What is it?
Beneath the outer layers of a tooth there is soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels. This tissue is called the pulp, and the narrow channels it runs through are called root canals.
Deep decay, a crack or an injury can cause the pulp to become inflamed or infected. In root canal treatment this tissue is removed, the canals are shaped and disinfected, and they are sealed with a special filling material. The aim is to keep the tooth in the mouth instead of extracting it.
Who may it suit?
Root canal treatment may be considered in the following situations:
- Decay that has reached the nerve of the tooth
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the stimulus is gone
- Pain when chewing or when the tooth is touched
- Swelling or infection in the gum
- A tooth that has changed colour after an injury
- Inflammation at the root tip seen on an X-ray without any symptoms
These signs can also be caused by other problems. Whether root canal treatment is needed is shown by examination and X-ray together. It may not be suitable for teeth with severely fractured roots or extensive loss of supporting tissue.
How does the process work?
- Examination and X-ray. The condition of the tooth, the number of roots and the shape of the canals are assessed.
- Local anaesthesia. The area to be treated is numbed.
- Isolating the tooth. The working area is usually separated with a rubber sheet to keep it free of saliva.
- Accessing and cleaning the canals. The canals are reached through the top of the tooth and the inflamed tissue is removed. The canals are shaped with fine instruments and rinsed with disinfecting solutions.
- Filling the canals. The cleaned canals are sealed with a biocompatible filling material.
- Restoring the top of the tooth. The tooth is completed with a filling or, if needed, a crown.
Depending on the condition of the tooth, treatment is completed in one or more visits. A temporary filling is placed between visits.
Frequently asked questions
Will I feel pain during treatment?
The procedure is done under local anaesthesia. After the anaesthetic wears off, the tooth may be tender when chewing for a few days. Your dentist will explain what to do during this period.
Can the tooth be extracted instead?
In some cases extraction is also an option. The gap may then need to be filled with an implant, bridge or denture. Which option is suitable is decided by assessing the tooth and your overall oral health together.
Will the tooth need a crown afterwards?
Teeth that have had root canal treatment, especially back teeth, may become more prone to fracture over time. A filling or a crown is recommended depending on how much sound tooth structure remains.
Can a root-filled tooth cause problems again?
Yes, inflammation can develop again in some cases. The root canal treatment can then be redone or another treatment planned. This is why regular check-ups and X-ray follow-up are important.
What should I watch out for after treatment?
Until the tooth is permanently restored, it is advisable not to chew hard foods on that side. Daily brushing and flossing continue as usual.
What should I do if I have facial swelling or a fever?
Rapidly increasing facial swelling, fever, or difficulty swallowing or breathing need urgent assessment. Details are on the Emergencies page.
Whether it is suitable for you is determined by an examination.