Root Canal

A root canal is a treatment to remove infected pulp from inside your tooth. A dentist cleans and seals the canals to prevent further damage and save your tooth.

You might need this treatment if bacteria reach the pulp and cause pain or inflammation. This can happen if you:

• Have a deep cavity
• Crack a tooth

Root canals are common. Good oral hygiene can help you avoid needing one.

What are the benefits and potential risks?

A root canal can:

• Remove infection
• Prevent the infection from spreading or damaging your jawbone
• Save your natural tooth

Most root canals are successful and can last for many years — often a lifetime.

What are the risks and complications of this treatment?

Sometimes, root canals don’t work if the damage is too severe. If that happens, your provider may:

• Re-treat the tooth with another root canal
• Remove the tooth and replace it with an implant or bridge

How do I know if I need this treatment?

You might not notice an infected tooth at first, but symptoms might include:

• A pimple or boil on your gums that may ooze pus
• A swollen jaw from a trapped infection
• Darkened tooth color
• Loose tooth from infection, weakening nearby bone
• Pain that spreads to your jaw, face or nearby teeth
• Pain when chewing or touching the tooth
• Tender or swollen gums

Don’t wait to get help if you have swelling and pain. Treatment can relieve pain, save your tooth and prevent the infection from spreading. A dentist can help you decide if it’s the right option for you.

What happens during a root canal treatment?

A dentist or endodontist will:

1. Numb the area with anesthesia (if you’re nervous, you may get medication to help you relax, and you might be drowsy after)
2. Place cotton or a dental dam to keep the area clean and dry during treatment
3. Make a small hole in your tooth’s crown to reach the pulp
4. Use tiny tools to remove the infected pulp
5. Clean and disinfect the inside of your tooth
6. Fill the empty space with a rubbery dental material
7. Seal the tooth with a temporary filling

Most root canals take about 60 to 90 minutes. Some may require more than one visit.

Later, your provider will place a permanent crown on your tooth to protect it and restore your bite.

Do root canals hurt?

Thanks to modern anesthesia, root canals are usually no more painful than getting a filling. You may feel pressure during the procedure, and mild soreness afterward. Let your provider know if anything hurts — their goal is to keep you comfortable.

If your tooth hurts more after treatment — especially if the pain throbs — call your provider. You may still have infected pulp that needs attention.

What happens after root canal treatment?

You’ll rest briefly in the office after your procedure. You’ll likely have two more appointments: one to prepare for your crown and one to place it.

How long does root canal recovery take?

Most people recover in less than a week. You might have some lingering sensitivity, but you shouldn’t have pain that lasts longer than that. If you do, call your provider.

How can I support healing?

Good care helps with root canal recovery. These simple steps can support your healing and help you avoid complications:

• Avoid smoking, it can slow healing.
• Brush after meals and floss once a day.
• Eat soft foods for a few days, like mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies or well-cooked pasta.
• Wait until the permanent crown is placed before you bite down on the treated tooth.
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash to keep germs away.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Contact your healthcare provider if you have throbbing pain in your tooth.