Root canal treatment

Teeth are held in the jaw by their roots. Front teeth normally have one root but further back have more. 

Inside, the tooth pulp should be alive, with nerves and a blood supply in the root canal. Root Canal Treatment, (also called Endodontics) is needed when the blood or nerve supply of the tooth (known as the pulp) is infected through decay or injury, destroying this living part and increasing the risk of developing an abscess at the end of the root. 

Root filling means removing damaged or dead pulp and filling the left space. The remaining tooth can be repaired. If Root Canal Treatment (RCT) is not carried out, the infection will spread and the tooth may need to be taken out.

What does it involve?

The aim of the treatment is to remove all infections from the root canal. The root is then cleaned and filled to prevent any further infection. Root Canal treatment is a skilled and time-consuming procedure. Most courses of treatment will involve two or more visits to your dentist.

At the first appointment, the infected pulp is removed. Any abscesses, which may be present, can also be drained at this time. The root canal is then cleaned and shaped ready for the filling. A temporary filling is inserted and the tooth is left to settle. The tooth is checked at a later visit and when all the infection has cleared, the tooth is permanently filled.

What will my tooth look like after treatment?

In the past, a root-filled tooth would often darken after treatment. However, with modern techniques, this does not usually happen. If any discolouration should take place, there are several treatments available to restore the natural appearance.

What if it happens again?

Root canal treatment is usually very successful, however, if there should be a recurrence of infection, the treatment can be repeated.