Root Canal Therapy
Save your natural tooth and eliminate infection with gentle, modern root canal treatment.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment, is a procedure to treat infection or inflammation inside a tooth. The treatment involves removing the damaged or infected pulp tissue from the interior of the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and sealing them to prevent further infection.
Contrary to popular belief, root canal therapy is not painful. With modern techniques and anaesthesia, most patients report that the procedure is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling.
When Is Root Canal Treatment Needed?
A root canal may be necessary when the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected or inflamed. Common causes include:
- Deep tooth decay that reaches the pulp
- A crack or chip in the tooth that exposes the pulp
- Trauma or injury to the tooth
- Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
- A large filling that has compromised the tooth structure
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Symptoms that may indicate the need for root canal therapy include:
- Severe toothache, especially when chewing or applying pressure
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Darkening or discolouration of the tooth
- Swelling and tenderness in nearby gums
- A persistent pimple on the gums near the affected tooth
The Root Canal Procedure
The procedure begins with local anaesthesia to ensure your comfort. Your dentist creates a small access opening in the crown of the tooth and uses specialized instruments to remove the infected pulp tissue. The canals are thoroughly cleaned, shaped, and disinfected.
Once the canals are prepared, they are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha and sealed. In most cases, a crown is placed over the treated tooth to restore its strength and protect it from fracture. The entire process may be completed in one or two visits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is root canal therapy painful?
Modern root canal treatment is performed with effective anaesthesia and advanced techniques. Most patients report that the procedure is comfortable and similar to getting a filling. The pain relief from treating the infection is immediate.
What is the alternative to a root canal?
The only alternative to root canal therapy is extraction of the tooth. However, saving your natural tooth is almost always the preferred option, as it maintains your bite, prevents shifting of adjacent teeth, and avoids the need for more expensive tooth replacement.
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