Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy is necessary when a tooth’s nerve suffers from decay or infection. This treatment aims to save the tooth by removing the pulp (the living tissue within), nerves, bacteria, and any decay, and filling the space with special medicated dental materials to restore the tooth’s functionality.

Opting for a root canal is preferable to saving a tooth that would otherwise need to be removed. Many people believe extraction is the answer to problematic teeth, but removing a tooth can be more expensive and cause complications for the surrounding teeth.

Root canal treatments are generally very successful and can last a lifetime, though occasionally a tooth may require re-treatment due to new infections.

Signs and Symptoms Indicating the Need for Root Canal Therapy:

• An abscess or pimple on the gums.
• Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
• Severe toothache.
• Sometimes, no symptoms are evident.
• Swelling and/or tenderness.

Reasons for Root Canal Therapy:

• Decay has extended to the tooth pulp.
• Infection or abscess has formed inside the tooth or at the root tip.
• The tooth has experienced injury or trauma.

What Does Root Canal Therapy Involve?

Root canal therapy may require one or more visits and can be performed by a dentist or an endodontist (a specialist in root canals).

During the procedure, the tooth will be numbed. A rubber dam will be placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free from saliva. An access opening is created on the tooth’s surface, and root canal files are used sequentially to remove the pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria. Any decay will also be removed with specific dental tools.

After thoroughly cleaning the tooth, it will be sealed with a permanent filling or a temporary one if further appointments are necessary.

At a subsequent visit, usually a week later, the roots and the inner cavity of the tooth will be filled and sealed with special dental materials. A filling will then cover the opening. It is also recommended to cap teeth that have undergone root canal treatment with a crown to protect and fully restore their functionality.

Post-treatment, the tooth may remain sensitive for some time as the inflammation subsides and healing progresses.

After each appointment, care instructions will be provided. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits will help extend the life of your root canal treatment.