Root filling treatment, or root canal therapy, is designed to save a tooth that has become infected or severely decayed. Inside each tooth is an inner chamber containing soft tissue called the pulp, comprised of small nerves and blood vessels. Decay caused by excessive sugar can enlarge to such an extent that it contacts the delicate vessels in the pulp chamber. When this happens, bacteria get inside the pulp and cause the death of the nerves and blood vessels, ultimately leading to pain, swelling, and infection. On other occasions, a tooth can die due to an accident which traumatises the tooth or repeated overloading forces from a poor bite.
The diagram below shows the four stages of a root canal treatment. The black decay goes into the H-shaped nerve tube, causing the red abscess. The instrument cleans the nerve tube, effectively disinfecting it. The pink, hard rubber fills the nerve tubes, and the bone starts to heal. The tooth is restored with a white filling or crown.
Before
After, showing the individualistic shape of this tooth’s nerve tubes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is root canal treatment, and why do I need it?
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Root canal treatment, also called root filling or endodontic therapy, is necessary when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or damaged due to decay, trauma, or a crack. If left untreated, this can lead to pain, swelling, and further infection. The treatment helps save the tooth and prevent the need for extraction.
Does root canal treatment hurt?
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With modern dental techniques and anesthesia, root canal treatment is typically no more uncomfortable than getting a standard filling. Most patients feel significant relief from pain after the procedure as the infection and inflammation are addressed.
How long does the procedure take?
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The duration of the treatment depends on the complexity of the case, but most root canals can be completed in one to two appointments. Each session typically lasts about 60 to 90 minutes, allowing the dentist to clean, fill, and seal the tooth properly.
What should I expect after the treatment?
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After the treatment, you may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. In most cases, the treated tooth will need to be restored with a crown to ensure its strength and function.
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