Root Canal

Root canal therapy is a tooth-saving procedure used when the inner tissue of a tooth becomes infected or badly irritated. At Shpritz Family Dental, root canals are performed to remove the source of infection, relieve discomfort, and preserve your natural tooth so you can maintain a stable, functional bite.

A root canal may be recommended when a deep cavity, crack, or injury allows bacteria to reach the pulp inside the tooth. Symptoms can include lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, pain when chewing, swelling, or tenderness in the surrounding gums. Sometimes the problem is discovered on an exam or digital X-ray even without strong symptoms, which is why routine checkups are important.

During treatment, the tooth is thoroughly numbed to keep you comfortable. Your dentist creates a small access opening, removes the infected tissue, and cleans and disinfects the canals within the roots. The space is then filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to reduce the risk of reinfection. Because a treated tooth can become more fragile, a crown is often placed afterward—especially on back teeth—to restore strength and protect it during chewing.

Many patients are surprised by how manageable modern root canal treatment is. Most people return to normal routines quickly, with only mild soreness for a few days. Your dental team will provide aftercare guidance, including how to manage tenderness and when to schedule the final restoration.

Keeping your natural tooth helps preserve alignment, chewing efficiency, and overall oral stability. Shpritz Family Dental will explain your options clearly and guide you through each step, helping you move from pain and infection toward a healthier, more comfortable smile.