At Ifantis Dental Care in Morton Grove, IL, we know that hearing the words “You might need a root canal” can be intimidating. Many patients ask “Does root canal hurt?”, “How long does a root canal take?”, or “How much does a root canal cost?” before even understanding why the procedure is necessary. By recognizing the early signs you need a root canal, you can get timely treatment, preserve your natural tooth, and avoid more complicated dental issues.
What Causes Root Canal Problems?
A root canal is often required when the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected or inflamed. Common causes include deep cavities, cracked teeth, or trauma. Ignoring these problems can lead to severe pain, swelling, and even tooth loss. Patients often wonder “how do you know if you need a root canal?” — the answer usually lies in recognizing the symptoms early.
Signs You Need a Root Canal
- Persistent Tooth Pain: If you experience throbbing or sharp pain that doesn’t go away, it might be time to search “root canal near me” or “root canal specialist near me”. The pain could mean that the pulp inside your tooth is damaged.
- Sensitivity to Hot or Cold: Lingering sensitivity after drinking coffee or eating ice cream can indicate nerve damage.
- Swelling and Tender Gums: Inflammation near the affected tooth is a common warning sign.
- Discoloration of the Tooth: Darkening can occur when the tooth pulp is infected.
- Pimples on the Gums: These small bumps can signal a tooth abscess, one of the clearest signs you need a root canal.
Root Canal Procedure and What to Expect
If you’ve confirmed you need treatment, you may ask “How long does it take to do a root canal?” or “How long do root canals take?”. In most cases at Ifantis Dental Care, a root canal can be completed in one to two visits, typically taking about 60–90 minutes per session.
Some patients worry, “Is root canal painful?” — but with modern dental technology and anesthesia, most procedures are no more uncomfortable than getting a filling.
We also show root canal before and after results so patients can see the transformation. Looking at root canals before and after pictures can help you feel confident in your treatment decision.
Root Canal Aftercare and Recovery
After the procedure, many patients ask “Can you eat after a root canal?” or “What to eat after root canal?”. Soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies are best in the first 24 hours. Following proper root canal after care instructions helps ensure a smooth recovery.
If you experience pain after root canal treatment, it’s usually mild and manageable with over-the-counter medication. However, knowing how to stop throbbing pain after root canal can be important — avoiding chewing on the treated side, sticking to soft foods, and following your dentist’s advice can help.
Longevity and Cost of a Root Canal
One of the top questions patients have is about the root canal treatment cost. Many people search “how much is a root canal”, “how much does a root canal cost”, or “cost of a root canal”. At Ifantis Dental Care, the price can vary depending on the tooth and complexity, but we offer transparent pricing and payment options.
Questions like “How much are root canals?” or “Root canal treatment near me” often come up when people are comparing dental offices. Our team is happy to provide an accurate estimate.
Another common concern is “How long does a root canal last?”. With proper care, a root canal can last a lifetime.
If you notice tooth pain, swelling, or sensitivity, don’t wait until the problem worsens. Early detection can save your tooth and your smile. Whether you’re wondering “how do you know you need a root canal”, “root canal cost”, or “how long does root canal take”, our friendly team at Ifantis Dental Care in Morton Grove, IL is here to answer all your questions and provide expert care.
Book your appointment today to get relief and restore your dental health.