26/03/2026
Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure performed to save a tooth that has become infected or damaged deep within the tooth’s root canals.
It involves removing the infected or damaged pulp tissue from the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and filling them with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha.
Here is a step-by-step guide to the root canal treatment process:
✅ An initial examination and X-rays are taken to determine the extent of the infection or damage to the tooth.
✅ Local anaesthesia is administered to numb the area around the tooth, ensuring a pain-free procedure.
✅ A rubber dam is placed around the tooth to isolate it from saliva and keep it clean and dry during the treatment.
✅ An access hole is made in the tooth, typically through the crown, to reach the pulp chamber and root canals.
✅ Using specialized instruments, the infected or damaged pulp tissue is carefully removed from the tooth’s root canals.
The root canals are shaped and cleaned, removing any debris or bacteria.
✅ Once the root canals are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, they are filled with gutta-percha, a rubber-like material, to seal them and prevent reinfection.
✅ In some cases, a temporary filling may be placed to protect the tooth until a permanent restoration (such as a dental crown) can be placed.
✅ After the root canal treatment is completed, a dental restoration, such as a crown or filling, is placed on the tooth to restore its strength, functionality, and appearance.
Root canal treatment is typically performed over one or more visits, depending on the complexity of the case. Patients may experience some minor discomfort or sensitivity after the treatment, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment can last a lifetime.
