A way to save teeth that might otherwise be extracted because of deep decay or infection: what to know about root canal treatment.
What is a root canal treatment?
Inside the tooth is a canal system that holds the nerve and blood vessels. When decay or trauma infects this area, the canal is cleaned, disinfected and sealed with a special filling material. This way the tooth can stay in your mouth instead of being extracted.
Which symptoms call for it?
- Toothache that gets worse at night or starts on its own
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
- Swelling around the tooth or a bad taste in the mouth
- Darkening of the tooth colour
How does the process go?
Before treatment, the canal structure is assessed with an X-ray. The tooth is cleaned comfortably under local anaesthesia. Depending on the case, treatment can be finished in one or a few sessions; the tooth is then usually strengthened with a filling or crown.
After treatment
Mild sensitivity can occur for the first few days. Following your dentist's care advice and attending check-ups helps the tooth keep working for many years.
The information on this page is for general purposes only. The treatment that suits you is decided by your doctor after the examination.
