Root Canal Treatment

When is a Root Canal Needed?

A root canal is recommended when:

• Advanced tooth decay reaches the pulp.
• Tooth damage caused by trauma or accidents affects the pulp.

How Many Canals Does a Tooth Have?

A tooth can have more than one root canal. Generally, each root has at least one canal, but the number depends on the tooth and its root structure.

How is a Root Canal Diagnosed?

Root canal treatment is determined after your dentist examines an X-ray to confirm pulp damage. If the pulp is infected by bacteria, it will eventually die, allowing the infection to spread through the root canal system.

Symptoms of Pulp Infection

• Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
• Pain when chewing or biting
• Loosening of the tooth

Note: As the infection progresses, symptoms may disappear as the pulp dies, but this doesn't mean the infection is gone. Left untreated, the infection can spread, leading to more severe complications.

Steps of Root Canal Treatment

1. Local anesthesia is administered.
2. The infected portion of the tooth is drilled away.
3. The infected pulp is removed.
4. All canals are located and thoroughly cleaned.
5. The canals are disinfected, and the infected nerve is removed.
6. A paste is placed to fill the cleaned canals.
7. Finally, the tooth is restored with a filling or crown.

What to Expect After Treatment

After root canal therapy, your tooth should no longer be painful, though it may remain sensitive for a few days or weeks. Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol can help with any discomfort. If pain or swelling persists, you should contact your dentist for further evaluation.

Root canal treatment ensures that your natural tooth can function for many years to come, without the need for extraction.