Root canal treatment
Saving an infected or badly damaged tooth by cleaning and sealing it from the inside.
General information, not a diagnosis.
What it means
Root canal treatment (RCT) cleans the inside of a tooth when the pulp — the soft tissue at the core — has become infected or severely damaged. After cleaning and shaping, the space is sealed to prevent further infection and the tooth is usually capped with a crown.
When people may ask about it
Persistent toothache, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, swelling near the tooth, discolouration, or a pimple-like bump on the gum may all indicate that the pulp inside a tooth needs attention.
What a visit may involve
The tooth is numbed before the procedure begins. A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth to reach the pulp chamber. The infected tissue is removed, the canals are cleaned and shaped, then sealed with a rubber-like material. A temporary or permanent crown is placed at a follow-up visit.
Aftercare basics
Mild soreness in the area for a few days after treatment is normal. Take any prescribed medication as directed. Avoid chewing on that side until the final crown is placed. Contact the clinic if severe pain, swelling, or the temporary crown comes off.
Questions to ask
- Will root canal treatment be painful?
- Can my tooth be saved, or does it need to come out?
- How many visits will it take?