Root Canals

A root canal is a treatment that removes infected or damaged tissue from inside a tooth to stop pain and save the tooth from extraction. The dentist cleans out the infected area, shapes the inner chamber, and seals it. A crown is often placed afterward to protect the tooth.

Signs that a tooth may need root canal treatment include lingering pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling around the gums, or a darkening tooth. Sometimes there are no symptoms at all, and the issue is found during a routine exam or X-ray. A dentist can confirm the cause through an exam.

Modern root canal treatment is designed to relieve pain, not cause it. Local numbing keeps the area comfortable throughout the procedure, similar to getting a filling. Discomfort comes from the infection itself, before treatment begins. Mild soreness afterward is normal and usually fades within a few days.

Treatment time for a root canal depends on the tooth and how severe the infection is, but most procedures take one to two hours. Some cases are finished in a single visit, while others need a follow-up appointment. Front teeth with a single root often take less time than molars with multiple canals.

After root canal treatment, the tooth is usually restored with a crown to protect it from cracking and restore its strength for chewing. Mild soreness or sensitivity is common for a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Following aftercare instructions helps the tooth heal properly.

An tooth infection usually starts when deep decay, a crack, or an old filling allows bacteria to reach the soft tissue inside the tooth. Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth can also increase the risk. Once bacteria reach that inner layer, the tissue can become inflamed, infected, and painful.

A crown is usually recommended after root canal treatment, since the tooth can become more brittle after the inner tissue is removed. The crown covers and protects the tooth from cracking under the pressure of chewing. Front teeth sometimes only need a filling, depending on how much structure remains.

A root canal is often completed in a single appointment, especially when a crown can be made the same day. More complex cases, or teeth with several canals, may need a second visit. The number of appointments depends on the severity of the infection and the tooth's location in the mouth.