Glendale, Arizona
Gentle Root Canal Treatment: Sedation Available
Root canals are not the procedure you are afraid of. They end the toothache that brought you in. At SmileScience Dental Spa, Dr. Dawson performs root canal therapy with modern rotary instruments, CBCT imaging, and full sedation options for anxious patients.
The Procedure Explained
What Is a Root Canal and Does It Hurt?
A root canal removes infected or inflamed pulp from inside a tooth, then cleans, seals, and restores it. The tooth stays. The pain stops.
The pulp is the soft tissue inside your tooth containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When bacteria reach the pulp through a deep cavity, crack, or trauma, the pulp becomes infected. Without treatment, that infection spreads to the bone around the root.
A root canal removes the source of infection, cleans and shapes the root canal space, fills it with a biocompatible material (gutta-percha), and seals the tooth. A crown is placed afterward to protect the tooth from fracture.
The pain people associate with root canals is the toothache before the procedure, not the procedure itself. Modern local anesthesia makes root canal treatment no more uncomfortable than getting a filling.
Know the Warning Signs
Symptoms That May Require a Root Canal
These symptoms do not always confirm a root canal is needed, but they warrant prompt evaluation. Delaying treatment allows infection to spread to surrounding bone and adjacent teeth.
Severe or Throbbing Pain
Spontaneous toothache that wakes you at night, or pain that radiates to the jaw, ear, or temple. Often the most alarming symptom.
Prolonged Sensitivity
Hot or cold sensitivity that lingers for more than a few seconds after the stimulus is removed, a sign the nerve is inflamed or dying.
Abscess or Gum Swelling
A pimple-like bump on the gum, facial swelling, or a bad taste that recurs, signs of a draining infection that will not resolve on its own.
Tooth Discoloration
A single tooth turning gray, yellow, or dark compared to adjacent teeth, which can indicate internal bleeding or pulp necrosis.
Pain When Biting
Discomfort or sharp pain when biting down or chewing on one side, especially if it comes and goes or has worsened over weeks.
Deep Cavity on X-Ray
A cavity that has reached the pulp chamber, sometimes found on routine X-rays with no current symptoms. Early treatment is easier and more predictable.
Step by Step
The Root Canal Process
Most root canals are completed in one to two appointments. Here is what happens at each stage.
Diagnosis and Imaging
Digital X-rays confirm the infection and show the number and shape of root canals. For complex anatomy, molars with curved canals, or cases with unclear X-ray findings, a CBCT 3D scan provides a precise map of the canal system before we begin.
Anesthesia and Sedation
Local anesthetic is administered. Infected tissue can reduce anesthetic effectiveness, so we use supplemental injection techniques if standard blocks do not achieve complete numbness. Oral sedation or IV sedation is available if you want deeper relaxation.
Access and Pulp Removal
A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth. Using fine rotary instruments and apex locators, infected pulp tissue is removed from the pulp chamber and each root canal to the full working length of the root.
Cleaning, Shaping, and Irrigation
The canals are shaped with rotary nickel-titanium files to a consistent taper, then irrigated with sodium hypochlorite and EDTA to remove debris, bacteria, and the smear layer from canal walls. This is the critical step that determines long-term success.
Obturation (Sealing)
The cleaned canals are filled with gutta-percha and sealer to the root apex, creating a hermetic seal that prevents bacterial re-entry. A temporary or permanent composite filling closes the access opening.
Crown Placement
A root-canal-treated tooth loses moisture over time and becomes brittle. A crown protects the tooth from fracture for decades. With our in-house PlanMeca digital lab, many crowns can be designed, milled, and placed in the same appointment as the root canal, with no temporary crown and no second visit.
For Anxious Patients
Sedation Options at SmileScience
Dental anxiety is the most common reason patients delay necessary treatment. We offer sedation at every level so the procedure becomes a non-event.
Nitrous Oxide
Light relaxation through a nasal mask. You remain fully awake and aware. Effects wear off in minutes. You can drive yourself home.
Oral Conscious Sedation
A prescription sedative taken before your appointment leaves you drowsy and deeply relaxed. Most patients have little memory of the procedure. A driver is required.
IV Sedation
Deeper sedation administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist, not the dentist. You are deeply relaxed with essentially no awareness or memory. A driver is required.
