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 will not go away, sensitivity to heat that lingers long after the source is removed, or a tooth that has darkened without explanation — these are signs that the pulp inside the tooth may be infected. Root canal therapy removes that infection, eliminates the pain it is causing, and preserves the natural tooth so it does not have to be extracted.
At Church Family Dentistry in Durham, NC, Dr. Will Church approaches root canal therapy the same way he approaches every restorative procedure: with the goal of saving as much natural tooth structure as possible. Modern techniques and effective anesthesia make the experience significantly more comfortable than most patients expect. If you have been putting off treatment out of concern about the procedure, this page will give you an accurate picture of what to expect. Our restorative dentistry team is here to help you through it.
Root canal therapy treats infection or inflammation inside the pulp — the soft inner layer of the tooth containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When bacteria penetrate through a deep cavity, a crack, or trauma, an infection can develop in this layer. Left untreated, that infection spreads to the surrounding bone and tissue, and the tooth becomes unsalvageable.
Some of these symptoms point clearly toward pulp involvement. Others are subtler. Any persistent dental pain warrants an evaluation:
In some cases, a tooth needing root canal therapy causes no pain at all — which is why regular checkups with cone beam imaging are important for catching pulp problems before they escalate.
The procedure is completed in one to two appointments depending on the severity of the infection. Most patients are surprised to find it is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Here is how it works:
Because the tooth no longer has a living pulp, a crown placed over it after root canal therapy is typically the final step — it protects the treated tooth from fracture and restores it to full chewing strength.
Most patients return to their normal routines within a day or two. Mild soreness around the treated area is normal for the first few days and is typically managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Stick to softer foods for the first day or two and avoid very hot or cold items until any numbness has fully worn off. If symptoms worsen or new ones develop, contact our office right away.
Once the root canal is complete and the crown is placed, the tooth functions just like any other tooth in your mouth. Brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and attending routine checkups protect the restoration long term. The tooth may be slightly more brittle than its neighbors because it no longer has a living pulp — which is exactly why placing a crown is a critical final step rather than an optional one.
Saving a natural tooth is almost always the better outcome when it is possible, and root canal therapy makes that possible in far more situations than most patients realize. If you have questions about whether you are a candidate, our team is here to walk you through it. Learn more about Dr. Church’s approach to understand how he handles complex restorative cases.
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
Schedule Online
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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.
