SUMMERLIN DENTAL SOLUTIONS

Root Canal Therapy

Las Vegas & Summerlin

Gentle, Precision-Guided Endodontic Care

19-Time Best of Las Vegas Award-Winning Practice

One Patient at a Time. Advanced 3D Imaging. Sedation Available.

851 S. Rampart Blvd., Suite 230, Las Vegas, NV 89145

(702) 341-9160

dentalsolutionslv.com

Save Your Natural Tooth with Expert Root Canal Treatment

A root canal is one of the most effective treatments in all of dentistry, and at Summerlin Dental Solutions, we have refined the experience to be far more comfortable than most patients expect. If you have been told you need a root canal, or if you are experiencing persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to heat and cold, or swelling near a tooth, you are in the right place. Dr. Marianne Cohan brings more than 31 years of clinical expertise, AI-assisted diagnostic imaging, and a genuine commitment to your comfort throughout every step of the procedure.

Our Summerlin office is located at 851 S. Rampart Blvd., Suite 230, Las Vegas, NV 89145, just minutes from Downtown Summerlin, The Ridges, Sun City Summerlin, Queensridge, and Bears Best. Whether you live in Centennial Hills, Spring Valley, Henderson, Desert Shores, or Paradise, relief is a short drive away.

What Exactly Is a Root Canal?

A root canal, clinically referred to as endodontic therapy, is a procedure that removes infected or inflamed tissue from inside a tooth. Every tooth contains a soft core called the dental pulp, which houses nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When that pulp becomes damaged through deep decay, a crack, repeated dental procedures, or trauma, bacteria can invade and cause infection, pain, and eventually an abscess.

During root canal therapy, Dr. Cohan carefully accesses the interior of the tooth, removes the compromised pulp, meticulously cleans and disinfects the canal system, and then seals the space with a biocompatible material. The tooth is then restored with a porcelain crown or a high-quality filling to protect it and return it to full function. The result is a natural tooth that can serve you well for decades with proper care.

Signs You May Need Root Canal Therapy

Not every toothache requires a root canal, but certain symptoms warrant prompt evaluation. If you are experiencing any of the following, we encourage you to contact our office or schedule a virtual consultation:

• Persistent, throbbing pain in a tooth that does not subside with over-the-counter medication
• Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the stimulus is removed
• Darkening or discoloration of a tooth
• Swelling, tenderness, or a small bump (fistula) on the gum tissue near the affected tooth
• Pain when biting or applying pressure
• A tooth that has had multiple restorations and is now symptomatic
• A previous dental injury or trauma that has caused delayed symptoms

Early intervention is critical. A tooth that could have been saved with timely root canal therapy may eventually require extraction and replacement with a dental bridge or dental implant if left untreated. We recommend contacting our emergency dental care line if your symptoms are severe.

What Sets Summerlin Dental Solutions Apart

Choosing the right provider for root canal therapy is an important decision. At Summerlin Dental Solutions, we have built our practice around a single guiding principle: every patient deserves unhurried, attentive care delivered with the most advanced technology available.

One Patient at a Time

We do not double-book, shuffle you between rooms, or hand you off to a rotating cast of providers. When you are in the chair, Dr. Cohan and our clinical team are focused entirely on you. This model allows for deeper focus, fewer errors, and a calmer experience. It is one of the key reasons patients choose our practice and what sets us apart from other offices in the valley.

31+ Years of Clinical Expertise

Dr. Cohan has performed thousands of root canal procedures over a career spanning more than three decades. She is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and the American Academy of Facial Esthetics. Her credentials include Nevada State Dental License #6502 (active through June 2027) and recognition as a Best Dentist in America by peer nomination.

Advanced Diagnostic Technology

Our office utilizes 3D CBCT cone beam imaging, TRIOS digital scanning, Smile Design software, and AI-assisted radiology to diagnose and treatment-plan with a level of precision that standard two-dimensional X-rays simply cannot provide. Studies have demonstrated that CBCT imaging changes the treatment plan in up to 62% of endodontic cases compared to standard radiography.

Comfort-First Philosophy

We offer sedation dentistry options, including nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation, for patients who experience dental anxiety. Read about the benefits of sedation dentistry for anxious patients and our pain-free dentistry approach. Our concierge-level approach means you are never rushed, and you are always informed about what is happening.

A 19-Time Best of Las Vegas Award-Winning Practice

Recognized year after year by the Las Vegas Review-Journal readers and community, Summerlin Dental Solutions has earned 19 Best of Las Vegas awards across multiple categories:

The Root Canal Procedure: Step by Step

Understanding exactly what happens during a root canal removes much of the anxiety surrounding the procedure. Here is our process at Summerlin Dental Solutions.

