Stop tooth pain before it worsens with root canal therapy—targeted treatment that removes infection and preserves your natural tooth for lasting health.
A toothache that won’t go away, sensitivity to heat or cold that lingers long after the source is gone, or a tooth that’s darkened without explanation: these are signs that the pulp inside your tooth may be infected or damaged. Root canal therapy is the treatment designed to address exactly that. It removes the source of infection, relieves pain, and preserves your natural tooth so you can keep it for years to come.
At Church Family Dentistry & Cosmetics in Durham, NC, Dr. Will Church approaches root canal therapy with the same patient-focused care that defines every procedure we offer. With his training at UNC and a commitment to staying current with modern dental technology, Dr. Church ensures that you’re informed, comfortable, and confident throughout the process. Our restorative dentistry services are built around one core goal: keeping your natural teeth healthy and intact whenever possible.
Root canal therapy is a restorative procedure used to treat infection or inflammation deep inside a tooth. Each tooth contains a soft inner layer called the pulp, which holds nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When bacteria penetrate the enamel and reach this layer, whether through a deep cavity, a crack, or trauma, an infection can develop. Left untreated, that infection may spread to surrounding bone and tissue, leading to more serious problems down the line.
The symptoms associated with pulp infection are hard to ignore once they set in. Common indicators include prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold foods, a throbbing or persistent toothache, swelling or tenderness near the gumline, and tooth discoloration. In some cases, an abscess (a visible pimple-like bump on the gum) may form near the affected tooth. It’s also worth noting that some patients experience no pain at all, which is why routine exams matter. If you’re dealing with a dental injury or unusual discomfort, our emergency dentistry team is available to evaluate your tooth promptly.
These symptoms don’t always mean a root canal is necessary, but they do warrant a thorough evaluation before the condition progresses.
Many patients approach root canal therapy with more anxiety than the procedure deserves. Modern techniques and effective local anesthesia make the experience comparable to getting a filling for most people. Here’s what the process generally involves:
Dr. Church uses advanced cone beam imaging to get a precise picture of the affected tooth and the surrounding bone structure before any treatment begins.
The area around the tooth is numbed so you won’t feel discomfort during the procedure.
A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth. The infected pulp is carefully removed, and the canals inside the root are cleaned and shaped.
The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to prevent bacteria from re-entering.
In most cases, a crown is placed over the tooth to restore its strength and function. At our practice, patients can receive their crown in as little as two days.
The procedure typically takes one to two appointments depending on the severity of the infection. A 2022 systematic review published in PMC via the National Institutes of Health found pooled success rates for primary root canal therapy reaching over 92% under standard clinical criteria, reflecting how reliably this treatment saves natural teeth when performed correctly.
Most patients return to their normal routines within a day or two following root canal therapy. Some mild soreness around the treated area is normal for the first few days, and over-the-counter pain relievers are typically enough to manage any discomfort. Swelling should subside on its own, but if symptoms worsen or new ones develop, contact our office right away.
Sticking to soft foods for the first day or two, and avoiding very hot or very cold items until any numbness or sensitivity fades, can help keep you comfortable while the area heals.
Once the root canal is complete and your restoration is in place, the tooth functions just like any other tooth in your mouth. Brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and keeping up with routine checkups are the most effective ways to protect it over time. Because the treated tooth no longer has a living pulp, it may be more brittle than surrounding teeth, which is one reason placing a crown is so important. Our general dentistry services support long-term oral health at every stage, making it easy to stay on top of care after your procedure.
In some situations, a tooth may be too damaged to save with root canal therapy alone. If that’s the case, Dr. Church will walk you through all available options, including dental implants, to help you make a decision that fits your health goals and your life.
Saving a natural tooth is almost always the better option when it’s possible, and root canal therapy makes that possible far more often than most people realize. At Church Family Dentistry & Cosmetics, Dr. Will Church brings a genuine patient-first philosophy to every treatment, taking the time to listen to your concerns and explain your options clearly before anything begins. His training at UNC combined with advanced diagnostic technology, including cone beam imaging, means your care is guided by both expertise and precision.
We also offer multiple financing options through Cherry, Sunbit, and Proceed to help make treatment accessible, so cost doesn’t have to stand between you and a healthy smile. To learn more about Dr. Church and the care we provide, or to schedule a consultation, contact our office today.
Experience the difference that advanced technology and compassionate care can make. At Church Dentistry, we’re committed to providing Durham residents with exceptional dental care in a comfortable, modern environment. Whether you need a routine cleaning, cosmetic enhancement, or complex restorative work, our team is here to help you achieve optimal oral health and the confident smile you deserve. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discover why patients throughout Durham trust us with their smiles.
When you visit Church Family Dentistry, you’re in the hands of a dentist who approaches every appointment with genuine curiosity about your goals — not just your teeth. Dr. Will Church combines advanced training from UNC with a deep passion for cutting-edge dental technology, creating an environment where patients feel heard, valued, and confident in every decision they make about their care.
Quality dental care should be accessible to everyone. At Church Family Dentistry, we work hard to make treatment fit your budget — whether you have insurance, prefer financing, or simply want flexible payment solutions.
While we are proudly out-of-network, we file PPO benefits on your behalf to maximize your savings. We accept and process most major dental insurance plans — Medicaid, Tricare, and VA are the only exceptions.
We offer multiple financing options so care stays within reach — from simple out-of-pocket costs to larger treatment investments. Apply in minutes and get a decision quickly.
We happily accept Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts. Use your pre-tax dollars for any dental procedure — from routine cleanings to cosmetic treatment and implants.
Questions about your coverage? Call us at (919) 220-6553 — we’re happy to verify your benefits before your appointment.
At Church Family Dentistry, every patient’s experience matters deeply to us. Hear firsthand why Durham families trust Dr. Church with their smiles.
Church Family Dentistry is conveniently located in Durham, NC — right next to Duke Regional Hospital, with comfortable operatories overlooking beautifully wooded surroundings.
Address
2711 N Duke St #B
Durham, NC 27704
Phone
(919) 220-6553
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| Monday | 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
Taking the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile is simple. Call our Durham office or request an appointment online — we’re here to answer your questions and create a personalized plan that fits your life.
Whether you’re a new patient or returning for care, Dr. Church and his team will take time to truly understand your goals before recommending any treatment.
The content on this website has been reviewed by Dr. Will Church for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Treatment outcomes vary based on individual needs and clinical factors. Contact Church Family Dentistry at (919) 220-6553 for personalized care or dental emergencies.
