A root canal treatment might sound intimidating, but it is actually a safe and reliable way of saving a tooth that would otherwise be lost. The need for a root canal usually arises when bacteria from deep decay or a crack reach the nerve of the tooth. The nerve is what keeps the tooth alive, and once it becomes infected you may notice severe toothache, pain at night, or sensitivity that lingers long after hot or cold food.
During a root canal procedure, your dentist carefully removes the bacteria and damaged nerve tissue from inside the tooth. The space is then disinfected and sealed with a special rubber-like material to keep it clean and protected. Afterwards, the decayed part of the tooth is rebuilt with a filling or, in some cases, a crown to strengthen it further.
Root canal treatments can often be completed in one visit, but sometimes two or even three appointments are needed depending on how severe the infection is. It is important to complete all of the visits recommended, even if the pain goes away after the first stage, because leaving the treatment unfinished can allow the infection to come back or even cause the tooth to break. The purpose of a root canal is simple: to get you out of pain and give your tooth a second chance at life. At Root Dental Clinic, we use modern techniques to make the process as comfortable as possible, helping you keep your natural teeth for many years to come.