1. Comprehensive Diagnosis

Before any treatment begins, Dr. Cohan performs a thorough clinical examination and reviews your 3D CBCT scan. Unlike flat, two-dimensional X-rays, the CBCT produces a detailed volumetric image of the tooth and surrounding bone, allowing Dr. Cohan to identify the exact number of canals, detect curvatures, and locate accessory canals that might otherwise be missed. AI-assisted analysis supplements this review, helping to identify pathology that is difficult to detect with the unaided eye.

2. Achieving Complete Comfort

We administer a local anesthetic to ensure you feel nothing during the procedure. For patients with dental anxiety, we offer sedation options ranging from nitrous oxide to oral conscious sedation. Because we see one patient at a time, there is never a feeling of being hurried through anesthesia or into the procedure before you are fully comfortable.

3. Accessing the Pulp Chamber

Dr. Cohan creates a small opening in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals beneath. This access point is made as conservatively as possible to preserve maximum tooth structure.

4. Removing Infected Tissue

Using precision endodontic instruments, the infected or inflamed pulp tissue is carefully removed from each canal. The canal system is then shaped to a specific taper using rotary nickel-titanium files, which are flexible enough to navigate the natural curves inside your tooth without causing micro-fractures.

5. Cleaning and Disinfection

The canal system is irrigated with antimicrobial solutions that eliminate remaining bacteria and dissolve any residual organic debris. This step is critical to the long-term success of the procedure, and we devote the time necessary to ensure thorough disinfection.

6. Filling and Sealing

Once the canals are clean and dry, they are filled with gutta-percha, a biocompatible rubber-like material, and sealed with an adhesive cement. This creates an airtight barrier that prevents bacteria from re-entering the canal system.

7. Final Restoration

In most cases, Dr. Cohan will recommend a porcelain crown to protect the treated tooth. Learn about dental crown types and costs and how long crowns last. A root-canal-treated tooth can become more brittle over time, and a well-fitted crown restores its strength, function, and appearance. We use only the highest-quality materials. Patients interested in a broader restoration may also explore our smile makeover or full mouth reconstruction options.

Credentials You Can Verify

Transparency matters. Dr. Marianne Cohan holds the following credentials and professional affiliations:

• Nevada State Dental License #6502 (active through June 2027)
• City of Las Vegas Business License #G66-02791 (active through May 2026)
• Member, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD)
• Member, American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID)
• Member, American Academy of Facial Esthetics (AAFE)
• Member, Vegas Chamber of Commerce
• Accredited by the Better Business Bureau
• 19-time Best of Las Vegas award recipient (2020-2025)
• Recognized as a Best Dentist in America by peer nomination

Minutes Away from Communities Across the Valley

Our office at 851 S. Rampart Blvd., Suite 230 sits in the heart of Summerlin, with convenient access from every major community:

• Downtown Summerlin — 4 minutes
• The Ridges — 8 minutes
• Sun City Summerlin — 6 minutes
• Queensridge — 5 minutes
• Bears Best — 10 minutes
• Centennial Hills — 15 minutes
• Spring Valley — 12 minutes
• Desert Shores — 10 minutes
• Henderson — 25 minutes

View our office location and driving directions or take a virtual office tour.

Why Saving Your Natural Tooth Matters

• Preserves natural chewing function  No prosthetic perfectly replicates the feel and efficiency of a natural tooth.
• Prevents bone loss  A living tooth root stimulates the jawbone. Extraction leads to bone resorption that can affect adjacent teeth and facial structure.
• Cost-effective long-term  Root canal therapy followed by a crown is typically less expensive than extraction followed by a dental implant or bridge. Learn more about insurance coverage and financing options.
• Maintains natural alignment  When a tooth is removed and not replaced, adjacent teeth can shift, leading to bite problems.
• High success rate  Modern root canal therapy has a success rate exceeding 95% when performed with proper technique and advanced imaging.

Recovery and Aftercare

• Immediately after treatment: The area may be numb for 2-4 hours. Avoid eating on the treated side until sensation fully returns.
• Days 1-3: Mild tenderness is normal and typically responds well to over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication. Most patients return to work or normal activities the same day.
• Week 1: Avoid chewing hard or crunchy foods on the treated tooth, particularly if a temporary restoration is in place prior to crown placement.
• Long-term care: Maintain thorough oral hygiene with brushing, flossing, and regular preventive care visits. Schedule professional cleanings A properly restored root-canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime.

