Root canal treatment

Root canal treatment (also called endodontics) is needed when the blood or nerve supply of the tooth (known as the pulp) is infected through decay or injury. If the pulp becomes infected, the infection may spread through the tooth’s root canal system. This may eventually lead to an abscess. If root canal treatment is not carried out, the condition will apply, and the tooth may need removal.

The treatment aims to remove all infection from the root canal, clean it, and fill it to prevent further disease.

Root canal treatment is a skilled and time-consuming procedure; treatment may involve two or more visits. At the first appointment, the infected pulp is removed. Any abscesses, which may be present, can also be drained. The root canal is then cleaned and shaped to be ready for the filling.

A temporary filling is put in, 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 then permanently filled.

Look out for the warning signs of tooth infection:

• Toothache – the number one sign that something is wrong.
• Red swollen gums.
• Throbbing/gnawing pain, especially when chewing.
• Swelling in the jaw or face.
• The area is warm to the touch.
• Foul taste in the mouth.
• Bad breath.