What Happens During a Root Canal

A step-by-step look at what actually happens during a root canal — from numbing the tooth and placing a protective rubber dam to microscopic cleaning, sealing the canals, and finishing with a crown. 60 seconds.

Video Transcript

What happens during a root canal? Here's a step-by-step guide to the procedure, from start to finish. It starts with comfort. We completely numb the tooth and verify you feel nothing before we ever begin. Next, a small rubber dam is placed. It isolates the tooth to keep it sterile, dry, and safe throughout the procedure. Then the real work begins. Your endodontist works through a tiny opening, using a powerful surgical microscope to see and treat the infected pulp. The infected pulp is carefully removed. The canals are then thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and completely sealed. Finally, a temporary filling is placed. The tooth is now completely clean and ready for your regular dentist to place a permanent crown. Most root canals take just one to two visits and under 90 minutes. Calm, precise, and comfortable. Silicon Valley Endodontics & Microsurgery, Sunnyvale, CA.