A root canal treatment (RCT) is done to repair and save a badly damaged or infected tooth instead of removing the tooth from the mouth.
During a root canal treatment, the dentist removes the severely damaged or infected nerve tissue (called the dental pulp) from inside the tooth. A filling is placed using a material called gutta percha to take up the space where the dental pulp was located.
A tooth can continue to function without the dental pulp after it is removed and replaced with a filling by a root canal treatment.
What damages the dental pulp?
The three main causes of damage to the dental pulp include:
- Tooth decay that travels into the dental pulp causing it to become infected or severely inflamed.
- Severe injury or damage to a tooth. This type of damage can come from playing sports, a car accident or even a fall.
- A crack in the tooth that extends into the dental pulp.
Possible signs and symptoms
There are a few signs and symptoms that mean you might need a root canal treatment.
- Severe pain that does not go away after taking pain medication.
- Severe pain when biting together or while chewing.
- A pimple on the gums next to a tooth.
- Tooth discomfort that continues even after the hot or cold item has been removed from the mouth.
- Deep tooth decay that may or may not be associated with pain or discomfort.
- A swollen area of the face.
Root canal treatment (RCT) process
A root canal treatment often requires multiple appointments.
During the first appointment, the damaged dental pulp tissue is removed using small metal files and disinfectant. Local anaesthetic is given to ensure the treatment is pain-free. A temporary filling is placed at the end of the treatment.
The next appointment may take place two weeks later. The dentist cleans the canal further with small metal files and disinfectant. A temporary filling is placed at the end of the treatment.
In third appointment, the disinfected space is filled with a material called gutta-percha. This root canal filling is sealed as a barrier from stopping bacteria from re-entering the space. The crown of the tooth is then fixed with a filling or a crown.
