What Is a Root Canal Treatment? Procedure, Benefits, and Aftercare

A root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to save a severely damaged or infected tooth. 

It involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp, cleaning the root canals, and sealing them to prevent further infection. 

This treatment helps relieve pain and preserves the natural tooth, preventing the need for extraction.

Signs You Might Need a Root Canal

Not every toothache requires a root canal, but if you experience any of the following symptoms, you may need to see a dentist for evaluation:

• Severe tooth pain when chewing or applying pressure.
• Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages.
• Swollen or tender gums around a specific tooth.
• Darkening or discoloration of the tooth.
• Persistent pimple-like swelling on the gums, which may indicate an abscess.

Ignoring these symptoms can worsen infection, leading to abscess formation and tooth loss.

Causes of Pulp Damage

The dental pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, can become inflamed or infected due to:

• Deep cavities (tooth decay) that reach the pulp.
• Cracked or fractured teeth that allow bacteria to enter.
• Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth.
• Trauma or injury to the tooth.

Once the pulp is compromised, bacteria spread inside the tooth, leading to pain and potential bone loss around the root.

Step-by-Step Root Canal Procedure

The procedure is typically completed in one or two visits. Here’s what to expect:

1. Initial Examination and X-Ray

The dentist examines the affected tooth and takes an X-ray to assess the extent of infection and check the shape of the root canals.

2. Local Anesthesia and Isolation

A local anesthetic is administered to numb the area, ensuring a painless procedure. A rubber dam is placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free from saliva.

3. Removing the Infected Pulp

The dentist drills a small opening in the tooth’s crown to access the pulp chamber. The infected or dead pulp tissue is carefully removed using specialized instruments.

4. Cleaning and Shaping the Canals

The canals are thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and shaped to prepare for filling. This step ensures no bacteria remain inside.

5. Filling and Sealing the Canals

Once cleaned, the canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. A temporary or permanent filling is placed to seal the opening.

6. Tooth Restoration (Crown Placement)

In most cases, a dental crown is recommended to restore strength and function. This step is crucial for molars and premolars.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

• Pain relief – Eliminates severe tooth pain caused by infection.
• Saves the natural tooth – Prevents the need for extraction.
• Prevents further infection – Stops bacteria from spreading.
• Restores chewing function – Allows normal eating habits.
• Aesthetic benefits – A crown restores the tooth’s appearance.

Without treatment, the infection can spread to other areas, leading to serious complications.

How Long Does a Root Canal Take?

• A single-rooted tooth (front tooth) typically takes 60–90 minutes.
• A multi-rooted tooth (molars) may require 90–120 minutes over one or two visits.

The complexity of the case determines the exact duration.

Aftercare Tips for a Root Canal Treatment

1. Managing Pain and Discomfort

• Mild pain is normal after the procedure and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen.
• Avoid chewing on the treated side until the final restoration is complete.

2. Proper Oral Hygiene

• Brush and floss gently around the treated tooth.
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash to keep the area clean.

3. Diet Recommendations

• Stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and smoothies for the first few days.
• Avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods until the final crown is placed.

4. Follow-Up Appointments

• Visit your dentist to ensure proper healing and to get a permanent crown placed if needed.

Root Canal vs. Tooth Extraction: Which Is Better?

Some patients wonder if it’s better to simply extract the tooth. Here’s a comparison:

A root canal is usually preferred over extraction to maintain oral function and aesthetics.

FAQs

1. Is a root canal painful?

No. Modern root canals are virtually painless thanks to advanced anesthetics and techniques. Patients typically feel relief after the procedure.

2. How long does a root canal last?

With proper care, it can last a lifetime. A well-placed crown significantly increases longevity.

3. Can I drive home after a root canal?

Yes, unless sedation dentistry was used. Local anesthesia does not impair driving ability.

4. Do I always need a crown after a root canal?

Not always. Front teeth may not require a crown unless they are weakened. However, molars and premolars typically need crowns for protection.

5. What happens if I don’t get a root canal?

The infection will worsen, leading to severe pain, abscess formation, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss. The infection can also spread to other areas of the body.

6. Can a root canal fail?

Although rare, failure can occur due to missed canals, new infections, or restoration issues. In such cases, a retreatment or apicoectomy may be needed.

7. Is it normal to feel pain after a root canal?

Mild discomfort is common for a few days but should improve. Severe pain after a week may indicate complications and should be checked by a dentist.

8. What foods should I avoid after a root canal?

Avoid hard, crunchy, sticky, and extremely hot or cold foods until the tooth is fully restored.

9. Can a tooth that had a root canal get infected again?

Yes, if the crown or filling fails, bacteria can re-enter the tooth. Regular dental checkups help prevent this.

10. How much does a root canal cost?

The cost varies depending on location and complexity:

• Front tooth: $300–$1,500
• Premolar: $400–$1,800
• Molar: $500–$2,000

Dental insurance may cover part of the cost.

Final Thoughts

Root canal treatment is a highly effective procedure that saves infected teeth, relieves pain, and restores dental function. 

With proper care and regular dental checkups, a treated tooth can last a lifetime.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of infection, visit a dentist to prevent further complications.

References

• Van Nieuwenhuysen, J. P., & Leprince, J. G. (2023). What ultimately matters in root canal treatment success and tooth preservation: A 25-year cohort study. International Endodontic Journal, 56(5), 544-557. https://doi.org/10.1111/iej.13895
• Burns, L. E., Kim, J., Wu, Y., Alzwaideh, R., McGowan, R., & Sigurdsson, A. (2022). Outcomes of primary root canal therapy: An updated systematic review of longitudinal clinical studies published between 2003 and 2020. International Endodontic Journal, 55(7), 714-731. https://doi.org/10.1111/iej.13736