Root Canal Therapy Philadelphia | Dentistry for Life

No one wants to get root canal therapy, but sometimes this procedure is necessary to save a tooth and relieve pain. A tooth can crack, which could expose the tooth root, which can cause major sensitivity and pain. Tooth decay can lead to an infected root if left untreated, which can cause severe tooth pain and even a tooth abscess. If you are suffering from a severe toothache, at Dentistry for Life in Philadelphia Root canal therapy is offered and our office hours are seven days a week, so you don't have to wait for a solution.

We will determine whether Root canal therapy is the right treatment. Don't try to endure the pain. It won't go away or get better on its own. Find out what's going on with your oral health and get the restorative dentistry you need now. At Dentistry for Life we strive to provide the best Root canal therapy Philadelphia has to offer.

Root Canal patient model receiving dental care in a dental office

What is Root Canal Therapy?

Knowing what's ahead can make it easier to accept daunting dental treatment. Root canal therapy, also known as endodontics, is a procedure involving the meticulous removal of the infected nerve and pulp from the root of the problem tooth.

Once the canal has been fully cleaned, the area is disinfected. These steps relieve the pain that the infected root is causing. The root canals are then sealed with a filler that is designed to reduce tooth sensitivity and prevent further infection.

The entire root canal procedure can usually be completed in one visit to our dental office. There may be a second part of the treatment to undergo, however. If the tooth itself, and not just the tooth root, is in jeopardy, a porcelain or ceramic dental crown may be necessary to stabilize the tooth. The crown is customized to match your teeth in color and adjusted for shape and size, so it looks natural. Once bonded in place, the crown protects the tooth and allows you to bite and chew comfortably, and normally.

Signs You May Need Root Canal Therapy

Some warning signs are loud, like a sharp, persistent toothache. Others are more subtle, like temperature sensitivity that doesn’t go away, tenderness around a single tooth, or a change in color that wasn’t there before. You might notice swelling near the gums, pain when chewing, or just a sense that something doesn’t feel right. These symptoms don’t always mean a root canal is necessary, but they are strong indicators that something deeper is going on beneath the surface of the tooth.

The Benefits of Getting It Done

When a tooth is badly infected or damaged, root canal therapy can save it, plain and simple. People often come in expecting the worst and leave relieved, wondering why they waited so long. The biggest benefit is pain relief. But equally important is keeping your natural tooth intact, avoiding extraction, and stopping the infection from spreading. You also get to hold on to normal chewing function, avoid the shifting that happens when a tooth is lost, and walk out of our office knowing you took care of the problem at its source.

Easing the Worry About Root Canal Therapy

Understandably, some patients are very apprehensive when it comes to root canal therapy, especially since this often requires emergency dentistry.

There isn't always room to mentally prepare for the dental work, and you're likely in so much pain at that point that any additional stress can make you even more anxious. Sedation dentistry is available for many patients. Thanks to laughing gas, oral sedation, or both, we can help our patients find a calm space so pain relief can be administered, the procedure can be completed without interruption, and the dental restoration is finished sooner rather than later. When you're less anxious, we can clearly focus on the work at hand, knowing that you are comfortable.

It is our goal at Dentistry for Life to make every procedure easier for you, whether it's Root canal therapy or otherwise.

Allow us to help you take care of your teeth and gums. If you are experiencing severe tooth pain, contact us immediately so you can be seen as soon as possible and have your discomfort diagnosed and eliminated. Talk to our Philadelphia dentists today.

When Is Root Canal Therapy Necessary?

Within each tooth is a root canal that contains nerves, blood vessels, and soft tissue. Collectively, these elements make up the dental pulp, which can be damaged when there is mouth trauma or severe tooth decay. Left untreated, an infection can develop, cause severe tooth pain, or even a tooth abscess, and eventually lead to worse issues. Tooth loss can occur with an untreated, infected root as well, if the infection spreads into the surrounding jawbone.

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, contact us right away for treatment:

Severe pain when chewing or applying any pressure to the teeth
Prolonged sensitivity to cold and heat
Gum swelling or tenderness
Tooth discoloration

As undesirable as this procedure may be, root canal therapy can save a tooth, prevent abscess or further infection, and eliminate the need for tooth extraction and more involved dental restorations, like dental implants.

