Root Canal Treatment

Root canal therapy is a dental procedure performed when the soft inner tissue of a tooth—called the pulp—becomes inflamed or infected. This can happen due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, cracks, trauma, or bacterial infection. Rather than removing the tooth, a root canal allows your dentist to clean out the damaged tissue, disinfect the area, and seal the tooth so it can continue functioning normally.

Why a Root Canal May Be Needed

Without treatment, infection inside a tooth can spread, leading to pain, abscesses, or even tooth loss. Some people think extraction is the simpler solution, but pulling a tooth often creates new problems. Missing teeth can cause shifting, bite changes, and difficulty chewing, and replacing them with bridges or implants often costs more than saving the tooth with a root canal.

Common Symptoms That May Indicate a Root Canal Is Needed

Persistent or severe toothache
Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
Swelling or tenderness in the gum
A pimple-like bump on the gums
Sometimes, no obvious symptoms are present

Reasons a Dentist May Recommend Root Canal Therapy

Decay reaching the tooth’s pulp
Fracture line extending into the tooth’s pulp
Infection at the root tip or inside the tooth
Extensive damage requiring a post & crown
Damage caused by an injury or fracture

What Happens During the Procedure

Root canal therapy usually takes one or two appointments and can be performed by a general dentist or a specialist called an endodontist. After numbing the tooth, the dentist places a protective barrier to keep the area dry. An opening is created in the tooth, and small instruments are used to carefully remove the pulp and clean out the canals.

Once cleaned, the canals are filled with a biocompatible material to seal them. Depending on the case, a temporary filling may be placed until the tooth is permanently restored. In most situations, a crown is recommended after root canal therapy. The crown strengthens the tooth and protects it from breaking, helping it last for many years.

Aftercare and Long-Term Outlook

It’s normal to have some soreness after the procedure, but this usually improves as healing occurs. Following your dentist’s instructions, practicing good oral hygiene, and keeping up with regular dental checkups will help ensure the long-term success of your treatment. With proper care, a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy can function just like any other tooth and last a lifetime.