Sound Familiar?
Constant, throbbing tooth pain
Sensitivity that won't go away
Swelling around the tooth or jaw
Avoiding foods you used to enjoy
Infection spreading without treatment
Dreading what ignoring it could cost
If any of these feel familiar, relief is closer than you think.
What Happens If You Wait?
Infection Spreads
A contained infection can move to surrounding teeth, bone, or tissue if left alone.
Extraction Becomes Likely
Delaying treatment often turns a saveable tooth into one that can no longer be preserved.
Treatment Gets More Involved
A simple root canal becomes a more complex procedure the longer the infection is allowed to progress.
Costs Go Up
Treating advanced infection, bone loss, or a missing tooth costs significantly more than early intervention.
Bone Loss Begins
Ongoing infection accelerates the breakdown of the bone that supports surrounding teeth.
Daily Life Keeps Suffering
Disrupted sleep, difficulty eating, and constant distraction compound the longer you wait.
The sooner you act, the simpler and faster the path to feeling like yourself again.
What Is Root Canal Treatment, and How Does It Work?
Root canal treatment (saving an infected or severely damaged tooth) is a procedure that clears out infected or inflamed tissue from inside the tooth. Each tooth has a soft interior called the pulp, which can become infected due to deep decay, a crack, or repeated dental work. When that happens, the pulp is removed, the inner chamber is cleaned and shaped, and the tooth is sealed to prevent further infection. The result is a preserved tooth that looks, feels, and functions normally.
At Icon Dental Implant Center, we approach root canal treatment in Southfield with precision planning and technology that lets us see exactly what’s happening inside the tooth before we begin. Our Kavo CBCT imaging provides detailed 3D views of the root structure, which helps us work more accurately and plan your treatment with a clear picture of what’s involved.
Most root canals are completed in one to two visits
The natural tooth is preserved with a crown placed shortly after
According to the American Association of Endodontists, more than 15 million root canals are performed each year in the US
Common Struggles We Hear From Patients
Be our Next Success Story!
Request an appointment with one of our doctors and start your smile journey today.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
Pain relieved, often the same day
Natural tooth stays in place
Bite strength fully restored
No gap, no shifting teeth
Infection stopped at the source
Straightforward maintenance going forward
See What's Possible for Your Smile
These aren’t just teeth; they’re life-changing transformations that restore confidence and comfort. Each before-and-after photo represents a patient who trusted us with their smile journey.
Be our Next Success Story!
Request an appointment with one of our doctors and start your smile journey today.
Is Root Canal Treatment Right for You?
Have a tooth that's been causing persistent or severe pain
Are dealing with swelling, tenderness, or a visible abscess near a tooth
Have been told a tooth is infected and are looking for options beyond extraction
Notice a tooth has become unusually sensitive to heat, cold, or pressure
Want to preserve your natural tooth rather than replace it
Not Sure If Your Tooth Can Be Saved?
What to Expect During Your Root Canal Treatment
Consultation and Imaging
You'll start with a thorough evaluation. We use Kavo CBCT 3D imaging to get a precise look at the tooth's root structure, the extent of the infection, and the surrounding bone. This gives us everything we need to plan your treatment accurately before anything begins.
Numbing and Preparation
Numbing and Preparation
Cleaning and Sealing the Tooth
The infected pulp is removed and the inner canals are carefully cleaned and shaped. The tooth is then filled with a biocompatible material and sealed. You'll leave with the infection gone and the tooth intact. A temporary or permanent filling is placed the same day.
Crown Placement
In most cases, a crown is placed over the treated tooth to restore its full strength and appearance. We handle this in-house, which keeps your care efficient and consistent from one step to the next.
Ready to Put the Pain Behind You?
Root Canal Recovery: What Most Patients Experience
First 24-48 Hours
Some mild tenderness around the treated area is normal in the first day or two, particularly as the anesthetic wears off. Over-the-counter pain relief is usually enough to stay comfortable. Eating soft foods and avoiding pressure on the tooth will help. Most patients return to their regular routine the next day.
First Week
Any residual sensitivity tends to fade steadily throughout the first week. The tooth may feel slightly different as it settles, which is completely normal. Avoiding hard or crunchy foods on that side is a good idea until your crown is placed. Most patients find this stage easier than they expected going in.
Questions About Recovery? We're here to help.
Root Canal Treatment vs. Tooth Extraction: Understanding Your Options
| Factor | Root Canal Treatment | Tooth Extraction |
|---|---|---|
| Natural tooth preserved | Yes | No |
| Bone preservation | Preserved naturally | Bone loss begins over time |
| Replacement needed | No | Often yes (implant, bridge, or denture) |
| Adjacent teeth impact | None | Shifting may occur without replacement |
| Chewing function | Fully restored | Depends on replacement chosen |
| Treatment time | One to two visits | One visit, plus replacement timeline |
| Long-term maintenance | Routine dental care | Depends on replacement option |
| Initial investment | Moderate | Lower upfront, higher if replacing |
| Long-term value | High (natural tooth retained) | Variable |
Flexible Payment Plans for Your Smile
NO Credit Score Impact Until Plan Selected.
NO Credit Score Impact Until Plan Selected.
NO Credit Score Impact Until Plan Selected.
Don't Wait to Smile. Check out Our Payment Options.
Root Canal FAQs
Will a root canal hurt?
How do I know if I need a root canal?
Can I wait to see if the pain goes away on its own?
How long does the procedure take?
Do I need a crown after a root canal?
What happens if I skip the crown?
Is a root canal safe?
Will I need time off after a root canal?
What are my options if I don't want a root canal?
How long will a treated tooth last?
Still Have Questions?
