6005 Century Oaks Dr. Suite 100 Chattanooga, TN 37416
423.344.3884

Root Canal Therapy

A root canal is a dental procedure to save a damaged or infected tooth by removing the pulp, cleaning the canal system contained in each tooth root, and sealing it. This treatment relieves pain, prevents infection, and restores tooth function.

What is Root Canal Therapy?

If you’ve been told you may need a root canal, it’s normal to feel nervous or unsure. Many patients worry about pain or discomfort, but modern root canal treatment is designed to relieve pain—not cause it. In fact, most patients say the procedure feels similar to getting a filling.

A root canal is used to treat a tooth that has become infected or inflamed due to deep decay, cracks, or injury. Inside the tooth is soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves that sense temperature and pressure. When this area becomes infected, it can cause symptoms such as lingering tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling of the gums, or discomfort when chewing. Without treatment, the infection can worsen and may lead to abscesses or tooth loss.

At Harrison Family Dentistry in Chattanooga, your comfort is our top priority. We take time to listen to your concerns, explain each step of the process, and ensure you feel relaxed and supported throughout your visit. During gentle root canal treatment in Chattanooga, the infected tissue is carefully removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected. Local anesthesia is used so you remain comfortable the entire time.

Because the nerve inside the tooth only provides sensation, removing it does not affect your ability to bite, chew, or smile normally. Once the root canal is complete, the tooth is sealed and often restored with a custom dental crown in Chattanooga to protect it and restore strength.

If you are experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity and are worried about needing a root canal, we’re here to help. Contact Harrison Family Dentistry for calm, compassionate root canal care in Chattanooga, TN. Prompt treatment can ease discomfort, stop infection, and help you keep your natural tooth—often in just one visit.

Does a root canal hurt?

Modern root canal treatment is designed to relieve pain caused by infection. With local anesthesia, most patients say the procedure feels similar to getting a filling and is very manageable.

How do I know if I need a root canal?

Signs you may need a root canal include lingering tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling of the gums, pain when chewing, or a darkened tooth. A dental exam and X-rays are needed to confirm the diagnosis.

How long does a root canal take?

Most root canal treatments can be completed in one visit, typically lasting 60–90 minutes. More complex cases may require a second appointment.

Will my tooth feel normal after a root canal?

Yes. Once healed and restored with a filling or crown, your tooth should feel and function like your natural teeth. Mild soreness for a few days is normal and temporary.

Why is a crown often needed after a root canal?

After a root canal, the tooth can become more fragile. A dental crown helps protect the tooth, restore strength, and prevent future damage or fracture.

What happens if I delay root canal treatment?

Delaying treatment allows infection to spread, which can lead to increased pain, abscess formation, bone loss, and possible tooth loss. Early treatment is the best way to relieve discomfort and save your tooth.

Full-Width Google Map Embed

Contact Us

Would you like to have one of our welcoming team members reach out to you?

Please provide your contact information in the form below, and we will contact you at your convenience. Whether you have inquiries about our services, need assistance with scheduling an appointment, or require additional details, our team is here to assist you. We value your time and are committed to responding promptly to your request. We look forward to connecting with you and addressing your dental needs.

Uh-oh! There was an error. Please check the form.

Success! Thanks for reaching out! We will contact you ASAP during our regular business hours.

By submitting this form, you hereby provide your express consent to be contacted by telephone, electronic mail, or text message, and you acknowledge and agreeto the Privacy Policy that any such telephone communications may be recorded for purposes of quality control and training. This form, as well as any subsequent electronic mail or text message communications, shall not be utilized for the transmission of protected health information, unless said transmission is HIPAA secured. We expressly disclaim any and all warranties, whether express or implied, regarding the privacy, security, or confidentiality of any information submitted through this form.

Contact Us

Would you like to have one of our welcoming team members reach out to you?

Please provide your contact information in the form below, and we will contact you at your convenience. Whether you have inquiries about our services, need assistance with scheduling an appointment, or require additional details, our team is here to assist you. We value your time and are committed to responding promptly to your request. We look forward to connecting with you and addressing your dental needs.

Uh-oh! There was an error. Please check the form.

Success! Thanks for reaching out! We will contact you ASAP during our regular business hours.

By submitting this form, you hereby provide your express consent to be contacted by telephone, electronic mail, or text message, and you acknowledge and agreeto the Privacy Policy that any such telephone communications may be recorded for purposes of quality control and training. This form, as well as any subsequent electronic mail or text message communications, shall not be utilized for the transmission of protected health information, unless said transmission is HIPAA secured. We expressly disclaim any and all warranties, whether express or implied, regarding the privacy, security, or confidentiality of any information submitted through this form.

Contact Us

Would you like to have one of our welcoming team members reach out to you?

Please provide your contact information in the form below, and we will contact you at your convenience. Whether you have inquiries about our services, need assistance with scheduling an appointment, or require additional details, our team is here to assist you. We value your time and are committed to responding promptly to your request. We look forward to connecting with you and addressing your dental needs.

Uh-oh! There was an error. Please check the form.

Success! Thanks for reaching out! We will contact you ASAP during our regular business hours.

By submitting this form, you hereby provide your express consent to be contacted by telephone, electronic mail, or text message, and you acknowledge and agreeto the Privacy Policy that any such telephone communications may be recorded for purposes of quality control and training. This form, as well as any subsequent electronic mail or text message communications, shall not be utilized for the transmission of protected health information, unless said transmission is HIPAA secured. We expressly disclaim any and all warranties, whether express or implied, regarding the privacy, security, or confidentiality of any information submitted through this form.