Emergency Root Canal & Toothache Relief
In pain right now? Our Board-Certified Endodontists are specially trained to treat root canals and emergency toothaches — with same-day treatment available to get you out of pain fast.
Get Emergency Relief Now
Call or fill out the form for immediate assistance.
Years of Excellence
Patients Treated
Star Rating
Board Certified
Why See a Board-Certified Endodontist?
Endodontists are dental specialists who complete 2–3 years of additional training beyond dental school, focusing exclusively on treating tooth pain and performing root canals. They are the experts you want when you're in pain.
Board Certified
Our endodontists are board-certified by the American Board of Endodontics — a distinction held by a small percentage of endodontists nationwide.
Specialty Training
Our doctors completed their advanced specialty residencies at elite institutions, including Harvard and UCLA, bringing world-class clinical excellence directly to your care.
Microscopic Precision
Using advanced surgical microscopes, our endodontists can see the intricate anatomy of your tooth in extraordinary detail for more accurate treatment.
Same-Day Relief
We understand dental emergencies can't wait. Our team offers same-day appointments so you can get out of pain as quickly as possible.
Foundation Endodontics Specialty Team
Board-certified endodontists trained at the nation's top institutions — bringing elite clinical expertise to Pasadena.
Dr. Nerisa Limansubroto
(Dr. Lim), DDS, MS · Board-Certified Endodontist
Dr. Lim is a board-certified endodontist who completed her DDS at UCLA and her specialty residency at the University of Washington, where she also earned a Master of Science in Dentistry with a focus on regenerative endodontics. She is deeply passionate about saving teeth and uses the latest 3D imaging, surgical microscopes, and BioCeramic materials to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Dr. Laurel Martinez
DMD, AM · Board-Certified Endodontist
Dr. Martinez earned her DMD from Harvard University with honors and completed her endodontic specialty training at UCLA, where she continues to teach at the School of Dentistry. A Stanford graduate and national lecturer at the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), she brings research-backed precision and a genuine passion for patient care to every case.
What Patients Say About Our Endodontists
"Dr. Lim was amazing! She has such a calm and professional demeanor — you can tell she focuses on quality over quantity. I felt completely comfortable throughout and she always made sure I was doing ok. I highly recommend her for root canal treatments!"
"I got a root canal completed by Dr. Lim and her assistant — they are amazing! I felt so comfortable I actually fell asleep during the procedure. She always made sure I was doing ok. I highly recommend her!"
"I arrived exhausted, bracing for an hour and a half of torture. Instead, I was given a blanket, a comfortable chair, and Dr. Lim singing softly as she worked. I fell fast asleep. Never before have I left a dental office feeling so refreshed!"
"I came in with a terrible toothache and they got me in the same day. The root canal was completely painless — I couldn't believe it. The team was so kind and reassuring throughout the entire process. Thank you!"
When to Seek Emergency Treatment
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, you may need an emergency root canal. Don't wait — delaying treatment can lead to more serious complications.
Severe Toothache
Intense, throbbing pain that doesn't go away with over-the-counter medication. Pain may worsen when lying down or biting.
Sensitivity to Hot & Cold
Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks that persists long after the stimulus is removed — a key sign of nerve damage.
Swollen or Tender Gums
Swelling, redness, or tenderness around a specific tooth. You may also notice a small bump (abscess) on the gum near the affected tooth.
Darkened or Discolored Tooth
A tooth that has turned grey or dark compared to surrounding teeth, indicating the nerve inside may be dying or dead.
Cracked or Broken Tooth
A visible crack, chip, or fracture in a tooth — especially if accompanied by pain. Bacteria can enter through the crack and infect the pulp.
Pain When Chewing
Sharp pain or discomfort when biting down or chewing food, which may indicate an infection or crack in the tooth's root.
Same-day appointments available · Mon–Fri: 8:00am – 5:00pm
From Pain to Relief — In One Visit
Our board-certified endodontists can diagnose and treat your emergency in a single visit. Here's what to expect:
Emergency Evaluation
15–20 minutesCall us and we'll get you in as soon as possible — often the same day. Your endodontist performs a thorough exam using digital X-rays and our high-resolution CBCT scanner to pinpoint the exact source of your pain.
