Madderra Dental Spa

Root Canal Therapy in San Francisco

Relieving pain and saving your natural smile with gentle, state-of-the-art endodontic care at Madderra Dental Spa.

Book Your Consultation Call: (415) 552-9200

Save Your Natural Tooth with Modern Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy — also known as endodontic treatment — is a procedure designed to save a tooth whose inner pulp (the soft tissue containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue) has become infected or severely inflamed. This infection is typically caused by deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the same tooth, a crack or chip, or trauma to the tooth.

Despite its outdated reputation, modern root canal therapy is a comfortable, routine procedure that is no more uncomfortable than getting a standard filling. At Madderra Dental Spa, we combine advanced technology, gentle techniques, and our calming spa-like environment to make the experience as stress-free as possible. Our conservative philosophy always prioritizes saving your natural tooth over extraction whenever clinically appropriate.

Dr. Madderra and Dr. Holmann have performed thousands of successful root canal procedures over their combined decades of practice. Their expertise, paired with state-of-the-art rotary instruments and digital imaging, ensures precise treatment, faster healing, and excellent long-term outcomes. We believe every natural tooth is worth saving, and a root canal is often the best way to do it.

Root canal therapy procedure

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, contact us promptly for an evaluation:

  • Severe Toothache: Persistent, throbbing pain that may worsen when biting down or applying pressure to the tooth.
  • Prolonged Sensitivity: Lingering pain or sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that persists long after the stimulus is removed.
  • Tooth Darkening: A tooth that has become noticeably darker or discolored, indicating possible pulp damage or death.
  • Gum Swelling: Swollen, tender, or inflamed gums near the affected tooth, or a small pimple-like bump (abscess) on the gum.
  • Cracked or Chipped Tooth: A visible crack or chip that has exposed the inner pulp to bacteria.
  • Deep Decay: A cavity that has progressed deep enough to reach the pulp chamber of the tooth.

Root Canal Myths vs. Facts

Root canals have an undeserved bad reputation. Let's set the record straight with the facts:

Myth: Root canals are extremely painful

Many people believe root canals are one of the most painful dental procedures and avoid them out of fear.

Fact: Modern root canals are virtually painless

With today's anesthesia and techniques, most patients say it feels like getting a filling. The procedure relieves pain — it doesn't cause it.

Myth: It's better to just pull the tooth

Some believe extraction is simpler and cheaper than a root canal, making it the better option.

Fact: Saving your natural tooth is almost always better

Nothing functions as well as your natural tooth. Extraction requires replacement (implant or bridge), which is more invasive and costly long-term.

Myth: Root canals cause illness

An outdated, debunked theory from the 1920s claimed root canals could cause systemic disease.

Fact: Root canals are safe and well-researched

Decades of scientific research confirm root canals are safe and effective. The American Association of Endodontists fully supports the procedure.

The Madderra Approach: Gentle, Precise Endodontic Care

With advanced technology and a gentle touch honed over 34+ years, Dr. Madderra makes root canal therapy a comfortable, efficient experience. Our step-by-step process ensures thorough treatment and the best possible outcome for your tooth.

Your Root Canal Procedure: Step by Step

  1. 1

    Diagnosis & Anesthesia

    After a thorough examination and digital X-rays to confirm the diagnosis, we administer local anesthesia to completely numb the area around the affected tooth. We also offer sedation options for patients who experience dental anxiety. A rubber dam is placed around the tooth to keep it clean and dry during the procedure.

  2. 2

    Accessing the Pulp Chamber

    A small opening is carefully made in the crown of the tooth to access the infected or inflamed pulp tissue inside. This is done with precision instruments to preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible, in keeping with our conservative treatment philosophy.

  3. 3

    Cleaning & Shaping the Canals

    Using advanced rotary nickel-titanium instruments and irrigation solutions, the infected pulp tissue is carefully removed from the root canals. The canals are then meticulously cleaned, disinfected, and shaped to prepare them for filling. This is the most critical step in ensuring the infection is completely eliminated.

  4. 4

    Filling & Sealing

    The cleaned and shaped canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, which seals the canals to prevent reinfection. A temporary filling is placed to close the access opening. You'll then return for a permanent restoration — typically a custom dental crown — to protect and fully restore the treated tooth.

The Benefits of Root Canal Therapy

Saves Your Natural Tooth

Preserves your natural tooth structure, maintaining your bite, chewing ability, and the natural appearance of your smile.

