What Is a Root Canal?
Each tooth has several layers: hard enamel on the outside, dentin beneath it, and soft pulp at the center. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels that keep the tooth alive. When this pulp becomes infected—due to decay, cracks, or trauma—it can cause severe pain, swelling, and sensitivity.
Root canal treatment removes the infected pulp, thoroughly cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent future infection. By preserving the tooth’s structure, root canal therapy helps you avoid extraction and maintain normal chewing function.
Signs You May Need Root Canal Therapy
You may need a root canal if you experience symptoms such as:
- Severe toothache, especially when chewing or applying pressure
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers even after the source is removed
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the affected tooth
- Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
- A pimple-like bump on the gums, which may indicate an abscess
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to contact your dentist promptly. Early treatment can prevent the infection from spreading and protect your overall health.
The Root Canal Process
Root canal treatment is typically completed in one or two visits, depending on the severity of the infection. The process includes:
- Examination and X-rays – Your dentist evaluates the tooth and takes images to determine the extent of the infection.
- Anesthesia – Local anesthesia is applied to ensure you are completely comfortable during the procedure.
- Accessing the Tooth – A small opening is made in the tooth to reach the infected pulp.
- Cleaning and Shaping – The infected tissue is removed, and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and shaped.
- Filling and Sealing – The root canals are filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to prevent reinfection.
- Restoration – In most cases, a crown is placed on the treated tooth to restore strength and appearance.
Thanks to modern dental technology and anesthesia, most patients report that root canal therapy is no more uncomfortable than receiving a standard filling.
The Root Canal Treatment Process
Root canal therapy is typically completed in one or two visits, depending on the severity of the infection.
Pain Relief
The primary benefit of a root canal is eliminating the severe toothache caused by infection or inflammation.
Preservation of Natural Teeth
Root canal therapy allows patients to keep their natural teeth, which is always better for oral health than extraction.
Restored Function
Once restored with a crown, a tooth treated with root canal therapy functions just like a natural tooth, allowing for normal chewing and biting.
Improved Appearance
A crown placed after a root canal can improve the tooth’s appearance, especially if discoloration occurred due to infection.
Long-Term Oral Health
By removing infection and sealing the tooth, root canal therapy helps prevent further complications, protecting surrounding teeth and gums.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
- Pain Relief – Root canal therapy eliminates the pain caused by infection and inflammation.
- Preservation of Natural Teeth – Saving your natural tooth is always better than extraction for long-term oral health.
- Restored Function – Once restored with a crown, the tooth functions normally for chewing and biting.
- Improved Appearance – A crown can restore the tooth’s natural look, especially if discoloration occurred.
- Long-Term Oral Health – Removing infection helps protect surrounding teeth, gums, and bone.
What to Expect After a Root Canal
Most patients experience only mild soreness after treatment, which usually subsides within a few days. Over-the-counter pain medication is often sufficient to manage discomfort. With proper care and regular dental checkups, a tooth treated with root canal therapy can last a lifetime.
Save Your Tooth with Gentle Root Canal Care
If you are experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, contact your dentist to see if a root canal may be the right treatment for you. Early intervention can make all the difference in saving your tooth and protecting your overall health.