Root Canal Therapy
Modern root canal treatment is comfortable and effective — saving your natural tooth and relieving pain quickly.
Understanding Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is a dental procedure designed to save a tooth that is severely infected or damaged. Inside every tooth is a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed — due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma — root canal therapy removes the damaged tissue and seals the tooth to prevent further infection.
Thanks to modern techniques and anaesthesia, root canal therapy is no more uncomfortable than getting a regular filling. In fact, most patients experience immediate relief from the pain caused by the infection.
Warning Signs You May Need Treatment
If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your dentist promptly:
- Persistent or severe toothache
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the stimulus is removed
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums near a tooth
- A darkened or discoloured tooth
- A recurring pimple (fistula) on the gums
- Pain when biting or chewing
The Treatment Process
Root canal therapy typically requires one to two appointments, depending on the complexity of the case. The procedure involves:
- Administration of local anaesthesia for complete comfort
- Placement of a rubber dam to keep the tooth dry and isolated
- Creation of a small opening in the crown of the tooth
- Removal of the infected or damaged pulp tissue
- Careful cleaning, shaping, and disinfection of the root canals
- Filling the canals with a biocompatible material (gutta-percha)
- Sealing the tooth with a temporary or permanent filling
- Placement of a crown to protect and restore the treated tooth
Recovery and Aftercare
Most patients return to their normal routine within a day or two. Mild discomfort or tenderness near the treated tooth is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics if infection was present.
A crown is typically recommended following root canal therapy to protect the tooth from fracture and restore it to full function. With proper care, a root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to extract a tooth or get a root canal?
Saving your natural tooth with root canal therapy is almost always preferred over extraction. Your natural tooth provides the best function and appearance, and it is typically less expensive than tooth replacement options like implants or bridges.
How successful is root canal therapy?
Root canal therapy has a success rate of over 95 percent. Most teeth treated with root canal therapy last as long as your other natural teeth.
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