What is root canal treatment?
Inside every tooth is the pulp — soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels. Deep decay, cracks or trauma can allow bacteria to reach the pulp, causing inflammation or infection. Root canal treatment (RCT) cleans and disinfects the root canals and seals them to prevent reinfection.
After RCT, a back tooth in particular is often restored with a crown to protect it from fracture.
Common reasons patients seek root canal treatment
- Persistent or throbbing toothache
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Swelling of the gum or face near a tooth
- A darkened tooth after injury
- A pimple-like bump on the gum (sinus tract)
Who may benefit?
- Patients whose tooth has enough healthy structure to be restored
- People who prefer to keep a natural tooth rather than extract it
- Teeth with a previous root canal that has become reinfected may benefit from retreatment
Only a dental examination can confirm whether this treatment is right for you.
How the treatment is evaluated and performed
- DiagnosisExamination, sensitivity tests and an X-ray identify the affected tooth and the extent of infection.
- Anaesthesia & isolationThe tooth is numbed, and isolated where possible with a rubber dam to keep it clean and dry.
- Cleaning & shapingThe infected pulp is removed and the canals are cleaned, shaped and disinfected.
- SealingCanals are filled with a biocompatible material and the tooth is sealed temporarily or permanently.
- Final restorationA filling or crown restores strength and function, usually soon after RCT.
Consultation and diagnostic process
Your dentist will take X-rays to view the roots and surrounding bone. Some complex cases may benefit from a CBCT scan. RCT may be completed in one or more visits depending on infection and anatomy.
General recovery and aftercare
- Some tenderness for a few days is normal
- Avoid chewing hard food on the tooth until it is fully restored
- Take medication only as advised by your dentist
- Return promptly for the crown or final filling — an unrestored tooth is at higher risk of fracture
- Contact us if swelling increases or pain worsens
Your dentist will provide aftercare instructions specific to your treatment. Clinic to review aftercare text
Potential risks and limitations
- Some teeth have complex or calcified canals that are difficult to treat
- Persistent infection may require retreatment or a minor surgical procedure
- A cracked root may mean the tooth cannot be saved
- Instrument separation is an uncommon complication
Your dentist will discuss risks, benefits and alternatives with you before you consent to treatment.
Treatment cost guidance
Root canal cost varies with the tooth (front teeth usually have fewer canals than molars), complexity, whether it is a retreatment, and the type of crown. An estimate is provided after examination.
Frequently asked questions
Is root canal treatment painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia. Most people find it similar to having a filling, though the tooth may be tender for a few days afterwards.
How many visits does RCT need?
Many root canals are completed in one or two visits. Severe infection or complex anatomy can need more.
Do I need a crown after a root canal?
Back teeth usually benefit from a crown because they take heavy chewing forces. Your dentist will advise based on how much tooth structure remains.
Is extraction a better option?
Keeping a natural tooth is often preferable when it can be predictably restored. If a tooth cannot be saved, an implant, bridge or denture may be discussed.
This page provides general information and is not a substitute for a dental examination. Content to be reviewed by a qualified Dental One G dentist before publication. Treatment availability to confirm with clinic