If you experience increasing pain, swelling, or fever following treatment, contact our office immediately at (702) 341-9160. Our emergency dental care team is available to assist you.

Insurance, Financing, and Affordability

Root canal therapy is covered by most dental insurance plans, as it is classified as a medically necessary procedure. Our administrative team will verify your benefits and provide a detailed cost estimate before any treatment begins. We accept most PPO dental insurance plans. Visit our insurance and financial information page, review our dental insurance guide for Las Vegas residents, or check whether your benefits expire.

For patients without insurance or those with remaining out-of-pocket costs, we offer financing options including CareCredit with 0% interest for 12 months. Read our tips to make dentistry more affordable. We believe financial considerations should never prevent you from saving a tooth.

Root Canal Therapy: 20 Questions Our Patients Ask

1. Is a root canal painful, or is that reputation outdated?

The reputation is thoroughly outdated. With modern local anesthetics and the sedation dentistry options available at Summerlin Dental Solutions, most patients report that the procedure itself is no more uncomfortable than receiving a tooth-colored filling. In fact, the infection or abscess that brought you in is typically far more painful than the treatment that resolves it. Dr. Cohan will not proceed until you are completely numb and comfortable. If you experience dental anxiety, read about our pain-free dentistry approach.

2. How long does a root canal take at Summerlin Dental Solutions?

Most single-rooted teeth (incisors and canines) can be treated in about 45 to 60 minutes. Multi-rooted teeth such as molars, which may have three to four canals, typically require 60 to 90 minutes. Because we see one patient at a time, the appointment is never rushed. We allocate ample time to ensure a thorough, complete treatment. Review what to expect during your office visit before your appointment.

3. What is a 3D CBCT scan, and why does it matter for root canal therapy?

A cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan produces a three-dimensional image of your tooth, surrounding bone, and adjacent anatomy. Traditional dental X-rays are two-dimensional and can miss accessory canals, unusual root curvatures, or early-stage infections. Our in-office CBCT scanner provides the detailed visualization Dr. Cohan needs to plan your treatment with precision. Learn more about our diagnostic capabilities, including AI-assisted imaging, on our technology page.

4. Will I need a dental crown after my root canal?

In most cases, yes. A root-canal-treated tooth loses some of its internal moisture and can become more prone to fracture, especially molars. A porcelain crown restores the tooth’s structural integrity, protects it from breaking, and provides a natural appearance. See our guides on dental crown types and costs, how long crowns last, and how to make your crown last longer with proper care.

5. How much does a root canal cost in Las Vegas?

The cost varies depending on the tooth’s location and complexity. Most dental insurance plans cover root canal therapy as a medically necessary procedure. We provide a detailed estimate after your diagnostic evaluation and offer 0% interest financing through CareCredit. Visit our insurance and financial information page, learn about what CareCredit covers, or read our tips to make dentistry more affordable. Contact our office at (702) 341-9160 for a personalized cost discussion.

6. What happens if I delay or avoid a recommended root canal?

The infection will not resolve on its own. Without treatment, bacteria continue to multiply, the abscess can spread to surrounding bone and soft tissue, and the tooth may become unsalvageable, requiring extraction. A tooth that could have been preserved may then need replacement with a dental implant, a bridge, or a denture. If you are experiencing symptoms, our emergency dental care team is available to help you promptly.

7. Is a root canal better than just pulling the tooth?

When a tooth can be saved, root canal therapy is almost always preferred. Your natural tooth maintains bone density, preserves bite alignment, and functions more naturally than any prosthetic. Extraction followed by an implant, bridge, or denture is typically more expensive and invasive. Visit our implants, crowns, and bridges overview and our guide to dental bridge types to understand the full range of replacement options. Dr. Cohan will provide an honest assessment of your options.

8. How does AI-assisted radiology improve my root canal outcome?

The AI software analyzes your radiographic images and highlights areas of potential concern, including subtle periapical lesions, early bone changes, or canal configurations that might be difficult to detect visually. This gives Dr. Cohan an additional diagnostic perspective. Learn more on our AI in dentistry page and our advanced technology overview.

9. What sedation options are available for root canal therapy?

We offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for mild relaxation and oral conscious sedation for deeper relaxation. All sedation is administered and monitored by Dr. Cohan. Visit our sedation dentistry page for detailed information, or read about the benefits of sedation for anxious patients and our pain-free dentistry approach.

