Root Canal Treatment

A root canal is one of the most misunderstood procedures in dentistry. Despite its reputation, most patients report that the procedure itself is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. What causes pain is the infection before the root canal — the treatment relieves it.

Why You Might Need One

Root canal treatment becomes necessary when the pulp inside a tooth — the soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels — becomes infected or severely inflamed. This can happen from deep decay, a cracked tooth, repeated dental procedures on the same tooth, or trauma. Signs include severe toothache, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, darkening of the tooth, or swelling in the nearby gum.

How the Procedure Works

Your dentist or endodontist numbs the tooth and surrounding area with local anesthesia. A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth, and the infected pulp is removed using fine instruments. The inside of the tooth is cleaned, shaped, and disinfected, then filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. In most cases a crown is placed over the tooth afterward to protect it.

What to Expect

• One to three appointments depending on the complexity
• The tooth and surrounding area are fully numbed before any work begins
• Mild soreness for a few days after, managed with over-the-counter pain relievers
• A temporary filling is placed if a second appointment is needed
• A permanent crown is usually recommended after the root canal is complete

Who Performs Root Canals

General dentists perform root canals on front and premolar teeth. Complex cases — particularly back molars with multiple curved roots, or cases where a previous root canal has failed — are referred to an endodontist, who specialises in root canal treatment.

What Happens If You Skip It

An untreated infected tooth will not heal on its own. The infection can spread to surrounding teeth, the jawbone, and in rare cases into the neck or brain. Tooth extraction is the only alternative to root canal treatment for a severely infected tooth.