Medically Reviewed by Dr. Soujanya Maddipati, DDS, MPH · University of Colorado Denver (DDS, 2013) · Texas-Licensed DDS · Last reviewed 2026
General Information Only: The content on this page is provided for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Individual treatment needs vary. Please schedule a consultation with Dr. Soujanya Maddipati, DDS, MPH to receive a personalized assessment. In a dental emergency, call 832-779-5522 or visit your nearest emergency room.
Many patients put off root canals because they've heard horror stories about pain, or they're worried the cost will be too high. Others wonder if they should just pull the tooth instead.
Dr. Maddipati shows you the X-ray so you can see exactly what's happening inside your tooth, and explains whether this is something that needs immediate treatment or can wait a few weeks. She gives you the exact cost upfront, including what your insurance will cover, so there are no surprises.
Root canal treatment saves a badly decayed or infected tooth. Modern root canals are no more uncomfortable than getting a filling — and they relieve the significant pain caused by an infected tooth.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Severe toothache when chewing or applying pressure
Prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold
Darkening of the tooth
Swelling and tenderness near the gums
A persistent pimple on the gums
The Procedure
1. X-rays taken. 2. Local anesthesia administered. 3. Access opening made; infected pulp removed. 4. Canals cleaned, shaped, and filled. 5. Tooth restored with a crown or filling.
Frequently Asked Questions
The procedure itself shouldn't hurt more than getting a filling - we numb the area completely. Most patients say the worst part was the toothache before they came in, not the actual treatment.
Medicaid typically covers root canals on front teeth and premolars. For back molars, coverage varies. We'll check your specific Medicaid plan before treatment and offer payment plans through CareCredit or Sunbit if you need them.
Most root canals take 60-90 minutes. Dr. Maddipati removes the infected nerve, cleans inside the tooth, and seals it. You'll need a crown later to protect the tooth, which requires a separate appointment.
Yes, Dr. Maddipati performs root canals right here at 11834 Airline Drive. We have digital X-rays and can usually see you within a day or two if you're having tooth pain.
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