Learn more on our sedation dentistry page.
After Your Procedure
Recovery After a Root Canal
Most patients return to normal activity the same day or the following morning.
- Mild soreness or tenderness for 2 to 4 days, managed with over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen works best)
- Avoid chewing hard foods on the treated side until your crown is placed
- Take any prescribed antibiotics for the full course if active infection was present
- Resume normal brushing and flossing immediately
- Contact us if swelling increases after 48 hours or if severe pain develops suddenly
The crown appointment follows your root canal, typically within 1 to 2 weeks. Until the crown is placed, the tooth is vulnerable to fracture, so avoid using that side for anything hard or crunchy.
Understanding Your Options
Root Canal vs. Extraction: Which Is Right?
Preserving your natural tooth is almost always the better long-term choice. Here is why:
Root Canal + Crown
- Keeps the natural tooth root, preserving jawbone
- Adjacent teeth stay in position
- Full chewing function restored
- Feels and looks natural indefinitely
- Typically less expensive than extraction + implant
Extraction Without Replacement
- Adjacent teeth shift toward the gap over months
- Bone loss begins at the extraction site immediately
- Bite changes can cause wear on other teeth
- Replacement options (implant, bridge) add cost and time
- An implant requires several months and additional surgery
There are situations where a tooth cannot be saved and extraction is the right answer. Dr. Dawson will give you an honest assessment of whether the tooth is restorable before recommending treatment.
What Does a Root Canal Cost?
Root canal fees depend on the tooth being treated. Front teeth have a single, simpler canal; molars have three or four. Estimated fees at SmileScience:
- Anterior (front tooth) -- from $800
- Premolar -- from $1,000
- Molar -- from $1,200 to $1,500
- Crown after root canal -- from $1,200 (same-day in-house lab available)
Most PPO plans cover root canals at 50 -- 80% after the deductible. Our team verifies your benefits before your appointment. Financing through CareCredit, Cherry, and Sunbit is available. Learn about patient financing.
Root Canal FAQs
Most root canals are completed in one appointment. Severely infected teeth may require a temporary dressing at the first visit to allow the infection to subside before final sealing at a second visit. The crown is placed at a separate appointment, which with our in-house digital lab can often be completed the same day as the root canal or shortly after.
Preserving your natural tooth is almost always preferable. After extraction, adjacent teeth shift, bone loss occurs at the site, and you need a replacement (implant or bridge) to restore function, often at a higher total cost. A root canal allows you to keep the tooth for decades with a protective crown.
Most dental plans cover root canal treatment as a major restorative procedure, typically at 50% to 80% after the deductible. Coverage may differ based on the tooth (anterior vs. molar) and whether a specialist referral is required. Our team verifies your benefits before your appointment and provides a cost estimate so you know what to expect.
Root canal success rates are high (above 90%) when completed correctly and protected with a crown. Failure can occur years later due to a new crack, a missed accessory canal, or breakdown of the coronal seal. Retreatment or an apicoectomy (surgical root-end procedure) can address these situations in most cases.
In almost all cases, yes. A tooth that has undergone a root canal loses moisture and becomes more brittle. Without a crown, the tooth is at significant risk of fracturing, which is often non-restorable. Front teeth with small access openings are sometimes protected with a large composite filling instead of a full crown, but posterior teeth (premolars and molars) virtually always need a crown.
A pulpotomy removes only the pulp from the crown portion of the tooth, leaving the root pulp intact. It is primarily used on baby teeth and in emergency situations to relieve acute pain while a definitive treatment plan is made. A root canal (pulpectomy) removes the entire pulp including from the root canals and is the complete treatment for permanent teeth.
A single-rooted front tooth may take 45 to 60 minutes. Molars with multiple canals typically take 90 minutes to two hours. If the crown is completed the same day, plan for a longer appointment. We will give you a time estimate when you schedule.
Antibiotics are not routinely needed for a root canal. However, if you have signs of a spreading infection (facial swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing) or a compromised immune system, antibiotics may be prescribed before or after the procedure. Current dental guidelines do not recommend pre-medication for patients with artificial heart valves or joint replacements unless specifically advised by your physician.
