Root Canal Treatment

A root canal saves a tooth that is badly decayed or has become infected. The nerve and pulp — the soft tissue in the centre of the tooth — can become irritated, inflamed and infected through deep decay, repeated procedures on the same tooth, a large filling, a crack or chip, or trauma to the face. During treatment the nerve and pulp are removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed.

The procedure should relieve the pain you came in with. Until it is completely finished — the permanent filling in place, and the crown fitted if one is needed — it is wise to minimise chewing on that tooth. That avoids re-contaminating the inside of the tooth and stops a fragile tooth breaking before it can be fully restored. For the first few days the tooth may feel sensitive from natural tissue inflammation, particularly if there was pain or infection beforehand. Otherwise, brush and floss as normal.