Your Consultation at Dentistry for Life

Not sure if you need a root canal? That’s what we’re here for. During your consultation, we’ll examine the area, take any necessary X-rays, and give you honest answers. If it’s not a root canal situation, we’ll explain what’s going on and talk about your options. If treatment is needed, we’ll make sure you understand each step—no surprises, no pressure, just the kind of care that puts your comfort first.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Root canal therapy has a reputation it doesn’t deserve. The truth is, the procedure itself is fairly straightforward and much less intimidating than most people think. You’ll be completely numb during treatment, and we’ll talk you through what’s happening every step of the way. Once the inside of the tooth is cleaned out and the infection is removed, the area is sealed to protect against further damage. In some cases, we’ll place a temporary filling and bring you back for a crown, especially if the tooth needs extra reinforcement. Start to finish, our focus is on comfort, precision, and preserving your smile.

Recovery: What It’s Like After Treatment

Most patients are surprised by how easy the recovery is. You might feel some tenderness for a couple of days, especially if the infection was advanced or the tooth was inflamed. That’s your body healing. We’ll walk you through exactly how to care for the area, recommend a soft diet for a short time, and let you know what’s normal and what’s not. There’s no long downtime, and many people return to work the next day. If anything comes up post-treatment, we’re here—same-day, next-day, weekends included.

Aftercare and the Importance of a Crown

Once the root canal is done, the tooth is no longer painful, but it’s also not quite as strong. Back teeth especially take on a lot of pressure when you bite or chew, which is why we typically recommend a crown. A crown wraps around the treated tooth like a protective shell, restoring full function and preventing future cracks or fractures. It’s the final step in the process, and it ensures the tooth you saved can keep working for you long term.

Why Patients Choose Use

People come to us for different reasons. Some are in pain and need help right away. Others want answers they can trust. And many are just looking for a dental team that listens. We’re here for all of it. As the official dentists of the 76ers and Phillies, we’re trusted by some of Philadelphia’s most recognizable smiles—but our focus is on everyday care for everyday patients. We offer appointments seven days a week, use the latest tools to make treatment easier, and create an experience that’s grounded in compassion and respect.

Root Canal Frequently Asked Questions

Is the procedure painful?

No. You’ll be fully numb, and we take extra steps to make sure you stay comfortable.

Will I need a crown afterward?

In most cases, yes—especially for molars. It helps protect the tooth and keep it strong.

How long does the treatment take?

Usually between 60 to 90 minutes. Some cases require a follow-up for crown placement.

Can I go to work the next day?

Yes. Most patients return to normal activity the following day.

Do you take emergencies?

Absolutely. We’re open every day of the week and offer emergency dental care, including same-day root canals when needed.

Schedule a Consultation

Philadelphia dentist offers saturday and sunday appointments.

Our office is located at 1601 Walnut Street #1217 in Philadelphia. We offer appointments seven days a week to make dental care convenient for you and your schedule:

Root Canal Therapy

in Philadelphia, PA

What is Root Canal Therapy?

Signs You May Need Root Canal Therapy

The Benefits of Getting It Done

Easing the Worry About Root Canal Therapy

When Is Root Canal Therapy Necessary?

Your Consultation at Dentistry for Life

What to Expect During the Procedure

Recovery: What It’s Like After Treatment

Aftercare and the Importance of a Crown

Why Patients Choose Use

Root Canal Frequently Asked Questions

Before & Afters

Schedule a Consultation

Root Canal Therapy in Philadelphia, PA

What is Root Canal Therapy?

Signs You May Need Root Canal Therapy

The Benefits of Getting It Done

Easing the Worry About Root Canal Therapy

When Is Root Canal Therapy Necessary?

Your Consultation at Dentistry for Life

What to Expect During the Procedure

Recovery: What It’s Like After Treatment

Aftercare and the Importance of a Crown

Why Patients Choose Use

Root Canal Frequently Asked Questions

Before & Afters

Schedule a Consultation

Root Canal Therapy

in Philadelphia, PA