Endodontic Treatment

About this procedure

Endodontic treatment (Root canal treatment) is one of the most commonly performed dental procedures, which is required to save a natural tooth and avoid the need for its extraction and replacement.

Inside each tooth is a small space called the dental pulp, commonly known as the ‘tooth nerve’. Deep decay, cracks, chips or repeated dental procedures can damage the pulp and lead to signs and symptoms such as spontaneous pain, pain on biting, lingering hot or cold sensitivity, abscess formation, and swelling.

When a tooth is diagnosed with a diseased pulp, root canal treatment may be recommended as a way to retain the tooth. Treatment is usually completed in stages, often over two visits, with the canals cleaned, shaped, disinfected and then sealed before the tooth is restored.

Some teeth can be treated in one visit, while others need several appointments. After treatment, the tooth is reviewed over time to monitor healing. Some teeth may need a crown or ‘cap’ for added protection.