Root canal treatment

Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic treatment, is needed when the soft tissue inside a tooth, called the pulp, becomes inflamed or has already died. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels and sits in the centre of the tooth. When it is damaged by tooth decay, a deep filling, a crack, or other irritation, it can lead to severe toothache, infection, and sometimes an abscess. The aim of treatment is to save the natural tooth and avoid extraction. With modern techniques and careful, precise work, root canal treatment is usually very manageable and often far more comfortable than people expect, with a high success rate.

When is root canal treatment needed?

Common signs include strong, persistent tooth pain, increased sensitivity to hot or cold, tenderness when biting or chewing, or swelling around the gum. A tooth that is turning darker or an unpleasant taste can also be a warning sign. X-rays and a few simple diagnostic tests help us assess the tooth properly and recommend the right next step.

What happens during root canal treatment

Root canal treatment is carried out in a few clear steps, always with strict hygiene and a strong focus on comfort.

1. Diagnosis
   We examine the tooth and take X-rays to confirm whether a root canal is needed. We also assess how far the inflammation has progressed and how many root canals the tooth has.

2. Local anaesthetic
   We numb the tooth with a local anaesthetic so the treatment is comfortable. It works quickly and reliably.

3. Accessing the inside of the tooth
   We gently open the tooth to reach the inflamed or infected tissue inside and create a safe access to the root canal system.

4. Cleaning and disinfection
   The infected or dead tissue is removed. The canals are then cleaned and shaped with fine, flexible instruments and thoroughly disinfected using special rinses to remove bacteria.

5. Sealing the root canals
   Once everything is clean and dry, the canals are filled with a biocompatible material, most commonly gutta-percha, and sealed tightly. This helps prevent bacteria from re-entering.

6. Closing the tooth
   The access opening is sealed with a filling or a temporary restoration. In many cases, the tooth is later stabilised with a crown to protect it and keep it functional for the long term.

7. Crown (usually after around three to six months):
   Root treated teeth can become more brittle over time, so a crown is often recommended. It helps protect the tooth from fractures and supports long-term durability.

Benefits of machine assisted root canal treatment

Compared with traditional hand filing, modern machine assisted root canal treatment offers several important advantages.

• Higher precision:
  Rotary instruments shape the canals more evenly and accurately. This helps us clean complex canal systems more thoroughly, including areas that are difficult to reach by hand.

• More effective cleaning:
  The instruments can remove infected tissue and bacteria more efficiently, supporting a cleaner and more predictable result.

• A more comfortable appointment:
  Because the process is more efficient, treatment time is often shorter, which many patients find easier to manage.

• Fewer X-rays in many cases:
  With electronic working length measurement, we can often reduce the number of X-rays needed during treatment.

• Strong long term success:
  More precise shaping and a tight seal of the canals can reduce the risk of reinfection and improve long term outcomes.

After the treatment

It is normal for the tooth to feel tender when biting for a few days after a root canal. This usually settles quickly. Regular follow-up is important so we can make sure healing is on track and the tooth remains stable. With good aftercare, and often with a crown for protection, a root treated tooth can last for many years, and sometimes for decades.

Conclusion

Root canal treatment is a well established way to save teeth that are badly inflamed or infected. With modern methods such as machine assisted preparation, treatment is more precise, reliable, and comfortable than many people expect. Done early, it can relieve pain, stop infection from spreading, and help you keep your natural tooth for the long term. If your goal is to preserve your teeth whenever possible, endodontic treatment is often the right step.