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Home
About
About Us
Office Tour
Our Team
Patient Information
Same Day Teeth Consultation
Technology
Services
View all Services
All-on-4 Implants
ClearCorrect Braces
Dental Checkup
Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges
Dental Implants
Dental Veneers and Dental Laminates
Dentures and Partial Dentures
Emergency Dentist
Full Mouth Reconstruction
Invisalign Dentist
Kid Friendly Dentist
Root Canal Treatment
Sedation Dentist
Smile Makeover
Snap-On Smile
Teeth Whitening
White Spot Removal
Patient Education
Blog
Alternative to Braces for Teens
Dental Anxiety
Do I Have Sleep Apnea
Do I Need a Root Canal
I Think My Gums Are Receding
Improve Your Smile for Senior Pictures
Options For Replacing Missing Teeth
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Oral Hygiene Basics
What Can I Do to Improve My Smile
What Do I Do If I Damage My Dentures
What Should I Do If I Chip My Tooth
When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary
Which is Better Invisalign or Braces
Why Are My Gums Bleeding
Will I Need a Bone Graft for Dental Implants
Wisdom Teeth Extraction
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Do I Need a Root Canal Palm Desert, CA
Root canals can save or repair teeth that have been damaged by infection or decay. When a tooth does not get needed root canal treatment, the surrounding tissue may become infected and surrounded by abscesses. Root canals consist of removing the inflamed and infected nerve and pulp of the tooth.
Root canals are available at Desert Dream Dentistry & Spa in Palm Desert and the surrounding area. Do not put off saving your tooth. Call us today at (760) 565-0234 to schedule an appointment and learn more.
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Resolving Pain With Root Canals
The dental issues that cause the need for root canals often make patients uncomfortable. At the bare minimum, patients will experience an excruciating toothache. These toothaches may be spontaneous, occurring even when the patient is not using the tooth. Eventually, this may evolve into a severe headache. Many patients often do not make the connection between the toothache and the headache.
A tooth that is still alive will also be sensitive to heat and cold, even after the patient has removed the stimulus. The tooth may be particularly susceptible to heat sensitivity. Patients with teeth that are already dead and have become abscessed will cause pain when the patient chews or otherwise puts pressure on the tooth. Any abscesses may produce swelling or bleeding, even to the point of requiring emergency care.
“The underlying causes of root canals can often make patients uncomfortable.”
Signs That Indicate Need for a Root Canal
Pain or discomfort surrounding a tooth can occur even when the tooth is not in use. One major sign that the pulp is infected is sensitivity to hot and cold stimuli. The American Association of Endodontists (AAE) lists other signs and symptoms that indicate a patient needs a root canal:
Severe pain while chewing or biting
Pimples on the gums
A chipped or cracked tooth
Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, even after the sensation has been removed
Swollen or tender gums
Deep decay or darkening of the gums
“One major sign that the pulp is infected is sensitivity to hot and cold stimuli.”
When a Root Canal is Necessary
Other signs that root canals are necessary include when a patient has a chipped or cracked tooth, a deep cavity goes to the root, or the patient is experiencing issues from a previous filling. In many cases, a patient may not know themselves that they need a root canal. That is why it is crucial that patients visit their dentist biannually for routine check-ups and any time they are experiencing moderate to severe pain.
Root canals become necessary when a patient experiences or notices persistent pain, swollen gums, sensitivity to hot and cold stimuli, tooth discoloration, a chip or crack, and tooth mobility. These symptoms occur as a result of an ungrounded tooth with little to no healthy foundation. A root canal treatment may not reverse these conditions, but it will stop them from progressing and save the tooth in question.
“Root canals become necessary when a patient experiences or notices persistent pain, swollen gums, sensitivity to hot and cold stimuli, tooth discoloration, a chip or crack, and tooth mobility.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Do I Need a Root Canal in Palm Desert, CA
Alternatives to Root Canals
Root canals can help address any issues caused by infection and decay. However, for such treatment to be successful, there must be enough of the natural tooth remaining to save. While it is best to save and maintain natural teeth whenever possible, some teeth may be beyond repair. Teeth with severe fractures or cracks extending below the gum line, for example, may be better suited for extraction.
If extraction is necessary, patients may want to consider getting dental implants. This tooth replacement option looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth and will help maintain the appearance of the smile. Dental implants consist of artificial tooth roots surgically placed into the jaw to hold an artificial tooth (also known as a crown or pontic) in place. Our team can help determine which option is best for you.
“However, for such treatment to be successful, there must be enough of the natural tooth remaining to save.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What kind of pain can be addressed by a root canal treatment?
