Root Canal Treatment in South Philadelphia

If you’ve been told you need a root canal, you may be dreading it based on its reputation. The truth? Root canal treatment today is a comfortable, routine procedure that relieves pain rather than causes it — and it’s one of the most effective ways to save a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted.

At Pera Dentistry & Aesthetics, Dr. Louis Pera & Dr. Maria Pera perform root canal therapy with a gentle approach and thorough local anesthesia. Most patients are genuinely surprised by how manageable the procedure is — and how much better they feel afterward.

What Is a Root Canal?

Inside every tooth is a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed — usually due to deep decay, a crack, or trauma — it can cause significant pain and, if untreated, lead to abscess and bone loss. Root canal therapy removes the infected or damaged pulp, cleans and disinfects the interior of the tooth, and seals it to prevent reinfection.

After a root canal, the tooth is typically restored with a crown to protect it and restore full function.

Root Canal Signs & Treatment Process

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Persistent or severe toothache, especially when biting or chewing
Prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold
Darkening or discoloration of a tooth
Swelling or tenderness in the nearby gums
A persistent pimple-like bump on the gums (a dental abscess)
A tooth that was injured or cracked

In some cases, a tooth may need root canal therapy without any obvious symptoms — which is why regular X-rays are so important.

The Root Canal Process

The area is thoroughly numbed with local anesthesia
A small opening is made in the top of the tooth
The infected or damaged pulp tissue is carefully removed
The canals inside the tooth are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected
The canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha
The opening is sealed, and a crown is typically placed at a follow-up appointment to protect the tooth

Most root canals are completed in one to two appointments and take about 60 to 90 minutes. Digital X-rays are used throughout to ensure thorough cleaning and accurate placement.

After Root Canal Treatment

Some soreness in the treated area is normal for a few days after the procedure and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most patients return to normal activity the following day. Once the final crown is placed, your restored tooth should function normally for many years — often for a lifetime with proper care.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals

Is a root canal painful?

Modern root canal therapy is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. The area is fully numbed before we begin, so you should feel pressure and movement but not pain. The procedure itself relieves the pain caused by the infected pulp — most patients feel significantly better after treatment.

How long does a root canal take?

Most root canals are completed in a single appointment of 60 to 90 minutes. Occasionally, particularly complex cases or teeth with multiple canals may require a second visit. We’ll give you a realistic timeline at your consultation.

What happens if I don't get a root canal?

An infected tooth will not heal on its own. Without treatment, the infection will spread, potentially causing a dental abscess, bone loss around the tooth, and the need for extraction. Untreated dental infections can also spread to surrounding teeth and, in serious cases, to other areas of the body. Treating the problem promptly is always the better path.

Can the tooth be saved, or will I need an extraction?

Root canal therapy is specifically designed to save the tooth. Extracting a tooth creates its own complications — neighboring teeth can shift, chewing function is affected, and bone loss at the extraction site begins over time. In most cases, saving the natural tooth through root canal therapy is the preferred outcome. Dr. Pera will be honest with you if extraction is the more appropriate option for your specific situation.

Does insurance cover root canal treatment?

Root canal therapy is typically covered as a basic or major restorative service, depending on your plan — usually at 50% to 80% after your deductible. The subsequent crown is generally covered as a major service. We’ll review your specific benefits and provide a clear cost estimate before treatment.

Ready to restore your smile?

Located at 1627 S Broad St, South Philadelphia. Coming soon to Haddonfield, NJ. If you’re experiencing dental pain, call us — we reserve time for urgent care.