Eliminates Pain

Removes the source of infection and inflammation, providing relief from the severe toothache that brought you in.

Prevents Spread

Stops the infection from spreading to neighboring teeth, the jawbone, or other areas of the body.

High Success Rate

Root canal therapy has a success rate of over 95%, and with proper care, the treated tooth can last a lifetime.

Recovery & Aftercare

Recovery from a root canal is typically quick and straightforward. Most patients return to their normal activities the next day. Follow these guidelines for the best outcome:

  • Manage Mild Discomfort: Some tenderness is normal for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen are usually sufficient.
  • Avoid Chewing on the Treated Side: Until your permanent crown is placed, avoid biting or chewing hard foods on the treated tooth to prevent fracture.
  • Get Your Crown Promptly: Schedule your follow-up appointment for the permanent crown as soon as possible. This is essential to protect and seal the tooth long-term.
  • Maintain Oral Hygiene: Continue brushing and flossing normally. Good oral hygiene is critical for the long-term success of the treated tooth.
  • Contact Us If Needed: If you experience severe pain, visible swelling, or your bite feels uneven, contact our office promptly for evaluation.

What Our Patients Say

"I was terrified of getting a root canal, but Dr. Madderra made it completely painless. The entire staff was supportive and professional. Highly recommend!"

Christopher B.

Root Canal Therapy

June 2025

"I was in severe pain, and Dr. Madderra saw me immediately. The root canal was completely painless, and the relief was instant. Exceptional emergency care."

Dorothy M.

Root Canal Therapy

February 2024

"The gentle technique and modern technology made this root canal nothing like I feared. Dr. Madderra saved my tooth and my peace of mind."

George W.

Root Canal Therapy

January 2024

Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Therapy

Contrary to its reputation, a modern root canal is typically a comfortable procedure. At Madderra Dental Spa, we use effective local anesthesia and offer sedation options to ensure you feel relaxed and pain-free. Most patients report that the experience is similar to getting a routine filling. The primary goal is to relieve the significant pain caused by the infected tooth, not to cause more.
Symptoms indicating the need for a root canal include severe toothache upon chewing, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, discoloration of the tooth, and swelling or tenderness in the nearby gums. However, sometimes there are no symptoms. A thorough examination and digital X-rays with Dr. Madderra or Dr. Holmann are the only definitive ways to diagnose an infected or inflamed pulp.
While an extraction is an option, our conservative philosophy at Madderra Dental Spa prioritizes saving your natural teeth whenever possible. A root canal preserves your tooth, maintaining your natural bite, chewing efficiency, and smile aesthetics. Replacing an extracted tooth with a bridge or implant is often more complex and costly than saving the tooth with a root canal.
After your root canal, the tooth will be temporarily sealed. It is crucial to return for a permanent restoration, usually a dental crown, to protect the tooth from fracture and restore its full function. The tooth may be sensitive for a few days, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. We will provide detailed aftercare instructions.
A root canal procedure can typically be completed in one or two appointments, each lasting about 60 to 90 minutes. The number of visits depends on the complexity of the canal system and the extent of the infection. We use advanced rotary instruments and imaging to make the process as efficient and effective as possible.
Root canal therapy has a very high success rate, over 95%. The key to long-term success is a well-placed final restoration (like a crown) and diligent oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. In the rare event of reinfection, the tooth can often be retreated.
We utilize state-of-the-art technology for endodontic treatment, including digital radiography for precise diagnosis with minimal radiation, and advanced rotary nickel-titanium instruments. This technology allows for a more thorough cleaning and shaping of the canal system, leading to better outcomes and a more comfortable patient experience.
The cost of a root canal varies depending on the complexity of the case and which tooth is affected (molars are typically more complex). We will provide a clear, detailed treatment plan and cost estimate after your initial consultation. We also work with you to maximize any insurance benefits and offer financing options to make care accessible.

Related Services

Dental Crowns

After a root canal, a custom crown protects and restores the treated tooth to full strength and beauty.

Learn More →

Tooth Extractions

When a tooth cannot be saved, our gentle extraction techniques and replacement options ensure your comfort.

Learn More →

Dental Exams

Regular comprehensive exams help detect problems early, often before a root canal becomes necessary.

Learn More →

Ready to Find Relief and Save Your Smile?

Don't let tooth pain control your life. Contact Madderra Dental Spa today to schedule a consultation and learn how our gentle, modern root canal therapy can restore your comfort and preserve your natural tooth.

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