Deep decay, cracks or trauma can let bacteria reach the pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth. This causes severe pain, sensitivity to hot and cold, or a swelling. In root canal treatment, the infected pulp is removed, the canals are cleaned and shaped with fine instruments, then sealed. The tooth is then protected with a filling or a crown.
When is it needed?
- Severe or night-time toothache
- Lasting sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swelling or abscess near a tooth
- Deep decay reaching the nerve
- Cracked or traumatised teeth
How it is done
- 1Diagnosis
Examination and X-rays confirm the problem.
- 2Cleaning
Under local anaesthesia, the inflamed pulp is removed and the canals are cleaned.
- 3Sealing
The canals are filled and sealed to prevent reinfection.
- 4Protection
A filling or crown restores the tooth's strength.
Advantages
- Relieves toothache
- Saves your natural tooth
- Prevents spread of infection
- Usually completed in one or two visits
Recovery
- 1–3 daysSome tenderness when biting, eased by simple painkillers.
- Until the crownAvoid chewing hard food on the treated tooth.
- Long termA crowned root-treated tooth can last many years.
Common questions
Is root canal treatment painful?
With modern anaesthesia it usually feels like a normal filling. It relieves pain rather than causing it.
Why not just remove the tooth?
Keeping your natural tooth is usually better for chewing and for the neighbouring teeth, and avoids the cost of replacing it.
This information is general and does not replace a medical consultation. Every case is assessed individually.
