- A root canal treatment is a dental procedure that is done to treat a tooth that has become infected or decayed, usually due to a deep cavity or injury to the tooth.
- During a root canal treatment, the dentist or endodontist will remove the infected or damaged pulp tissue from the inside of the tooth, clean out the root canals, and seal them with a filling material.
- The procedure can usually be completed in one or two appointments, depending on the severity of the infection and the complexity of the tooth’s root structure.
- While root canal treatments have a reputation for being painful, modern techniques and anesthetics have made the procedure relatively painless for most patients. After the treatment, you may experience some mild discomfort, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
- After a root canal treatment, you will need to take good care of the treated tooth to ensure its long-term success. This may include avoiding hard or crunchy foods, practicing good oral hygiene, and scheduling regular check-ups with your dentist or endodontist to monitor the tooth’s health.