When is root canal treatment needed?
- Toothache that lingers after hot or cold, or comes on by itself
- Throbbing pain that wakes you at night
- Swelling or a pimple (abscess) on the gum
- Darkening in the colour of the tooth
- Nerve damage caused by deep decay or a fracture
How does the treatment proceed?
- The canal structure is assessed with an X-ray and local anaesthesia is given.
- The decay is removed, the canals are reached and shaped with a rotary instrument system.
- The canals are disinfected and sealed with a special filling material.
- The tooth is restored with a filling or crown. One visit in most cases; 2–3 visits for abscessed teeth.
After treatment
Some tenderness when chewing for a few days is normal. Because a tooth that has had a root canal is more fragile, protection with a crown or onlay is recommended for back teeth.
Frequently asked questions
Is root canal treatment painful?
No. It is done under local anaesthesia. The pain is usually there before the treatment, and the treatment removes it.
How many visits does root canal treatment take?
Most teeth are completed in a single visit (45–90 minutes). If there is an abscess or heavy infection, 2–3 visits may be needed.
Do I need a crown after root canal treatment?
For back teeth, yes; a tooth that has had a root canal is more fragile, and protecting it with a crown extends its life. For front teeth, a filling is often enough.
Wouldn't it be better to just have the tooth pulled?
Your own tooth is always the best option. After an extraction the gap needs an implant or bridge; root canal treatment is more economical and more natural.