Root canal treatment removes infected or inflamed tissue from inside a tooth, then cleans and seals it so the tooth can stay. At our Sonoma, CA office, Dr. Oliver treats many root canals right here, so you can get out of pain and keep your natural smile. If a tooth needs more advanced care, we'll connect you with a trusted endodontist.
Tooth pain isn't always a root canal. We'll find the real cause first and walk you through every option.
Root canals have a scary reputation they no longer deserve. We go at your pace, explain every step, and never rush, and most people find it far easier than they expected. When your tooth is ready for its crown, it's handcrafted by master ceramists we trust. Our post on root canal myths and recovery answers the most common worries.
An infected tooth won't heal on its own, and waiting can mean more pain, swelling, or losing the tooth. Saving your natural tooth keeps your bite balanced and your jawbone supported. If a tooth can't be saved, tooth extraction followed by a replacement is always an option, and each path has its place.
To us, boutique dental care means you matter: personal, cozy, unhurried, and held to an exceptionally high standard. At Sonoma Springs Dental, Dr. Riley Oliver's boutique dental home in Sonoma, that means a root canal visit that feels calm, clear, and completely in your hands.
“What I love most about working with this team is the ladies themselves. They all have sparkling personalities, and they're all really fun.”
Chelsie, office manager
“My favorite part is the positive atmosphere and being able to help the Spanish-speaking community get access to care.”
Monsé, patient care coordinator
“I love that I can be myself in the office and with my patients, and I show it by wearing crazy colored scrubs each day.”
Cindy, registered dental assistant
“The office isn't a sterile medical atmosphere. It's homey, it's comfortable, it's an enjoyable place to be.”
Mandy, registered dental assistant
“I don't normally associate a dentist's office with being cozy and comforting, but this is. The work has been absolutely exemplary.”
Karen, patient
“This place is definitely not judgmental at all. You can open up about your past dental experiences, and there will be no judgment.”
Jocelyn, patient
“Ever since I was young, I dreaded going to the dentist, but I never expected to actually like coming here. They really treat you like family.”
Jahaziel, patient
A root canal removes infected or inflamed tissue from inside a tooth, then cleans and seals it so you can keep the tooth. You may need one when decay, a crack, or an injury reaches the nerve. Dr. Oliver treats many root canals right here, and if a tooth needs more advanced care, we'll connect you with a trusted endodontist.
Most people say it feels a lot like getting a filling. We numb the area fully before we start, so you'll feel pressure rather than pain. The tooth may feel tender afterward, which usually settles with over-the-counter pain relief. If you're nervous, just tell us and we'll go at your pace.
Common signs include a toothache that lingers, sensitivity to hot or cold that doesn't fade, pain when you bite, swelling near a tooth, or a tooth that has darkened. Sometimes there are no symptoms at all, and we spot the problem on an X-ray. Our post on deep cavities and tooth pain explains more.
Usually, yes, especially for back teeth. A root canal saves the tooth, but it can become more brittle afterward, so a dental crown protects it and restores its strength. We'll let you know exactly what your tooth needs.
Both have their place. Saving your natural tooth with a root canal is usually our first choice, because it keeps your bite balanced and your jawbone supported. If a tooth can't be saved in a way that will last, a tooth extraction followed by a replacement is the healthier path. We'll walk you through both honestly, with no pressure.
Take it easy for the rest of the day and avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it's fully restored. Some tenderness is normal and usually eases with over-the-counter pain relief. Keep brushing and flossing as usual, and call us if you notice swelling or pain that gets worse.
Most dental plans cover part of a root canal, since it's treatment that saves a tooth. We accept all major insurances and will walk you through your estimate before we start, so there are no surprises. For any remaining balance, you can pay monthly with Cherry or CareCredit.
Call us at (707) 935-8200 or visit our contact page for more options. If you're in pain, a call is the fastest way in, and we'll do our best to see you the same day when possible. You'll find us at 17776 Sonoma Hwy, with parking right outside.
