Root Canal Therapy: What to Expect
What is root canal therapy?
Root canal therapy treats the inside of a tooth when its pulp is inflamed or infected. The goal is to remove affected tissue, clean the root canal space, and seal it so the tooth can be restored. It is one possible way to keep a tooth that might otherwise need removal. Whether it is suitable depends on the tooth and its supporting structures.
Why might it be recommended?
Deep decay, a crack, trauma, or an earlier restoration can affect the pulp. Symptoms may include persistent pain or tenderness, but some teeth have few symptoms. The dentist may examine the tooth, test it, and take an X-ray. Ask what the findings show, whether the tooth can be predictably restored, and what extraction would mean in your case.
What may happen during treatment?
The area is generally numbed. The dentist reaches the inside of the tooth, cleans and shapes the canals, then fills and seals them. Some cases need more than one visit or specialist care. A temporary filling may be used before final restoration. The dentist should explain the plan and what to do if symptoms change between visits.
What happens after the root canal?
The tooth often needs a permanent filling or crown so it can function. Until that work is complete, follow the dentist's instructions about chewing on it. Contact the clinic if pain, swelling, or a change in your bite concerns you. Ask about follow-up and long-term care. The urgent dental care service page explains how to enquire about treatment.