Severe or throbbing toothache, especially at night
For patients
What to know about root canal treatment
Endodontics aims to preserve your natural tooth even when the tissue inside it is damaged or inflamed.
What is endodontics?
Root canal treatment in brief
Endodontics deals with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases affecting the dental pulp and tissues around the root tip. During root canal treatment, inflamed or damaged tissue is removed before the canal is cleaned and filled.
The aim is usually to preserve the patient’s natural tooth. A dentist may refer complex anatomy, retreatment or microsurgical cases to an endodontist.
When to seek help
Signs that need assessment
Persistent sensitivity to heat or cold
Swelling or a bump on the gum beside a tooth
A tooth that has darkened after trauma
Procedure
How treatment is performed
Preparation
The tooth is opened under local anaesthesia and inflamed tissue and bacteria are removed from the canal.
Cleaning and filling
The canal is cleaned and filled before the tooth is sealed with a permanent restoration.
Magnified precision
For complex root canals, a microscope helps the clinician work with greater precision.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions from patients
Does root canal treatment hurt?
Modern root canal treatment is performed under local anaesthesia and is generally painless, much like receiving a filling. Treatment helps relieve the pain that brought the patient to the dentist.
How many visits are needed?
Root canal treatment usually takes one or two visits. The number and length of visits depend on the tooth and the complexity of the case.
Is success guaranteed?
No treatment result can be guaranteed completely. Depending on complexity, success rates are commonly around 70–95%, and retreatment may be possible when needed.
What complications are possible?
Temporary tenderness and local swelling are the most common. The tooth should be monitored afterwards and may be recommended for a crown after successful treatment.
When should I see an endodontist?
An endodontist may be appropriate for complex cases, retreatment or microsurgical treatment, often following a referral from a general dentist.
Information on this website is general and does not replace consultation, diagnosis or a treatment plan from a dentist.