Q. Are there any alternatives to root canals?
Q. Are there signs that indicate I need for a root canal?
Q. When is a root canal necessary?
Q. Do I need an emergency root canal?
People Also Ask
Q. How common are root canals?
Q. How can I cope with dental anxiety?
Q. What is the difference between endodontists and dentists?
Q. What are the benefits of a root canal?
Q. How can you save a tooth with a root canal?
Q. Are pain and tenderness when touching the teeth or chewing a sign of a problem?
Emergency Root Canals
An emergency root canal is often necessary when a patient is experiencing unbearable pain that may be affecting their oral functions. This may include biting, chewing, eating, and breathing normally without lingering pain or discomfort on one side. The mission of an emergency root canal treatment is to remove the damaged pulp completely and restore the tooth using an artificial tooth replacement.
Emergency root canals are typically performed in one visit with the second visit being the application of the tooth replacement. Tooth-replacement options include, but are not limited to, crowns, bridges, and dental implants. Dental implants, however, require a few appointments on their own as it is a surgical procedure.
“An emergency root canal is often necessary when a patient is experiencing unbearable pain that may be affecting their oral functions.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do root canals hurt?
A. Root canals today are similar to a deep filling treatment and should not hurt. With local anesthesia, we keep patients comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure and a few hours after. We will also prescribe pain-relievers and antibiotics to help the site heal quickly.
Q. How often will I need a root canal?
A. Once a root has been removed and replaced, it will no longer need retreatment. However, if decay lingers in the site, an extraction may be necessary later down the line. Tooth replacements may need replacement every 5-10 years, depending on its type and maintenance by the patient.
Q. How long does it take to get a root canal?
A. This varies on a case-by-case basis. However, most patients can expect one or two 90-minute appointments.
Q. How much do root canals cost?
A. Root canal treatment differs for everyone depending on the location of the tooth, severity of the condition, and amount of work needed to be done. On average, a root canal treatment can cost anywhere from $750 to $1,500. We recommend communicating with your insurance provider to understand your plan and coverage.
Q. How does a root canal treatment work?
A. Using X-rays from the initial consultation, we can see how the roots are shaped and where exactly the infection lies to ensure we only remove what is necessary. During the treatment, we will remove the entire pulp chamber and any infected roots. Then, we will replace them with artificial roots, clean the inside, place back the pulp chamber (if unaffected), and seal the tooth.
Q. How can I prevent root canal treatment?
A. As root canals are a result of severely decayed or damaged teeth, it is important to exercise basic oral hygiene habits to prevent even a small cavity. Cavities are the earliest sign of decay and going without treatment allows this decay to develop and reach the tooth's roots. It is important to practice good oral hygiene, visit the dentist regularly, and avoid foods and beverages that cause cavities.
Quality Dental Services Can Transform Your Smile
By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need. Instead of waiting around and allowing the symptoms to get worse, we can provide you with treatment options.
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Dental Terminology
Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry is generally used to refer to any dental work that improves the appearance (though not necessarily the function) of a person’s teeth, gums and/or bite.
Decay
Tooth decay is when the enamel of the tooth begins to decay and cause erosion from plaque and tartar on the teeth.
Dental Caries
Dental caries are also known as cavities and result from a lack of proper oral hygiene leaving plaque that forms tiny holes in the teeth.
Dental Checkup
A dental checkup is an appointment that involves cleaning the teeth, identifying any signs of infection and removing said signs of infection at least once every six months in the office.
Dental Filling
A dental filling involves restoring the structure of the tooth by using metal, alloy, porcelain or plastic to fill the tooth.
Dental Prophylaxis
A dental prophylaxis is a professional and detailed cleaning that involves the removal of plaque, calculus and stains from the teeth.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants contain a resinous material that we apply to the chewing surfaces of the posterior teeth to prevent dental caries.
Dentist
A dentist, also known as a dental surgeon, is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and conditions of the oral cavity.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the inflammation of gum tissue that results from plaque, other infections in the mouth and poor oral hygiene.
Preventive Dentistry
Preventive dentistry is the dentistry that focuses on maintaining oral health in order to prevent the spread of plaque, the formation of tartar and infections in the mouth.
Tartar
Tartar forms when plaque builds up on the surface of the teeth and calcifies into a hard surface that is much more difficult to remove and will require professional treatment.
Tooth Enamel
Tooth enamel is the protective visible outer surface of a tooth that contains the dentin and dental pulp.
Learn More Today
For many patients, a root canal procedure is just what they need to save their tooth. We at Desert Dream Dentistry & Spa may be able to help. Call us today at (760) 565-0234 to learn more and schedule an appointment.
Helpful Related Links
American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page.
2025
WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2025
About our business and website securityDesert Dream Dentistry & Spa was established in 2017.We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and VisaWe serve patients from the following counties: Riverside CountyWe serve patients from the following cities: Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Bermuda Dunes, Cathedral City, and Palm SpringsHealthgrades. View Background Information and ReviewsNorton Safe Web. View DetailsTrend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
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