Why a tooth may need root canal treatment
The pulp contains the nerves and blood vessels of the tooth. Deep decay, a crack, a large or repeated filling, or an injury can allow bacteria to reach it. Once the pulp is infected, it usually cannot heal on its own. Signs can include:
- Toothache that lingers or wakes you at night
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that stays after the food or drink is gone
- Pain when you bite or chew
- Swelling of the gum near a tooth, or a small pimple-like bump on the gum
- A tooth that has turned darker after an injury
Some infected teeth cause no pain at all and are only found during a check-up or on an X-ray.
What the treatment aims to do
Root canal treatment removes the inflamed or infected pulp, cleans and shapes the narrow canals inside the roots, and then fills and seals them to help stop bacteria from getting back in.
The goal is to relieve the pain caused by the infection and keep the tooth working, so you can go on chewing with it and avoid the gap an extraction would leave.
What to expect
Every tooth is different, so the plan for yours is explained after it has been examined. In general, treatment involves:
- An examination, usually with an X-ray, to check the tooth and the area around its roots
- Local anaesthetic to numb the tooth and the surrounding area
- Removing the infected pulp and cleaning the root canals
- Filling and sealing the canals
- Restoring the tooth with a filling, and often a crown, to protect it
Treatment may be finished in one visit or may need more than one, depending on the tooth and how much infection is present.
Things to consider
- A tooth that has had root canal treatment can become more brittle, which is why a crown is often advised, especially for back teeth.
- Some tenderness for a few days afterwards is common. You will be told how to look after the tooth while it settles.
- Not every tooth can be saved. If a tooth is badly broken down or split, removing it may be the better choice, and ways to replace it can be discussed.
- Putting off treatment can allow an infection to spread, so it is best to have a painful or swollen tooth checked early.
When to see a dentist
Book a visit if you have toothache that does not settle, pain when chewing, sensitivity that lingers, or swelling near a tooth. A tooth that has been knocked or chipped is also worth checking, even if it does not hurt yet.
Get urgent help: If swelling spreads to your face, eye or neck, or you have a high temperature or difficulty swallowing or breathing, go to a hospital emergency department straight away.
Questions about root canal treatment
Does root canal treatment hurt?
Local anaesthetic is used to numb the tooth before treatment starts. Many people find the procedure feels similar to having a filling. It is common for the tooth to feel tender for a few days afterwards.
How many visits will I need?
It depends on the tooth, the number of canals it has and how much infection is present. Some teeth are treated in a single visit and others need more. You will be told what to expect after your tooth has been examined.
Will I need a crown after root canal treatment?
Often, yes, particularly for back teeth, which take most of the chewing force. A crown helps protect a treated tooth from cracking. Whether you need one depends on how much of the tooth remains.
Read about dental crownsCan I go back to work after the appointment?
Most people return to their usual routine the same day. Your mouth may stay numb for a few hours, so take care with hot drinks and avoid chewing on that side until the numbness wears off.
This page gives general information about root canal treatment and is not a diagnosis. Dr. Ezhilarasi can advise you on the options that suit you after examining your teeth.
