Root Canal Treatments
A root canal is a treatment for damaged or infected teeth. During the procedure, a dentist clears away infected root pulp and preserves the natural tooth to keep your smile intact.
When Root Canals Are Used
Root canals are performed by dentists or endodontists. A root canal is a specific type of endodontic treatment, which comes from the Greek word for “inside” (endo) and the Greek word for tooth (odont). Endodontic treatments typically deal with the inside of the tooth, or what is known in dentistry as the root or pulp of the tooth. Pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. The pulp helps develop the hard outer shell of the tooth as it erupts in the mouth.
The pulp of a tooth can become infected or inflamed. This can occur for several reasons, including injuries, cracks, or chips in the tooth. It can also be caused by previous dental procedures.
Most people who end up needing root canal treatments come to the dentist with tooth pain, temperature sensitivity, or pain in the gums.
A root canal is an alternative for tooth extraction, which completely removes the infected tooth from the mouth. Saving the natural tooth can help preserve the alignment of the teeth. It can also prevent the development of an abscess, which is a pus-filled pocket around the tooth’s roots. This spreads the infection, which can lead to bone loss, issues in the face and head, and drainage into the skin.
How Root Canals Work
A root canal procedure typically begins with local anesthesia. A rubber dam is placed in the mouth to keep the area dry and clean. The dentist will then drill into the tooth to access the root of the tooth. The pulp, infected tissue, and nerve tissue are removed from the tooth using root canal files.
After this, the area is thoroughly flushed and cleaned. In some cases, the dentist will permanently fill and seal the hole right away. In other cases, he or she will want you to come back about a week later so the area can be checked and permanently filled and sealed. If this is the chosen route, a temporary filling will be placed in the hole until your next appointment.
At your next appointment, the dentist will use a rubber-like material called gutta percha to fill and seal the hole, along with a sealer paste. Finally, a permanent filling will be placed in the exterior hole that was drilled in the tooth.
Depending on the level of decay in the tooth, you may also need crowns, bridges, or other restorative work to fully secure the remaining tooth.
Root Canal FAQ
What are the signs of an infected tooth?
Infected teeth typically present several symptoms you may notice, including:
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Ongoing sensitivity to cold or heat
- Painful or inflamed gums
- Pimples (abscesses) on the gums
- Darkened, swollen, or infected gum tissue
- Chips or cracks in the teeth
Which kind of dentist will perform a root canal?
Most general dentists can perform root canals. If the case is complex, you may be referred to an endodontist, a specialist in root canal therapy.
Will general or local anesthesia be used?
Root canals are usually performed under local anesthesia. General anesthesia is rare and typically only used in special circumstances due to higher risks.
How can my natural tooth be saved once the pulp is removed?
Although the pulp contributes to tooth development, a mature tooth can function without it. After a root canal, the tooth is typically restored (for example with a crown) so it can continue to function normally.
Are there alternatives to root canals?
An alternative is tooth extraction followed by replacement options such as a bridge, denture, or implant. Root canals save the natural tooth, often requiring less restorative work and recovery time.
Discuss all options with your dentist, including risks, costs, timelines, and potential future treatments.
How can I avoid root canals?
Good oral hygiene is the best prevention: brush and floss regularly, and see your dentist promptly if you feel pain or notice any abnormalities.
Find a dentist for tooth pain
If you’re experiencing tooth pain, visit a dentist for a full diagnosis and treatment. Use the 123Dentist network to find a dental clinic near you.
