What it is
A root canal treats the soft tissue inside a tooth — the pulp — when it becomes inflamed or infected. The dentist removes the affected pulp, cleans and shapes the narrow canals inside the roots, then seals them. The aim is to settle the infection and keep a tooth that would otherwise need to be removed.
Who it may suit
- Deep decay that has reached the nerve of the tooth
- A tooth that has been cracked, fractured or heavily worn
- Repeated dental work on the same tooth over many years
- An injury to a tooth, even one that looks intact from outside
Signs you may need it
- Lingering pain after hot or cold drinks
- Pain when biting or when pressure is applied to one tooth
- Swelling or tenderness in the gum near a tooth
- A tooth that has darkened compared with its neighbours
- A recurring pimple-like spot on the gum
How the treatment works
- 1
Examination
Clinical checks and an X-ray to confirm which tooth is involved and how far the problem extends.
- 2
Local anaesthetic
The area is numbed before treatment begins so the procedure itself is comfortable for most people.
- 3
Cleaning the canals
The affected pulp is removed and the canals are cleaned, shaped and disinfected.
- 4
Sealing
The canals are filled and sealed, and the access opening is closed with a filling.
- 5
Final restoration
A crown or a definitive restoration is often advised afterwards to protect the tooth from fracture.
Visits and recovery
Root canal treatment is completed in one or more visits depending on the tooth and how much infection is present. Mild tenderness for a few days afterwards is common and usually settles. Your dentist will discuss the likely number of visits for your specific tooth at the consultation.
Benefits
- Allows a natural tooth to be kept rather than removed
- Addresses the source of infection inside the tooth
- Restores normal chewing once the final restoration is placed
Limitations
- A treated tooth becomes more brittle and usually needs a crown
- Outcomes depend on how much healthy tooth structure remains
- Not every tooth can be saved; extraction is sometimes the more predictable option
Risks to be aware of
Every dental procedure carries some risk. Your dentist will discuss these with you in person, based on your own examination and X-rays.
- Persistent or returning infection, which may need re-treatment
- Fracture of a weakened tooth if the final restoration is delayed
- Temporary discomfort or sensitivity after treatment
Aftercare
- Avoid chewing on the treated side until the final restoration is placed
- Take any prescribed medication exactly as directed
- Keep brushing and cleaning between teeth as usual
- Attend the review appointment even if the pain has gone
When to contact the clinic
- Pain or swelling that increases rather than settles
- The bite feels high or uneven after treatment
- The temporary filling comes away
