Root canal is a treatment to repair and save a badly damaged or infected tooth instead of removing it. A root canal treatment is a dental procedure involving the removal of the soft center of the tooth, the pulp. The pulp is made up of nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels that help the tooth grow.

What is a root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure which is done in severely infected tooth or tooth with abscess. In this treatment inflamed part of the tooth is removed. Inside of the canal is then cleaned and shaped and filling is done to seal the space.

What are the signs of needing a root canal treatment?

• Severe pain
• Abscess on gums
• Fractured tooth
• Deep caries
• Discoloration of tooth

How does endodontic treatment save the tooth?

In root canal treatment infected tissues of the pulp are removed and thorough cleaning of the canals is done and canals are disinfected, then the canals are filled.

Will I feel pain during root canal treatment?

While doing the root canal procedure, proper anaesthetic agent is given to avoid pain during the treatment. In the initial appointment, there might be sensitivity because of the inflammation of the pulp tissue

Will the tooth need any special care or additional treatment after endodontic treatment?

You should not chew or bite on the treated tooth till you get a crown or prosthesis done for that tooth. Unrestored tooth are more susceptible to fracture. You have to maintain oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing.

Is it better to have a root canal treatment or extraction?

It is always better to save the tooth whenever it is possible because it will maintain integrity of the mouth. Extraction of the tooth is a complex procedure and it may also affect gums and neighbouring teeth.

What happens if you don’t get a root canal treatment?

If the tooth is left untreated, the infection of the tooth can spread to other part of the body and sometimes can even be life threatening.