Root Canal Treatment
Endodontic Treatment
Charlotte Root Canal Center provides root canal therapy at 2809 Coltsgate Road, Suite 210, Charlotte, NC 28211. Dr. Rush Sunar, DMD has performed root canal treatment in Charlotte since 2002. A root canal removes infected or inflamed pulp tissue from inside a tooth, cleans and disinfects the canal system, and seals it to prevent reinfection. Root canal therapy saves teeth that would otherwise require extraction. Most root canals at Charlotte Root Canal Center are completed in a single visit. Call (704) 375-4252 to schedule.
What Is a Root Canal?
Inside every tooth is a soft tissue called the dental pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected due to deep decay, a crack in the tooth, or trauma, it causes pain and can lead to abscess if untreated. Root canal therapy removes the infected pulp, cleans and shapes the interior canal system, and fills it with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. A crown is then placed over the tooth to restore its strength and function.
The term “root canal” refers to the natural cavity within the center of the tooth — the procedure is technically called “root canal therapy” or “endodontic treatment.”
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Severe toothache: Persistent, throbbing pain that may worsen when biting or applying pressure.
Prolonged sensitivity: Pain from hot or cold that lingers for more than a few seconds after the stimulus is removed.
Tooth discoloration: A tooth that has darkened or turned gray, indicating the pulp inside may be dying.
Gum swelling: Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the affected tooth, sometimes with a pimple-like bump (fistula) that drains pus.
Pain that wakes you up at night: Dental pain that disrupts sleep is a strong indicator of pulp infection.
The Root Canal Procedure
Step 1 — Anesthesia: The tooth and surrounding area are fully numbed with local anesthesia. You will feel no pain during the procedure.
Step 2 — Access: Dr. Sunar creates a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber.
Step 3 — Cleaning: The infected pulp tissue is removed and the canal system is cleaned, shaped, and disinfected using specialized endodontic instruments.
Step 4 — Sealing: The canals are filled with gutta-percha, a biocompatible rubber-like material, and sealed to prevent bacteria from re-entering.
Step 5 — Restoration: A temporary filling is placed. You then return to your general dentist for a permanent crown to protect the treated tooth.
Does a Root Canal Hurt?
No. Root canal treatment is performed under local anesthesia and patients feel no pain during the procedure. The experience is comparable to getting a dental filling. Most patients report that the toothache they had before treatment was far worse than the procedure itself. Post-treatment soreness is mild and temporary, typically lasting 1 to 3 days and manageable with over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen.
How Long Does a Root Canal Take?
A root canal on a front tooth (which has one canal) typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. A premolar (one to two canals) takes 45 to 75 minutes. A molar (three to four canals) takes 60 to 90 minutes. Most root canals at Charlotte Root Canal Center are completed in a single visit.
Root Canal Cost in Charlotte NC
The cost of a root canal varies based on which tooth is affected — front teeth have one canal and cost less, while molars have three to four canals and cost more. Charlotte Root Canal Center accepts most dental insurance plans, and our team will verify your benefits and maximize your coverage. Financing options are also available for patients without insurance or with limited coverage. Call (704) 375-4252 for specific pricing.
Related Services
Root canal didn’t fully resolve the infection? An apicoectomy may be the next step.
Tooth darkened after root canal? Internal bleaching can restore its natural color.
Experiencing a dental emergency? We offer same-day emergency appointments.
Think You Need a Root Canal?
Don’t live with tooth pain. Call Charlotte Root Canal Center for fast, pain-free treatment.
Call (704) 375-4252