know what to expect for your appointment.
Thanks to modern anesthesia and advanced techniques, we try to help our patients feel as comfortable as possible during their treatment. You may notice some soreness or sensitivity afterward, but that can usually be managed with over-the-counter medication and after-care instructions from your care team.
Yes, in many cases it can be. If the infection inside your tooth spreads, it may affect nearby teeth, gums or even bone. That’s why it’s important to get care quickly when you notice lingering pain or swelling. Aspen Dental offers same-day appointments in many locations to treat urgent needs.
Sometimes, extraction is the only alternative—but this can lead to further dental issues if tooth replacement therapy isn't done after the extraction. A root canal preserves your natural tooth whenever possible.
Maintain a good daily oral hygiene routine including brushing twice a day, flossing and using an antiseptic rinse at night. In addition, schedule regular checkups every 6 months so your provider can check for cavities or other potential issues, and create a plan to treat.