Root canal therapy is a procedure used to save a tooth that has suffered damage from infection or trauma—helping you avoid extraction. By targeting and removing diseased tissue (the pulp) within the tooth, this treatment stops infection spread and restores the tooth’s functionality.
What Is a Root Canal?
Each tooth contains root canals—small channels that run from the tooth’s top to its root tips. These canals house the pulp, comprising nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue essential for tooth nourishment. Depending on a tooth’s location, it may have between one and four root canals. When pulp tissue becomes infected from decay or injury, bacteria can invade the root canals, causing intense pain and sometimes leading to an abscess (a pus-filled pocket).
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
- Persistent pain: Ongoing toothache, especially when biting or applying pressure.
- Heightened sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
- Swollen or tender gums around the affected tooth.
- Abscess formation: Visible swelling or pus discharge near the tooth.
Ignoring these symptoms can allow the infection to worsen, potentially requiring extraction if not promptly treated.
How Root Canal Therapy Works
Root canal treatment typically requires one to three visits and successfully eliminates infection while preserving your tooth structure.
Step-by-Step Overview
- Numbing and access: Your dentist administers a local anesthetic, then drills a small opening in the tooth’s crown to reach the inner chamber.
- Removing infected pulp: Diseased pulp tissue is carefully extracted, relieving pain and preventing further infection.
- Cleaning and shaping: The root canals are meticulously cleaned and shaped to remove bacteria and debris.
- Filling the canals: The canals are sealed with gutta-percha, a rubber-like material, possibly with added medication to thwart any remaining microbes.
- Temporary filling: If multiple appointments are needed, a temporary filling safeguards the tooth between visits.
- Crowning the tooth: In most cases, a dental crown is placed following the root canal to strengthen and protect the treated tooth.
Advantages of Root Canal Therapy
- Preserves your natural tooth and spares you from extraction.
- Relieves pain and infection at its source.
- Prevents spread of bacteria to adjacent areas or teeth.
- Delivers long-lasting results—a root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime with proper care.
Recovery and Aftercare
Most patients report minimal discomfort following a root canal. Any mild soreness or sensitivity usually subsides within a few days, managed easily with over-the-counter pain relievers. To achieve an optimal recovery:
- Maintain diligent oral hygiene—brushing and flossing remain essential.
- Steer clear of hard foods until the permanent crown is in place.
- Attend follow-up visits so your dentist can place the final crown and ensure healing progresses smoothly.
Conclusion
Root canal therapy stands as a proven, effective way to rescue a severely damaged or infected tooth. By eradicating infection and sealing the tooth, it restores normal function and prevents extraction. If you experience persistent tooth pain or sensitivity, consult your dentist—root canal treatment may be the key to saving your tooth. With proper care, a tooth that undergoes a root canal can remain healthy for a lifetime.