Root Canal Treatment: Your Questions Answered

If you've ever heard the words "root canal" and felt a little nervous, you're not alone. This common dental procedure has a reputation for being painful and uncomfortable. However, with today's advanced techniques and technologies, root canal treatment is no longer the scary experience it once was. In fact, it's often the only way to save a damaged or infected tooth and prevent the need for extraction or more extensive and costly dental work in the future.

Image: teeth.org.au

So, what exactly is a root canal? It's a procedure that removes the infected or damaged nerve tissue (also called the "pulp") inside your tooth. The reason a root canal is needed is because the pulp can become infected or damaged due to deep cavities, cracks, multiple restorations or trauma. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissue, often causing an abscess with severe pain and potentially leading to the loss of the tooth.

During a root canal, your dentist or endodontist (a dentist specialising in root canal treatment) will numb the area around the tooth with local anaesthetic, so you won't feel any pain. They'll then create a small opening in the top of the tooth and carefully remove the damaged or infected pulp. The inside of the tooth is then thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, and a filling material is placed inside the tooth to seal it. In many cases, a crown is also placed on top of the tooth to protect it and restore its normal shape and function.

After a root canal, you can expect some mild discomfort, but most people are able to return to their normal activities the same day. Over-the-counter pain medication is usually enough to manage any discomfort.

Root canal treatment is a common and highly effective procedure that can save a damaged or infected tooth and prevent the need for more extensive dental work in the future. With today's advanced techniques and technologies, the procedure is no longer painful or uncomfortable. If you're facing a root canal, don't let fear hold you back. Your dentist or endodontist will make sure you're comfortable throughout the entire process and will help you get your smile back in no time.