What it is
Inside every tooth is the pulp, a tissue containing nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes inflamed or infected — usually because of deep decay, a fracture or an injury — root canal treatment (endodontic treatment) may be needed.
The treatment aims to control the infection or inflammation, relieve symptoms and keep the tooth. The outcome depends on the diagnosis, the anatomy of the tooth, the restoration and aftercare. Some cases may need further treatment.
Signs that treatment may be needed
- Spontaneous pain, or pain that wakes you at night.
- Prolonged sensitivity to cold or heat.
- Pain when chewing.
- Swelling of the gum or face.
Sometimes there are no symptoms and the problem is found on a routine X-ray.
What happens
- Clinical and radiological diagnosis.
- Local anaesthetic and isolation of the tooth with a rubber dam, to keep the area clean.
- Removal of the pulp, then cleaning, disinfecting and shaping the root canals.
- Filling (obturation) of the root canals.
- Final restoration of the tooth.
It can be done in one or several appointments.
After treatment, the tooth needs a suitable restoration. In back teeth, a restoration covering the cusps, such as an onlay or a crown, may be recommended, depending on the remaining tooth structure and the risk of fracture.
Potential benefits
- Aims to control the infection or inflammation and relieve symptoms.
- In many cases, it allows the natural tooth to be kept.
Limitations and precautions
- The treated tooth becomes more fragile and needs a suitable restoration.
- The success rate is high but not 100%: some cases need retreatment or apical surgery.
- There may be some discomfort in the following days.
- When the tooth cannot be saved, the alternative is extraction.
Frequently asked questions
Does root canal treatment hurt?
It is done under local anaesthetic. The purpose of the treatment is precisely to relieve the pain caused by the infection.
What restoration is needed after treatment?
A root-treated tooth loses structure and is more likely to fracture. The type of restoration depends on the remaining tooth structure and the risk of fracture, and is recommended by the dentist.
Results and treatment times vary from person to person. Treatment is only recommended after an assessment appointment.