End Tooth Pain and Save Your Smile
When the inside of a tooth becomes infected or inflamed, root canal therapy offers a safe and effective way to remove the infection while preserving the structure of your natural tooth. Contrary to the old myths, today’s root canals are no more uncomfortable than getting a filling—and they often provide immediate relief from pain.
At Black Mountain Dental, Dr. Heeyup Ghim uses modern tools and advanced techniques to make root canal treatment fast, precise, and as comfortable as possible.
When Is Root Canal Therapy Needed?
Root canals are used to treat teeth with damage or infection inside the pulp (nerve tissue). You may need a root canal if you have:
- Persistent or severe toothache
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Swelling near the tooth or jaw
- Discoloration of the tooth
- A cracked or broken tooth with deep decay
If left untreated, infection inside the tooth can spread to surrounding bone and tissue. Root canal therapy stops the infection, eliminates pain, and avoids the need for extraction.
What to Expect During a Root Canal
Root canal therapy typically takes one to two appointments:
- Diagnosis and Imaging
We use digital X-rays and 3D imaging to assess the infection and determine the extent of treatment needed.
- Local Anesthesia
We numb the area to ensure a completely comfortable procedure.
- Cleaning the Root Canal
Dr. Ghim gently removes the infected tissue from inside the tooth, then disinfects and shapes the root canals.
- Filling the Tooth
The cleaned space is filled with a biocompatible material to prevent future infection.
- Final Restoration
In most cases, we complete the treatment with a custom CEREC same-day crown to protect the tooth and restore function.
Many of our patients are surprised by how quick and comfortable the process is—especially when it brings immediate relief from pain.
Advanced Technology for a Better Experience
Our use of digital tools and modern techniques makes root canal therapy more accurate, efficient, and comfortable:
- Digital X-rays and 3D imaging for precise diagnosis
- Electronic apex locators for exact canal measurement
- Rotary endodontic tools for efficient cleaning
- CEREC technology for same-day crown placement
- Gentle, conservative technique to preserve as much tooth structure as possible
Learn more about the tools that support your care on our Dental Technology page.
What Happens After a Root Canal?
After your procedure, we’ll monitor healing and ensure your final restoration fits properly. Most teeth that undergo root canal therapy will need a crown to protect and strengthen the remaining tooth structure—especially molars and premolars.
At Black Mountain Dental, we often place the final crown the same day using CEREC in-office technology, so you don’t have to return for a second appointment.
If you're comparing treatment options, a root canal is often more cost-effective and functional than tooth extraction followed by a replacement like a bridge or dental implant.