Root canal treatment
When decay or trauma reaches the nerve of a tooth, inflammation and pain can follow. In root canal treatment this tissue is removed, the canals are shaped and sealed, and the tooth stays in your mouth.
Who it is for
- Severe toothache that worsens with heat, cold or at night
- Swelling or an abscess on the gum
- Teeth with a nerve exposed by deep decay or a fracture
- Darkened teeth that have lost their nerve
How it works
- Diagnosis: examination and X-ray find the source.
- Anaesthesia and isolation: local anaesthesia, the tooth is kept dry.
- Cleaning and shaping: the canals are cleaned and disinfected.
- Filling and restoration: canals are sealed and the tooth gets a filling or crown. Usually one to two visits.
Afterwards
The tooth may be tender when chewing for a few days. Avoid hard food on that side until the final filling or crown is in place. Root-filled teeth can be more brittle and are often protected with a crown.
Questions
Is it painful?
It is done under local anaesthesia. The aim is to remove the source of the existing pain.
Why not just extract?
Keeping your own tooth preserves chewing balance and the position of neighbouring teeth. If it is not possible, alternatives are discussed.
How long does a root-filled tooth last?
With a good restoration and care it can last many years.
The information on this page is general. The right treatment for you is decided after an examination.