Root canals have an unfair reputation. Most patients tell us afterward that the treatment itself felt no different from getting a filling. Here's a straightforward walkthrough of what actually happens.
Why a root canal is needed
When the soft tissue inside a tooth (the pulp) becomes infected or inflamed, usually from deep decay or a crack, the infection needs to be removed to save the tooth. Left untreated, it can lead to a painful abscess and eventually tooth loss.
Step 1: Numbing the area
We start with a local anesthetic, the same kind used for a filling. Once the area is numb, you shouldn't feel pain during the procedure, just some pressure.
Step 2: Removing the infected pulp
A small opening is made in the top of the tooth to access the inner chamber. The infected or damaged pulp is carefully removed, and the empty space is cleaned and shaped.
Step 3: Sealing the tooth
The cleaned space is filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to prevent bacteria from re-entering. A temporary filling is placed on top.
Step 4: The crown
In most cases, a root canal treated tooth needs a crown afterward for long-term strength, since the tooth structure is more brittle without its blood supply. We'll schedule this at a follow-up visit.
Recovery
Mild soreness for a day or two is normal and responds well to over-the-counter pain relief. Most patients return to normal eating and activities the same day.
If you're dealing with a persistent toothache, don't wait for it to get worse. Reach out and we'll get you in to take a look.