Pain Management & Sedation
5–10 minutesBefore any treatment begins, we ensure you're completely comfortable. Your mouth is fully numbed with local anesthesia, and we offer sedation options for patients with dental anxiety. You won't feel a thing.
Root Canal Treatment
45–90 minutesUsing microscopic visualization, your endodontist precisely removes the infected or damaged pulp, cleans and disinfects the canals, and fills them with biocompatible material. The tooth is then sealed to prevent reinfection.
Restoration & Aftercare
10–15 minutesA temporary or permanent restoration is placed to protect your tooth. You'll receive detailed aftercare instructions and, if needed, a prescription for any post-procedure comfort. Most patients return to normal activities the next day.
Pain-Free Treatment, Guaranteed
Modern root canals are nothing like the outdated procedures you may have heard about. With today's technology, they're no more uncomfortable than getting a filling.
Sedation Options
We offer multiple sedation options — from nitrous oxide to oral sedation — so you can relax completely during your procedure. Your comfort is our priority.
3D CBCT Imaging
Our high-resolution cone beam CT scanner creates detailed 3D images of your tooth anatomy, allowing precise diagnosis and treatment planning — no guesswork involved.
Surgical Microscopes
Our endodontists use advanced surgical microscopes with up to 25x magnification, revealing the intricate canal system of your tooth for the most thorough treatment possible.
The Truth: Root Canals Don't Hurt — Toothaches Do
The biggest misconception about root canals is that they're painful. In reality, the procedure itself is designed to relieve pain, not cause it. It's the infected tooth that causes the agony — a root canal is the cure.
With modern anesthesia, sedation options, and microscopic precision, most patients report the procedure feels no different than getting a routine filling. Many even fall asleep during treatment.
Tooth Pain Can't Wait
Every hour you delay treatment, the infection can spread. Our board-certified endodontists offer same-day emergency root canals to get you out of pain — fast.
Emergency Root Canal Questions
Yes! We reserve time in our schedule specifically for dental emergencies. When you call, let us know you're in pain and we'll do our best to see you the same day. Our board-certified endodontists are experienced in handling urgent cases efficiently without compromising quality.
Common signs include severe toothache, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, swollen or tender gums, a darkened tooth, or pain when chewing. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, call us immediately — the sooner we treat the infection, the better the outcome.
No. The procedure is exactly the same whether it's scheduled or an emergency. Your mouth will be completely numbed, and we offer sedation options for anxious patients. Most patients say the relief from their toothache far outweighs any minor discomfort during the procedure.
An endodontist is a dental specialist who completes 2–3 years of additional training beyond dental school, focusing exclusively on treating tooth pain and performing root canals. They use specialized equipment like surgical microscopes and 3D imaging. Our endodontists are also board-certified, meaning they've passed rigorous exams demonstrating advanced expertise.
Most patients return to work or normal activities the next day. Some patients even return the same day. You may experience mild tenderness for a few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. We'll provide specific aftercare instructions tailored to your case.
The cost varies depending on which tooth is affected and the complexity of the case. We'll provide a full cost estimate before beginning any treatment. We accept most major dental insurance plans and offer financing options. Call us and our team will help you understand your coverage.
While we recommend calling ahead so we can prepare for your arrival, we understand that dental emergencies are unpredictable. Call us at (626) 239-9529 and we'll work to accommodate you as quickly as possible. Same-day appointments are available Monday through Friday.
Emergency Endodontic Care in Pasadena & Surrounding Areas
Foundation Dental Specialists provides emergency root canal and toothache treatment to patients in Pasadena, Altadena, San Gabriel Valley, Eagle Rock, Glendale, Arcadia, and South Pasadena.
Schedule Your Consultation
Take the first step toward a healthier smile. Our team will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and budget.
Phone
(626) 239-9529Location
747 Locust Street, Suite 200
Pasadena, CA 91101
Free parking available behind the building
Office Hours
Monday – Friday: 8:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday & Sunday: Closed
Request Your Appointment
We'll call you to confirm your preferred date and time.