Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment is used to save a tooth that’s badly infected or damaged by removing the infected pulp and sealing the inside.
Root Canal Treatments Explained
What Are They?
A root canal is a dental procedure that treats infection at the centre of a tooth. It involves removing the inflamed or infected pulp from inside the root canals, cleaning the area, and sealing it to prevent further infection.
What Will My Dentist Do?
Your dentist will numb the area and carefully remove the infected tissue from inside the tooth. The canals are cleaned, shaped, and filled with a specialised material. In most cases, a crown is then placed to protect and restore the tooth’s strength and appearance.
What Are the Benefits?
Root canal treatment relieves pain, saves the natural tooth, and prevents the need for extraction. It allows you to chew comfortably and maintain your natural smile without needing a replacement tooth.
When Is a Root Canal Needed?
A root canal is usually recommended when a tooth becomes infected due to deep decay, trauma, or a cracked filling. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, sensitivity to hot and cold, or a darkening of the tooth.
Does It Hurt?
Root canal treatment has a reputation for being painful, but modern techniques make it similar to having a filling. The area is fully numbed, and most patients feel relief from the pain caused by the infection.
What Happens After Treatment?
After a root canal, the tooth may feel slightly tender for a few days. Your dentist may place a crown to protect the tooth long-term. With good oral care, a treated tooth can last as long as your natural teeth.