If you had only local anesthesia or nitrous oxide, you can drive yourself home as soon as the nitrous effects clear. If you chose oral sedation or IV sedation, a driver is required. Plan to have someone with you for the remainder of the day.
It depends on where the fracture extends. A crack above the gumline can often be treated with a root canal and crown. A fracture that extends below the gumline or through the root is typically not restorable and requires extraction. Dr. Dawson will take X-rays and examine the fracture pattern to give you an honest prognosis before recommending treatment.
4.9 (437 reviews)
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Smile Science Dental Spa, and I couldn't be more impressed with the level of care and service provided by the entire team. Dr. Dawson and Dr. Turke are both incredibly skilled and made me feel completely at ease throughout my procedures. Their professionalism, combined with their gentle approach, made me feel comfortable and well-informed every step of the way. I was especially impressed that I was able to get a same-day crown(apparently their first ever!), which exceeded my expectations. I couldn’t believe how quick and seamless the process was. It really saved me time and made the experience even more convenient. Cindiray and Angeles, the dental assistants, were equally wonderful. They were not only friendly and attentive but also thorough in explaining everything and made sure I was relaxed during each phase of my visit. Lastly, a big thank you to Litzy at the front desk, who greeted me with a smile and helped with scheduling and any questions I had. She made the entire check-in process a breeze. From start to finish, my experience at Smile Science Dental Spa was exceptional. I'll be returning for sure. I highly, highly, highly recommend them for anyone looking for high-quality dental care.
View Full Review on GoogleDusty
Honestly I’ve never been so happy to go to the dentist. I came in (late due to Lyft) and was still taken care of and treated with care. Even without insurance (kicking in within the next month) prices for an extraction on my infected tooth were more than reasonable. I was able to get more than expected done in the same visit. Dr. Dawson and his team made me feel so comfortable and taken care of. Won’t go anywhere else.
View Full Review on GoogleCherish B
I recently started as a patient after leaving our long-time family Dentist and couldn’t be happier! Marcela is AMAZING and a FANTASTIC hygienist!!!! 😃 Dr Dawson is great too! Every time I visit, they make me feel like family.
View Full Review on GoogleTJ Winzeler
Myself and my family had previously gone to Dr. Turk at another dental office that he worked at. He had relocated and we did not know where he had gone to until this week. Today I got in with Dr. Turk and he took the time to look at my x-rays carefully . I was having pain from a tooth and some other issues. The previous Dentist I went to that I saw just a few days earlier, he did not find any issues with my tooth which I had pain in. Dr. Turk identified infection and referred me to an endodontist. He is very gentle as a wonderful disposition and my self and my family are thrilled to be able to get back with him. The office is lovely, relaxing music, heat and massage chair.I have always been very nervous and some anxiety going to dentist as I have had bad reactions with the anesthesia. I am confident that Dr. Kirk will help me get through my next appointment just fine. “The staff are very kind and attentive. I am looking forward as I have quite a bit of work to be done, and I know I’m in good hands with Dr. Turk and his staff. Five stars!⭐️ Sherry
View Full Review on GoogleSherry Redmond
I recently moved to Arizona and had an issue with a tooth repair from 15 years back. Not knowing anyone here in my new home, I searched dentists close to me. I chose Smile Science much like pinning the tail on the donkey and my selection couldn't have been better! What a terrific staff! Dr. Turke was concerned the tooth would need to be extracted, but said he wanted to take a shot at saving it..and that's just what he did! After setting a temporary crown, I was on my way with an appointment to install the permanent crown in the following two weeks. That evening I received a call I've never received from a dentist. Dr. Turke had taken the time to follow up with me to make sure I wasn't in any discomfort..I was completely caught off guard by this kind of attention to detail and caring for my well being. The permanent crown is now in place, it fits and feels fantastic, the job and treatment are first class! Thank you, Dr. Turke and staff for taking in this stray and giving me a home dentist! I'd like to say that I'm just good at selecting blindly, but the truth is I am very lucky..and I'll take lucky over being good any day of the week! Thank you, again and Happiest of New Year's in 2026, Science Smile!!
View Full Review on GoogleEddy
Toothache? Do Not Wait.
Infected teeth do not improve without treatment. SmileScience Dental Spa in Glendale offers same-day emergency appointments for acute dental pain, including sedation for patients who need it.