If you’re experiencing tooth pain, lingering sensitivity, or swelling, you may be concerned that extraction is your only option. In many cases, a root canal can save your tooth, relieve discomfort, and stop infection from spreading.
At Smiley Dental Waltham, we provide root canal treatment that is comfortable, predictable, and stress-free. Our focus is on helping you feel informed, relaxed, and confident throughout every step of your care.
We proudly serve patients in Waltham and nearby communities including Newton, Watertown, Belmont, Lexington, Weston, and surrounding MetroWest areas.
A root canal is a routine dental procedure that removes infection from the inside of a tooth, known as the pulp. When the nerve becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay, cracks, trauma, or a failing filling, it can lead to pain, swelling, or sensitivity.
Exam and X-Ray
We begin by evaluating your symptoms and taking diagnostic X-rays to confirm the diagnosis.
Numbing and Comfort
The tooth and surrounding area are fully numbed to ensure a comfortable, pain-free experience.
Removing the Infection
The infected pulp is carefully removed, and the canals are cleaned and disinfected using precise instruments.
Sealing the Tooth
The canals are sealed with a safe, rubber-like material to prevent future infection.
Final Restoration (Crown)
Most teeth require a crown after a root canal to restore strength and protect the tooth from damage.
Modern root canal treatment is comfortable and efficient. With today’s anesthesia, the procedure feels similar to receiving a filling. Mild soreness afterward is normal and typically resolves within 24–48 hours.
After treatment, we may recommend:
We provide personalized aftercare instructions based on your treatment.
Most dental insurance plans cover a significant portion of root canal treatment and part of the crown. Our team will:
Smiley Dental Waltham accepts CareCredit, Cherry, Sunbit, LendingTree, and other flexible financing options.
Persistent pain, sensitivity, swelling, or tooth discoloration are common signs. An exam and X-ray are needed to confirm.
Most patients experience significant relief the same day or within 24–48 hours.
Saving your natural tooth is usually the better option. Extraction can lead to shifting teeth, bone loss, and the need for more complex treatment.
Delaying allows infection to spread, increasing pain and the risk of tooth loss.
Antibiotics are prescribed only if the infection has spread beyond the tooth.
Reinfection is uncommon but possible if decay develops around the crown or the tooth cracks. Retreatment may be an option if needed.
Some teeth receive a temporary filling first, but placing the crown as soon as possible helps prevent fractures.
You can eat once numbness wears off, but avoid chewing on the treated side until the crown is placed.
With good oral care and a properly placed crown, a treated tooth can last many years or even a lifetime.
If you’re in pain or think you may need a root canal, contact our Waltham team today. We’re here to help you feel better quickly.
Call 781-666-6000 to schedule your visit.
Other Smiley Dental locations
Boston: 857-888-8000
Beverly: 978-288-1000
Lowell: 978-999-9000
Fairhaven: 508-967-1000
If you’re experiencing tooth pain, lingering sensitivity, or swelling, you may be concerned that...
When teeth become damaged, worn down, sensitive, or missing, everyday activities...
Dentures are prosthetic appliances used to replace missing teeth and restore oral...
Over time, teeth can become stained from foods, drinks, medication, or natural aging...

Yusmary is a dentist by education from Venezuela with eight years of experience working as a dental assistant. Her background provides her with a strong understanding of both clinical care and patient needs.
She is dedicated to making sure patients feel comfortable and happy with their visits. Yusmary loves her work and takes pride in delivering a positive, reassuring dental experience.

Jenny Marroquín brings over 10 years of experience in administrative support, organization, and patient-focused service. In her role at the front desk, she helps ensure smooth daily operations and clear communication throughout the office.
Her friendly approach and attention to detail create a welcoming, organized environment for both patients and staff, helping every visit run efficiently and comfortably.

Evelyn is a dentist by training from Venezuela and has over three years of experience as a certified dental assistant in the United States. Her strong clinical background allows her to support patients and the dental team with skill and confidence.
She truly enjoys her work and is passionate about providing compassionate, high-quality care. Evelyn focuses on making every patient feel comfortable, informed, and well cared for during their visit.

Dr. Nazia Pathan is a highly skilled, passionate and experienced dentist with 19 years of dental
experience. She has practiced in India and USA. She graduated from Boston University with
DMD High Honors. She has served diverse populations with oral & dental health education and
treatment. She is certified in surgically placing implants and prosthetic restorations and holds a
Fellowship of ICOI. She has also participated in various clinical case discussions with experts in
the field of implants. She seeks to contribute to the advancement of preferential treatment in
dentistry and apply her knowledge and skills to help more people smile with confidence.
Dr. Pathan is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in dental technology
and techniques. She regularly attends continuing education courses and is a member of the
American Dental Association and Academy of General Dentistry. She lives in Waltham with her
husband and 2 kids. When not practicing, she likes to travel and read new books.

