Root Canal Therapy

Tooth pain that doesn’t go away is your body’s way of telling you something needs attention. Sensitivity to heat or pressure often points to infection inside the tooth, and that discomfort can interfere with your day. Without treatment, infection can spread and put the health of the tooth at risk.

A root canal treats the problem at its source while allowing you to keep your natural tooth. This procedure removes infection, seals the tooth, and helps restore comfort so you can move forward without extraction.

If tooth pain is affecting your routine, schedule a root canal consultation with Austin Institute of Dental Medicine in Austin, TX today.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a common dental procedure used to remove infection from inside a tooth. They relieve tooth pain almost immediately. When the inner tissue of your tooth (pulp) becomes inflamed or infected, a root canal gently cleans out the damaged area, disinfects the space, and seals the tooth to prevent future problems. The process is straightforward and typically completed in one visit.

At Austin Institute of Dental Medicine, we offer root canals as part of emergency dental care, with same-day appointments available when pain can’t wait. We always use local anesthesia to numb the area, and sedation dentistry options are available for patients who feel anxious or need added comfort. Our goal is to relieve pain quickly while preserving your natural tooth.

Do I Need a Root Canal?

We may recommend a root canal when the inner portion of a tooth becomes infected or inflamed, and a cavity filling will not resolve the infection. The best way to know for sure is with an exam and imaging, but there are several common signs that may mean you need root canal therapy, including:

  • Persistent or severe tooth pain
  • Sensitivity to heat or cold that lingers
  • Pain when biting or chewing
  • Swelling or tenderness in the gums
  • A darkened or discolored tooth
  • A pimple-like bump on the gums

We offer same-day evaluations in Austin, TX, so we can identify the cause of your pain and move forward with the right treatment quickly.

How a Root Canal Can Help Your Smile


Many people associate root canals with pain, but the reality is quite the opposite. Root canal therapy is designed to relieve pain—not cause it. With modern techniques, local anesthesia, and sedation options available at our office, the procedure is typically comfortable and efficient. 

Here are some ways your health and smile can benefit from a root canal:

By eliminating the source of infection, a root canal allows your tooth to heal and helps your smile feel healthy again.

Emergency Root Canals for Improved Tooth Preservation

Tooth infections should be considered a dental emergency because they can progress quickly. When bacteria reach the root of a tooth, pain often increases, and the surrounding area becomes vulnerable. Early treatment gives us the best opportunity to stop the problem before it spreads.

We provide emergency root canal therapy with same-day appointments, especially if you are experiencing pain or swelling. Early intervention often allows us to preserve the natural tooth and stabilize the area. By addressing the issue promptly, we help you avoid more invasive treatment and move toward relief.

Our Process for Root Canals

Whether you arrive for a scheduled visit or need emergency care, root canal treatment at AIDM follows a thoughtful, patient-centered process. Our team focuses on comfort, clarity, and precise care at every step.

Why Choose AIDM for Root Canal Care?

At Austin Institute of Dental Medicine, we deliver root canal care in a modern, state-of-the-art facility designed for precise, efficient treatment.

Root Canal FAQs

Does a root canal hurt?

Root canal therapy is designed to relieve pain, not cause it. Local anesthesia fully numbs the area, and sedation options are available for added comfort. Most patients report feeling pressure rather than pain during the procedure, followed by noticeable relief once the infection is removed and healing begins.

Do I need a dental restoration after a root canal?

In most cases, yes. After a root canal, the tooth is more vulnerable to fracture. A dental crown or restorative treatment helps protect the tooth, restore strength, and maintain proper function. We will guide you to the appropriate crown or restorative dentistry solution for long-term success.

How can I prevent the need for a root canal?

Regular dental visits allow us to catch decay and damage before infection reaches the inner tooth. Treating cavities early, protecting teeth from grinding with a nightguard, and keeping up with daily brushing and flossing all reduce the risk of needing a root canal.

What do I do to manage toothache pain until I can see a dentist?

Rinse gently with warm salt water and avoid chewing on the painful side of your mouth. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help control discomfort, and a cold compress may reduce swelling. Avoid heat or putting off care—ongoing pain should be evaluated promptly at the Austin Institute of Dental Medicine.

Enhance Your Smile Your Way

We help you achieve a custom smile with our smile design and variety of cosmetic dentistry solutions. Through Smile Design and a full range of cosmetic solutions, we help patients feel confident in their smiles without pressure or guesswork. If you’ve been holding back because of how your teeth look, a cosmetic consultation can help you explore your options with clarity.
Call today to schedule your cosmetic dentistry consultation in Austin, TX.