What is root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment (also called endodontics) is needed when the blood or nerve supply of the tooth (known as the pulp) is infected through decay or injury.

Why do I feel pain?

Deep decay, deep cavities, deep fractures, or injury due to trauma, allows bacteria to seep in to the pulp and infect it. Once infected, the pulp cannot heal, but instead becomes swollen and inflamed. This leads to a pressure build-up inside the tooth and intense pain. Pain in the tooth is commonly felt when biting down, chewing on it and applying hot or cold foods and drinks.

Why is root canal treatment needed?

Because the tooth will not heal by itself. If the pulp becomes infected, the infection may spread through the root canal system of the tooth. This may eventually lead to an abscess. If root canal treatment (RCT) is not carried out, the infection will spread and the tooth may need to be taken out.

What does it involve?

Root canal treatment is a skilled and time-consuming procedure. Most courses of treatment will involve two or more visits to your dentist

First, you will probably be given a local anesthetic to numb the area. The pulp is then exposed, which, along with any infected root canal, is cleaned and reshaped. Medication may be inserted into the area to fight bacteria. Depending on the condition of the tooth, the crown may then be sealed temporarily to guard against recontamination, or the tooth may be left open to drain, or the dentist may go right ahead and fill the canals.

If you're given a temporary filling, usually on the next visit it's removed and the pulp chamber and canal(s) are filled to prevent recontamination. If the tooth is still weak, a post may be inserted above the canal filling to reinforce the tooth. Once filled, the area is permanently sealed. Finally, a crown or an onlay is normally placed over the tooth to strengthen its structure and improve appearance.

What if it happens again?

More than 95% of root canal treatments are successful. However, if the infection comes back the treatment can be repeated.

What if I don’t have the treatment?

The only alternative is usually extraction of the tooth, which can cause surrounding teeth to shift crookedly, resulting in a bad bite. Though an extraction is cheaper, the space left behind is likely to require an implant or a bridge, which is more expensive and time intensive than root canal therapy. If you have the choice, it's always best to keep your original teeth.

What happens after treatment?

Natural tissue inflammation may cause discomfort for a few days, which can be controlled by an over-the-counter analgesic. A follow-up exam can monitor tissue healing. From this point on, brush and floss regularly, avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth, and see your dentist regularly.