What is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment (also called RCT or endodontic treatment) removes infected or inflamed pulp from inside a tooth, then cleans, shapes, and seals the internal canals. It lets you keep your natural tooth instead of having it extracted.
Why is it needed?
When decay, a deep filling, a crack, or trauma allows bacteria to reach the soft pulp inside a tooth, the pulp can become infected. Left untreated this can cause severe pain, an abscess, and eventually tooth loss. Root canal treatment relieves the pain and stops the infection from spreading.
Symptoms & signs
- Persistent or throbbing toothache, especially when biting or chewing
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the source is removed
- Swelling or tenderness in the nearby gum
- Darkening or discolouration of the tooth
- A recurring pimple-like bump on the gum (sign of an abscess)
Common causes
- Deep tooth decay reaching the pulp
- A cracked or chipped tooth
- Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
- Injury or trauma to the tooth (even without a visible crack)
The procedure, step by step
- Examination & X-ray. The dentist assesses the tooth and takes an X-ray to view the canals and surrounding bone.
- Numbing. Local anaesthetic is given so the area is fully numb and the procedure is comfortable.
- Cleaning the canals. A small opening is made, the infected pulp is removed, and the canals are cleaned and shaped.
- Sealing. The disinfected canals are filled with a biocompatible material and the opening is closed with a temporary or permanent filling.
- Crown / final restoration. A back tooth usually needs a dental crown afterwards to protect it from fracture and restore full chewing strength.
Often completed in 1–2 visits, depending on the tooth and level of infection. A follow-up visit is usually needed to place the final crown.
Most people return to normal activities the next day. Mild tenderness for a few days is normal and usually settles with simple pain relief recommended by your dentist.
Benefits
- Relieves toothache and infection
- Saves your natural tooth and preserves the jawbone
- Restores comfortable chewing and biting
- Prevents the infection from spreading to nearby teeth
Possible risks
- Temporary soreness or sensitivity after treatment
- A treated tooth can become brittle if not protected with a crown
- In rare cases, a canal may be difficult to fully clean and further treatment is needed
Alternatives
- Tooth extraction followed by a dental implant, bridge, or denture
- No treatment is not advisable, infection tends to worsen over time
Aftercare
- Avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth until the final crown is placed
- Maintain gentle, thorough brushing and daily flossing
- Take any prescribed medication as directed
- Attend your follow-up appointment to complete the crown
When to visit a dentist
See a dentist promptly if you have a persistent toothache, gum swelling, or lingering sensitivity. Early treatment is more comfortable and more likely to save the tooth.