In the past, when a tooth was severely decayed, diseased, or injured, saving it was often impossible. Today, however, many teeth can be successfully treated with a procedure called root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment.
Why Would I Need a Root Canal?
A root canal treats the pulp — the soft tissue at the center of a tooth that contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue — when it becomes inflamed or infected.
This damage can result from deep decay, cracks or chips, tooth injury, or multiple dental procedures on the same tooth. Signs that you might need a root canal include:
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Severe pain while chewing
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Prolonged sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods/drinks
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Tooth discoloration
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A chipped or cracked tooth
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Swollen or tender gums
If you notice any of these symptoms, see a dentist promptly. Without treatment, the infection can spread, leading to an abscess or tooth loss. Root canal therapy can relieve pain, eliminate infection, and save your natural tooth.
Who Performs Root Canals?
Both general dentists and endodontists — specialists in root canal therapy — can perform this procedure. For more complex cases, your dentist may refer you to an endodontist, who has advanced training and uses specialized tools, such as microscopes, to treat difficult cases more effectively.
How Many Visits Does a Root Canal Take?
Root canal treatment usually takes several visits:
Appointment #1: The dentist or endodontist removes the infected pulp, cleans and shapes the root canals, then fills and seals them. A temporary or permanent filling is placed.
The doctor may also prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. It’s important to take the medication as directed, even if you start feeling better. Stopping treatment too soon can lead to a recurrence of infection, and the bacteria may become resistant to the antibiotics.
Appointment #2: A few weeks later, the temporary filling is replaced with a permanent filling. The dentist checks whether a crown is needed. Back teeth (molars and premolars) often require one; front teeth may not.
Appointment #3: If a crown is needed, the tooth is prepared, and impressions are taken. A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while the permanent one is made.
Appointment #4: About two weeks later, the permanent crown is placed to restore the tooth’s strength and function.
What to Expect After a Root Canal?
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Sensitivity for the first few days after the root canal is normal. Use over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). We recommend taking them immediately after the treatment.
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Take all antibiotics as prescribed by your dentist or endodontist.
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Contact our clinic immediately if you experience severe pain after your appointment.
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Avoid eating until the numbing wears off to prevent injury to your cheek or tongue.
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Eat soft foods like soup, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, applesauce, and pasta. Avoid chewing or biting on the treated tooth until the permanent filling or crown is placed.
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Avoid hard or sticky foods, such as popcorn, nuts, seeds, chips, and caramel which could damage your tooth.
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Brush and floss your teeth as usual — good oral hygiene is essential.
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Schedule a follow-up appointment to place the permanent filling or crown.
What Are the Alternatives to Root Canal?
A root canal is often the final option to save a damaged tooth and preserve its natural function. When the pulp becomes infected or irreversibly damaged, the only alternative is extraction. Although modern tooth replacements like implants and bridges have advanced, they can be more expensive, time-consuming, and less durable than your natural tooth. Whenever possible, saving your natural tooth is the best option.