Many persons come into the dental clinic requesting or suggesting a root canal. But it seems that root canal treatment is one of the mysteries of dentistry from the point of view of the average person. It is the most expensive of the regular procedures. Without a doubt the process is traditionally associated with terrible pain and a serious dent in one’s wallet. So, let us try to unravel that mystery if indeed it is.

Now, what is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment, (also called Endodontic treatment) is needed when the blood or nerve supply of the tooth (known as the pulp) is infected through decay or injury. The end result is that the tooth either becomes extremely painful or literally lifeless and therefore incapable of eliciting any pain at all. It consists basically of filling the canal while a regular filling is basically filling the crown of the tooth.

Why is root canal treatment needed?
If the pulp becomes infected, the infection will spread through the root canal system of the tooth, which may eventually lead to an abscess.
If root canal treatment is not carried out, the infection will spread and the tooth may need to be taken out. Needless to say, severe pain is generally present with a dental infection.

Does it hurt?
No. A local anaesthetic is used and the entire procedure should feel no different to that of having an ordinary filling done.

What does it involve?
The aim of the treatment is to remove all infection from the root canal.
The root is then cleaned, sterilised and filled to prevent any further infection.
Root Canal Treatment is a skilled and time-consuming procedure. Most courses of treatment will involve two or more visits to your dentist. At the first appointment, the infected pulp is removed. Any abcesses, which may be present, can also be drained at this time. The root canal is then cleaned and shaped ready for the filling. A temporary filling is inserted and the tooth is left to “settle”. The tooth is checked at a later visit and when all the infection has cleared the tooth is permanently filled.

What will my tooth look like after treatment?
In the past, a root filled tooth will often darken after treatment. However, with modern techniques, this does not usually happen. If any discolouration should take place, there are several treatments available to restore the natural appearance.

What if the disease re-occurs?
Root Canal Treatment is usually very successful. However, if there should be a re-occurrence of infection, the treatment can be repeated.

Is it expensive?
Yes. Root Canal Treatment generally is among the more costly dental procedures due to the length of time required, as well as the skill and material needed. It is, however, worth it when one considers that it’s the only way to save a tooth which is in very poor health.

What if I don’t have the treatment?
The alternative to RCT is the removal of the tooth. Once the pulp is destroyed, it can’t heal and it is not recommended to leave an infected tooth in the mouth. While some people would prefer an extraction, it is usually advisable to keep as many natural teeth as possible.

Will the tooth be safe after treatment?
Yes. However, it is sometimes advisable to restore the tooth with a crown to provide it with extra support, strength and natural appearance if the crown was significantly lost.

What would you say is a disadvantage of having root canal treatment done if there is any.

The tooth becomes inert (lifeless) and the body will eventually absorb the root although that may take many years.