Saving the tooth
Root canal treatment
The aim is to keep the natural tooth in the mouth as long as possible.
Overview
Overview
Root canal treatment may come up when deep decay, a crack or trauma affects the inner tissue of the tooth (the pulp). The procedure involves cleaning, shaping and filling the root canals.
It is done under local anaesthetic. Restoring the tooth properly afterwards is also important.
The process
The process
Diagnosis
The tooth is assessed through examination and imaging.
Canal cleaning
The canals are cleaned, shaped and filled.
Restoration
The tooth is protected with a filling or crown.
Good to know
- Seeing someone early when there are symptoms makes the process easier.
- Treatment may be completed in one or several visits.
- The tooth may need a crown afterwards.
Frequently asked
It is done under local anaesthetic. Short-lived sensitivity can follow; your dentist will tell you what to expect.
No. In some cases there is not enough tooth structure. That decision is made after examination.
Related treatments
The information on this page is general and does not replace diagnosis or treatment advice. The right approach for you is decided by your dentist after an examination.
Let's talk about it.
An examination is needed to decide the right approach for you. Leave an appointment request and our team will get back to you.
