Root Canal

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a procedure that removes infected pulp from inside your tooth. Your dentist cleans and seals the canals to prevent further damage and save your tooth. You might need root canal treatment if bacteria reach the pulp and cause pain or inflammation.

This can happen if:

• You have a deep cavity
• You crack a tooth

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

How do I know if I need this procedure?

You might not notice an infected tooth at first, but root canal 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

If you have root canal pain, don’t wait. Treatment can relieve pain, save your tooth and prevent the infection from spreading. Your dentist can help you decide if it’s the right option for you.

How should I prepare for root canal treatment?

Before treatment, your provider will examine your tooth with X-rays and other tests to confirm the infection. They may:

• Ask if it hurts when you bite down
• Check for swelling in your gums or bone
• Gently tap your tooth or apply hot/cold to check sensitivity
• Use an electric pulp test (EPT) to see if the pulp is alive

What happens during a root canal procedure?

Your 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 the procedure
3. Create a small hole in your tooth’s crown to reach the pulp
4. Remove the infected pulp using tiny tools
5. Clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth
6. Fill the empty space with a rubbery dental material (gutta-percha)
7. Seal the tooth with a temporary filling
8. Place a permanent crown (usually at a later visit) to protect your tooth and restore your bite

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

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.

What are the benefits of root canal treatment?

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

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

What are the risks or complications of this procedure?

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 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.
• Don’t chew on the treated tooth until your permanent crown is placed.
• Eat soft foods for a few days, like mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies or well-cooked pasta.
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash to keep germs away.

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.