Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment has an undeserved reputation for being painful. The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, which thoroughly numbs the affected tooth and surrounding area, meaning you should not feel pain during the treatment itself. Many patients report that having a root canal is no more uncomfortable than having a filling. Any discomfort associated with a tooth requiring root canal treatment usually comes from the infection itself rather than the procedure. After treatment, some mild tenderness or sensitivity is normal for a few days and can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.

The length of time required depends on the complexity of the case and the number of root canals within the affected tooth. A straightforward root canal on a front tooth, which typically has a single canal, can often be completed in one appointment lasting around 60 to 90 minutes. Back teeth such as molars have multiple canals and may require two or more visits to ensure all infected tissue has been thoroughly removed and the canals are properly sealed. Your dentist will give you a clear indication of how many appointments are likely to be needed at your initial consultation at Etwall Dental Practice.

In many cases, yes. Once the infected pulp is removed and the root canal is filled and sealed, the tooth can become more brittle than a living tooth. This is particularly true for back teeth, which absorb the significant forces involved in chewing. Fitting a dental crown over the treated tooth provides protection and restores its full strength and function. For front teeth, where biting forces are less intense, a crown may not always be necessary and the tooth may simply be restored with a filling. Your dentist at Etwall Dental Practice will advise on the most appropriate restoration for your individual situation.

In the days following root canal treatment, avoid chewing on the treated side of your mouth until any temporary filling or permanent restoration is in place. Over-the-counter pain relief can help manage any mild discomfort that is normal in the first few days. Continue to brush and floss normally, including around the treated tooth. It is important to return for any follow-up appointments to have the permanent filling or crown fitted, as this protects the tooth from reinfection and restores its strength. If you experience severe pain or swelling that worsens after the first few days, please contact us promptly.

A tooth becomes infected when bacteria from the mouth find a way into its inner pulp chamber. This most commonly happens as a result of deep tooth decay that has progressed through the outer layers of the tooth, the enamel and dentine, and reached the pulp. A crack or chip in the tooth, whether caused by trauma, injury, or biting on something hard, can also provide an entry point for bacteria. A loose or broken filling that is no longer properly protecting the tooth can similarly allow bacteria to penetrate. Once bacteria reach the pulp, the infection can spread through the root canals and into the surrounding bone if not treated promptly.

Root canal treatment has a high success rate, but in a small number of cases the tooth can become reinfected. This can occur if the canals were not fully cleaned during the original procedure, if a new crack develops in the tooth, or if new decay reaches the pulp. When this happens, retreatment may be possible — the canals can sometimes be reopened, cleaned, and resealed. In cases where retreatment is not possible, an endodontist may perform an apicectomy, which involves removing the tip of the root and sealing it from below. Our team will discuss all available options with you if this situation arises.