Dr. Charan Teja Bobba, DDS, MHA is a skilled general dentist dedicated to providing comprehensive,
patient-centered dental care. He earned his Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree in India, where he built
a strong clinical foundation and developed a passion for restorative and preventive dentistry. After moving
to the United States, he completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree, blending international
experience with advanced, evidence-based techniques.
Dr. Bobba also holds a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration (MHA), which supports his commitment
to delivering efficient, ethical, and high-quality care. His clinical expertise spans a wide range of
procedures, with a special focus on Implantology, Oral Surgery, Restorative dentistry, and Prosthodontics.
Known for his gentle approach and attention to detail, he ensures that every treatment plan is tailored to
meet the unique needs and goals of each patient.
Outside the operatory, Dr. Bobba is passionate about lifelong learning and community service. He has
volunteered with the American Red Cross and is committed to educating patients about oral health and
preventive care. Whether restoring a single tooth or managing complex cases, Dr. Bobba’s mission is to help
patients achieve healthy, confident smiles through compassionate, state-of-the-art care.

Dr. Suraj Sinha is a globally trained cleft and craniofacial orthodontist with over 12 years of dedicated experience in dentistry. He completed advanced training at the prestigious Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in Taiwan—the largest hospital in the world—and earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) from Rutgers School of Dental Medicine.
Renowned for his clinical excellence and academic rigor, Dr. Sinha has authored more than 20 peer-reviewed publications, cited over 100 times, significantly advancing the understanding of craniofacial anomalies and interdisciplinary treatment approaches. Throughout his distinguished career, he has received numerous prestigious awards recognizing his outstanding contributions to research, clinical innovation, and patient care.
Fueled by a passion for innovation and compassionate treatment, Dr. Sinha is dedicated to transforming lives—one confident smile at a time.

Dr. Shah brings a global perspective and over 15 years of experience to her dental practice. She began her dental journey in India, where she earned her Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree. Driven by a passion for providing comprehensive, patient-centered care, Dr. Shah pursued advanced education in the United States at Boston University with High honors.
Dr. Shah is passionate about staying on the leading edge of dentistry and invests a lot of time into continuing education. Her clinical interests include preventive dentistry, restorative procedures, and creating healthy, confident smiles for patients of all ages. She is also a certified Invisalign provider.
Dr. Shah is committed to delivering high-quality care with compassion and precision. She believes in building strong relationships with her patients and staying current with the latest advancements in dental technology and techniques. Dr. Shah enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and exploring new cuisines.

Dr. Karishnee Patel is a compassionate dentist who believes oral health is a key part of overall well-being. She earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) from the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, building a strong foundation in advanced clinical techniques and patient-centered care.
With more than seven years of experience, Dr. Patel’s philosophy goes beyond relieving toothaches. She focuses on whole-person dentistry looking for root causes, using evidence-based treatments, and tailoring care to each patient’s health goals.
Dr. Patel takes time to understand your needs and lifestyle, then creates a personalized plan whether you’re here for routine maintenance, cosmetic enhancements, or advanced restorative work. Her goal is simple: guide you toward a healthier, happier smile.

Dr. Aparna Khanna is a graduate of Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine (2010) with more than 20 years of experience. Inspired early by her father, a renowned pedodontist (pediatric dentist), she now practices at Smiley Dental’s Lowell office and helps oversee operations across our locations.
Her clinical focus includes cosmetic, restorative, and preventive care. She provides dental implants, crowns and bridges, dentures (complete, partial, implant-retained), root canal therapy, and tooth-colored fillings. Dr. Khanna is an Invisalign-certified provider and offers clear aligner therapy to improve bite and smile alignment. She welcomes patients of all ages and pays special attention to seniors and people with disabilities.
Dr. Khanna founded Smiley Dental in 2013 and has grown it into a multi-location, metrics-driven Dental Service Organisation (DSO) alongside her husband, Rahul, employing more than 60 team members. Outside the office, she’s active in the local community and enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, hiking, and exploring nearby trails.

Dr. Payal Patel completed her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at New York University College of Dentistry, following her undergraduate studies at Adelphi University. She is passionate about patient-centered care, and takes special care to listen to patient concerns, help ease anxiety, and deliver treatment in a collaborative, empathetic way.
At Smiley Dental, Dr. Patel offers a full spectrum of dental services—from preventative and restorative care to cosmetic dentistry and emergency treatment. She believes in building trust and communication, so patients feel comfortable asking questions and participating in their own treatment decisions.
Outside the clinic, Dr. Patel values community, professional growth, and patient education. She strives to stay current with emerging techniques and technologies, and she brings warmth and professionalism to every interaction, helping patients of all ages smile with confidence.

Dr. Rhea Vohra is a compassionate and skilled dental professional dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from New York University College of Dentistry, where she developed a strong foundation in comprehensive and pediatric dentistry. Her passion for helping patients achieve healthy, confident smiles is reflected in her gentle approach and commitment to excellence.
At Smiley Dental, Dr. Vohra offers a wide range of services including preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dental care. She believes in building lasting relationships with her patients through trust, education, and open communication, ensuring that every visit is comfortable and stress-free. Her attention to detail and dedication to patient well-being make her an integral part of the Smiley Dental team.
Beyond the office, Dr. Vohra enjoys connecting with her community and staying current with the latest advancements in dental care. Her warm demeanor, professionalism, and passion for dentistry inspire confidence and comfort in every patient she treats.