Root canal treatment (also known as endodontic therapy) is a procedure designed to save a severely damaged or infected tooth. By removing the infected pulp tissue inside the tooth, cleaning the root canals, and sealing them, this treatment can alleviate pain and prevent tooth extraction. With modern techniques, root canal treatment is effective, safe, and no more uncomfortable than a standard filling.

Do You Need a Root Canal?

You might require a root canal if you experience:

• Severe toothache when chewing or applying pressure.
• Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, even after the stimulus is removed.
• Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the affected tooth.
• Discolouration of the tooth.
• A small pimple or bump on the gums, which could indicate an abscess.

Root canal treatment becomes necessary when the inner pulp of a tooth becomes inflamed or infected due to:

• Deep decay (cavities).
• Cracks or chips in the tooth.
• Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth.
• Trauma to the tooth, even if there are no visible cracks.

What Happens During a Root Canal?

The treatment typically requires one or two visits and involves the following steps:

1. Diagnosis and Preparation:

Your dentist will examine the tooth and take X-rays to assess the extent of the damage and confirm the need for a root canal.

Local anaesthesia is administered to numb the area, ensuring a comfortable procedure.

2. Removal of Infected Tissue:

An opening is made in the tooth’s crown to access the pulp chamber. The infected or inflamed pulp is carefully removed using specialised tools.

3. Cleaning and Shaping the Canals:

The root canals are cleaned thoroughly to eliminate bacteria and debris. The canals are then shaped to prepare them for filling.

4. Sealing the Canals:

After cleaning, the root canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha to seal them and prevent reinfection. The access hole in the tooth is temporarily or permanently filled.

5. Final Restoration:

In most cases, a crown is placed over the treated tooth to restore its strength, function, and appearance.

What to Expect After Treatment

Post-procedure, it’s normal to experience mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage this. Most patients can return to their regular activities the same day. If the pain persists for more than a few days or worsens, you should contact your dentist.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

• Saves the tooth: Avoids the need for extraction, preserving your natural smile.
• Alleviates pain: Resolves toothache and discomfort caused by infection or inflammation.
• Prevents complications: Stops the spread of infection to other teeth or tissues.
• Durable results: With proper care, a root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime.

Potential Risks or Complications

While root canals have a high success rate, complications can occasionally arise:

• Persistent infection if some bacteria are not fully removed.
• Fracture of the treated tooth if it isn’t protected with a crown.
• Narrow or hard-to-access canals that may require additional treatment.
• How to Care for a Root Canal-Treated Tooth
• To ensure your treated tooth stays healthy:
• Brush and floss regularly to prevent further decay.
• Avoid biting hard objects like ice or pens.
• Attend regular dental check-ups for professional cleaning and monitoring.

Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals

“Is root canal treatment painful?”

Modern anaesthesia and techniques make root canals relatively painless, comparable to getting a filling.

“How long does the treatment take?”

The procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours, but more complex cases may require a second visit.

“Will I need a crown after a root canal?”

Yes, in most cases, a crown is recommended to protect the tooth and restore its function.

“Can the infection come back?”

Recurrence is rare with proper treatment and oral care. If the tooth becomes reinfected, retreatment may be necessary.

When to See a Dentist

Seek immediate dental care if:

• You experience severe toothache or swelling around the affected tooth.
• You notice a pimple-like bump on your gums.
• Your tooth becomes discoloured, or the pain worsens despite taking pain relievers.

Root canal treatment is a reliable solution for saving teeth that might otherwise be lost to decay or infection. At Yes Dental, we use advanced technology and techniques to ensure your treatment is as comfortable and effective as possible. Say YES to saving your natural teeth—schedule your consultation today!