10. How successful are root canals, and how long do they last?

Modern root canal therapy performed with proper technique and advanced imaging has a success rate exceeding 95%. A well-treated and properly restored tooth can function for the rest of your life. The most important factors are thorough disinfection, a quality seal, a protective porcelain crown, and diligent oral hygiene with regular preventive care visits and professional cleanings.

11. What does “one patient at a time” actually mean?

It means exactly what it says. Unlike many dental offices that schedule multiple patients simultaneously, our practice dedicates the entire appointment window exclusively to you. Dr. Cohan is not splitting her attention between patients. This is one of the key reasons patients choose Summerlin Dental Solutions and what sets our office apart from other practices. Take a virtual office tour to see our private treatment suites.

12. Can a tooth that already had a root canal be retreated?

Yes. In some cases, a previously treated tooth may develop new symptoms due to a missed canal, incomplete seal, new decay, or a crack. Retreatment involves removing the old filling material, re-cleaning the canals, and sealing them again. Our 3D CBCT imaging is particularly valuable in retreatment cases. After retreatment, a new crown is typically required.

13. How do I know if my tooth pain is a root canal issue or something else?

Tooth pain can have many causes, including cavities requiring fillings, teeth grinding (bruxism), cracked teeth needing crowns, or gum disease. Pain that is persistent, spontaneous, sensitive to heat, or accompanied by swelling often points to a pulp problem. Call us at (702) 341-9160, request a virtual consultation, or visit our emergency dental page if your symptoms are urgent.

14. Is the radiation from a CBCT scan safe?

Yes. A single dental CBCT scan delivers a radiation dose comparable to approximately one to three days of natural background radiation. This is significantly less than a medical CT scan. The diagnostic benefit far outweighs the minimal exposure. Read more about dental X-ray safety at our office and our advanced diagnostic technology.

15. Do you see children who need root canal therapy?

Yes, we treat pediatric patients who require endodontic therapy. Dr. Cohan’s gentle approach and our sedation options make the experience comfortable for younger patients. Our one-patient-at-a-time model ensures a calm, unhurried environment. Learn more about our general and family dentistry services.

16. What is the difference between a general dentist performing a root canal and an endodontist?

An endodontist is a specialist with two additional years of endodontic training. Dr. Cohan is a general dentist with over 31 years of experience, advanced diagnostic technology (including CBCT and AI-assisted imaging), and memberships in the AACD, AAID, and AAFE. She performs root canals regularly with excellent outcomes. For exceptionally complex cases, she will refer to a trusted specialist. That honesty is part of what makes our practice different.

17. Can I drive myself home after a root canal?

If your procedure was performed with local anesthesia only or with nitrous oxide, yes. Nitrous oxide clears your system within minutes. However, if you elect oral conscious sedation, you will need a driver. Review our office visit guidelines for full preparation details, and find us at our Summerlin office location.

18. What should I eat after a root canal?

Stick to soft foods for the first 24 to 48 hours: yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, smoothies, pasta, and soups. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods until your permanent crown is placed. Our preventive care team can provide personalized aftercare guidance at your follow-up visit.

19. Does dental insurance typically cover root canal therapy?

Most PPO dental insurance plans cover root canal therapy as a necessary procedure, typically paying 50% to 80% of the allowed amount. Visit our insurance and financial information page, learn whether your benefits expire, read about supplemental insurance plans, or review our dental insurance guide for Las Vegas residents.

20. How do I schedule a root canal consultation at Summerlin Dental Solutions?

Call our office at (702) 341-9160, request a virtual consultation, or complete the new patient forms online. Our office is at 851 S. Rampart Blvd., Suite 230, minutes from Downtown Summerlin, The Ridges, and Sun City Summerlin. Take a look at our office tour before you arrive. For urgent situations, contact our emergency dental care line for same-day assistance.

Explore Related Services and Resources

• Porcelain Crowns
• Emergency Dental Care
• Sedation Dentistry
• Tooth-Colored Fillings
• Dental Implants
• All-on-4 Dental Implants
• Dental Bridges
• Dentures
• Advanced Technology
• Preventive Care
• Deep Teeth Cleaning
• Teeth Grinding / Night Guards
• Tooth Extractions
• Full Mouth Reconstruction
• Smile Makeovers
• Invisalign
• Cosmetic Dentistry
• Restorative Dentistry
• Financing Options
• Insurance Information
• Meet Dr. Cohan
• Office Tour
• Office Location
• Virtual Consultation
• Awards and Media
• Best Dentist Summerlin Las Vegas
• Things to Do in Summerlin

Summerlin Dental Solutions  |  851 S. Rampart Blvd., Suite 230, Las Vegas, NV 89145  |  (702) 341-9160

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