Root Canals
Root Canals are a common dental procedure aimed at saving a tooth that is severely infected or decayed. Despite their reputation, modern root canals are typically no more uncomfortable than having a filling placed, and they can save your natural teeth, preventing the need for bridges or dental implants.
A root canal is a procedure that involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp from the inside of the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the area, then filling and sealing it. Each of your teeth has a pulp, often referred to as the nerve, which can become infected due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or a crack or chip in the tooth.
- Saves your natural tooth
- Restores normal sensation and biting force, allowing you to maintain your natural chewing ability.
- Preserves the natural appearance of the tooth and protects other teeth from excessive wear or strain
The root canal procedure starts with an oral exam and X-rays to determine the extent of the infection. The dentist will numb the area and place a small protective sheet (dental dam) over the area to isolate the tooth and keep it clean during the procedure. Using special tools, the dentist will remove the pulp, clean the inside of the tooth, and then fill and seal it. Finally, a crown is usually placed over the tooth to protect it and restore it to full function.
After a root canal, it’s important to follow good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. Avoid chewing on hard foods with the treated tooth until it has been fully restored by your dentist. With proper care, most teeth treated with a root canal can last a lifetime.
Root Canals FAQs
A root canal is a dental procedure to remove the infected or damaged pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth) and clean out the root canals of the tooth so that the infection doesn’t spread. It’s needed when decay or trauma has exposed or damaged the pulp, causing pain, sensitivity, swelling or risk of infection.
First you’ll have an exam and likely X-rays to evaluate the extent of the issue. Then local anesthesia is used to numb the tooth area. The dentist removes the damaged pulp, cleans and shapes the canals, disinfects the tooth, fills and seals the space, and often recommends placing a crown afterward to protect the tooth structure.
With modern techniques and anesthesia, the procedure itself should cause little to no pain. Most patients find it more comfortable than living with the pain of an infected tooth. After the procedure, you may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity that usually resolves in a day or two.
After treatment, you’ll want to maintain good oral hygiene (brushing, flossing) and schedule follow-up visits. The tooth often needs a permanent restoration (such as a crown) to protect it and restore full function. Avoiding heavy chewing on the treated tooth until final restoration is in place will help ensure long-term success.
Yes — with proper care, a root-canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime. However, delaying treatment when you have signs of pulp damage or infection can lead to further complications: the infection can spread into surrounding bone, cause greater pain, weaken the tooth and ultimately lead to extraction. The sooner you address the issue, the better the outcome.
