Understanding Root Canals: What You Should Know
A root canal is a common dental procedure that helps save a tooth by treating its infected or damaged inner tissue. Inside every tooth is a soft area called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. This pulp helps keep your tooth healthy, but when it becomes infected—usually because of deep decay, a crack, or injury—it can cause serious pain and swelling.
During a root canal, your dentist removes the damaged pulp, thoroughly cleans the inside of the tooth, and seals it to stop the infection from coming back. The goal is to relieve your pain and protect the natural tooth from further damage. With proper care, a tooth that has had a root canal can last for many years.
Why Might You Need a Root Canal?
Root canals are usually needed when tooth decay or injury has reached the pulp inside the tooth. If a cavity is left untreated, bacteria can move deeper into the tooth, leading to infection. Cracks, chips, or trauma can also let bacteria reach the pulp.
Some signs that you might need a root canal include:
- Ongoing or severe tooth pain
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that doesn’t go away
- Pain when chewing or biting
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums
- Tooth discoloration
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a dentist quickly. Treating the issue early can prevent more serious dental problems down the line.
Who Can Get a Root Canal?
Most people with an infected or damaged tooth can benefit from a root canal. Your dentist will do a full exam, which may include X-rays, to check the health of your tooth. If the pulp is infected or exposed, a root canal is usually the best way to save the tooth and avoid an extraction.
Thanks to modern tools and techniques, root canals today are safe, effective, and typically involve little to no discomfort.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
Here's what to expect during your visit:
- Numbing the Area: First, your dentist will use local anesthesia to keep you comfortable.
- Isolating the Tooth: A small protective sheet (called a dental dam) is placed to keep the area dry and clean.
- Cleaning the Inside: The dentist will remove the damaged pulp and clean the inside of the tooth.
- Filling and Sealing: The cleaned space is filled with a special material and sealed to prevent further infection.
- Final Touch: A tooth-colored filling or crown is placed to restore strength and appearance.
After your appointment, you may feel some mild soreness for a day or two, but this usually goes away quickly. Your restored tooth should feel and function like your other natural teeth.
