Root Canal Procedure & Same Day Root Canal Treatment in Concord, CA

What to Expect During a Root Canal Procedure

If you’ve been told you need a root canal, knowing what to expect can make the experience feel less stressful. At our office in Concord, California, we combine advanced 2D X-rays and 3D CBCT imaging with modern endodontic techniques to accurately diagnose and treat the entire tooth.

What Happens During a Visit for Root Canal Treatment?

Your root canal consultation begins with a thorough work up to determine exactly what is happening inside and around your tooth.

Your visit may include:

• 2D digital X-rays to evaluate the tooth and surrounding structures 
• 3D CBCT imaging for a more detailed view of the tooth* 
• A comprehensive clinical examination and diagnosis 
• Personalized treatment planning 
• Root canal treatment or retreatment to remove infection and preserve the natural tooth 

*Our 3D CBCT imaging allows your doctor to see the tooth from multiple angles and identify problems that may not be visible with traditional 2D X-rays alone.

Same-Day Root Canal Treatments

Whenever possible, we offer same-day root canal treatment so you can find relief and begin the process of healing.

Same-day appointments may also be available for dental emergencies, depending on your individual situation.

Is a Root Canal Treatment Painful?

Modern root canal treatment is designed to be comfortable, and our team offers multiple options to help you feel relaxed throughout your appointment in addition to our local anesthesia.

Options include:

• Nitrous oxide
• Oral sedation
• IV sedation*

In fact, the office of Drs. Cohen, Au, and Stevenson is the only endodontic practice in the East Bay area offering IV sedation, providing an additional option for patients who experience dental anxiety or want a deeper level of relaxation during treatment.

*IV sedation and oral sedation requires an initial consultation visit, with treatment scheduled after the initial consultation appointment. If you receive IV or oral sedation, you will need someone to drive you to the treatment appointment, as well as to drive you home after your appointment.

What Happens After Root Canal Treatment?

Most patients recover comfortably within a few days and can return to their normal routines relatively quickly.

Your doctor will provide specific instructions based on your procedure and individual needs.

After Your Root Canal Treatment:

• Wait until the numbness wears off before eating (typically 2-3 hours after the treatment), drinking fluids are acceptable
• For the following few days after treatment, you may experience some tenderness or sensitivity, particularly when biting or chewing. We recommend utilizing the opposite side of treatment to chew to decrease sensitivity
• Start with softer foods if your tooth feels sensitive 
• Gradually return to your normal diet as comfortable 
• Follow your doctor’s post-treatment instructions 
• Contact our office if you experience unexpected or worsening symptoms 

Your doctor will also explain whether you need to return to your general dentist for a final restoration, such as a filling or crown, to protect the treated tooth.

How Long Does Root Canal Treatment Recovery Take?

For most patients, the initial recovery period lasts a few days, but some minor symptoms can last up to a few weeks. Mild tenderness can be normal as the tissues around the treated tooth heal. Typically, symptoms decrease over time, and the timeline for healing is unique for each patient and tooth. 

Root Canal Retreatment

In certain cases, a tooth that has previously received a root canal treatment can develop a problem. This usually happens due to the presence of bacteria in the tooth, either because the original treatment did not fully address the anatomy of the tooth or the tooth becomes reinfected from a compromised seal or root structure.

If you’ve had a root canal elsewhere and are experiencing pain, swelling, or other concerns, our office can evaluate the tooth and determine whether root canal retreatment may be appropriate.

Why Choose the Office of Drs. Cohen, Au, and Stevenson for Your Root Canal Treatment?

Choosing an experienced endodontic practice can make a difference when you need specialized treatment.

Patients choose our practice for:

• Expertise in root canal treatments
• Board-certified endodontists 
• A kind and compassionate team of endodontists and staff
• Advanced 3D CBCT imaging 
• Comprehensive diagnosis and treatment 
• Same-day root canal treatment when possible 
• Emergency root canal appointments 
• IV sedation—the only endodontic practice in the East Bay Area offering this option 
• Oral sedation 
• A focus on preserving your natural teeth 
• Acceptance of all Delta Dental PPO plans 
• Financing options to help make treatment more affordable 

Our goal is to provide thorough, comfortable treatment while helping you preserve your natural tooth whenever possible.

Contact us at 925-676-3000 to schedule your appointment or learn more about same-day root canal treatment.

How much will a root canal cost?

The cost associated with root canals can vary depending on factors such as the severity of damage to the affected tooth and which tooth is affected. In general, endodontic treatment is much less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth.