Keeping your natural tooth helps preserve your smile and prevents bone loss in the jaw.
Root canal treatment, also called endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure aimed at treating infection within the center of a tooth, known as the root canal system. The infection occurs when bacteria from the mouth penetrate the tooth, often reaching the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. If left untreated, this infection can cause severe pain, swelling, and even lead to tooth loss.
Bacteria can enter the tooth for several reasons, including deep tooth decay, issues with existing fillings, or damage caused by trauma to the tooth. During a root canal procedure, the dentist carefully removes the infected tissue, cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, and then seals it to prevent further infection. This treatment not only relieves pain but also helps preserve the natural tooth, maintaining both function and appearance.
Root canal treatment removes infected tissue, helping eliminate pain and discomfort.
The procedure preserves your natural tooth instead of removing it, maintaining normal function.
Cleaning and sealing the tooth stops bacteria from spreading to surrounding teeth and gums.
After treatment, the tooth can function like a healthy natural tooth.
Keeping your natural tooth helps preserve your smile and prevents bone loss in the jaw.
If the pulp becomes infected, the infection may spread through the root canal system which may eventually lead to an abscess. If root canal treatment is not carried out, the infection will spread and the tooth will need to be taken out (See diagram 1).
Local anaesthetic can be used to numb the tooth and the whole procedure should feel no different to an ordinary filling.
To treat the infection in the root canal, the bacteria need to be removed. This can be done by either removing the whole tooth (extraction) or attempting to save it by eliminating the infection with the root canal system (root canal treatment). Before having root canal treatment, you will usually be given local anaesthetic to numb the tooth. The root is then cleaned and filled to prevent any further infection. You will need a permanent filling or crown once the root canal treatment is completed.
Root canal treatment is a skilled and time-consuming procedure. Most cases involve two or more visits to your dentist. At the first visit the infected pulp is removed. Any swellings may be drained at this time. The root canal is cleaned and shaped and a temporary filling inserted to allow the tooth to settle (see diagrams 2 & 3).
While root canal treatment is usually a good treatment option, unfortunately, sometimes it is unsuccessful. This means that the root canal treatment may need to be repeated, may require a referral to an endodontic specialist, or occasionally the tooth may need to be removed. Your dentist will discuss the best option for you, should the situation arise.
Your dentist will discuss all available treatment options and costs prior to commencing treatment. If successful, the tooth will need to be built back up and often a crown may be needed (see diagram 4).
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