Root Canals

A root canal procedure is a dental treatment for the soft tissue inside a tooth, known as the pulp. The pulp can become inflamed or infected when decay reaches deep into the tooth, when a tooth is cracked, or after repeated dental work on the same tooth. The procedure aims to remove the damaged tissue, clean inside the tooth, and seal it so it can be kept and used.

What Root Canals involves

A dentist will first check the tooth and take an X-ray to see the shape of the roots and the extent of the problem. The treatment usually takes place over one or more visits, and the tooth is often protected afterwards with a filling or a crown, depending on how much of the tooth remains.

Signs of Root Canals

• Persistent tooth pain, especially with hot or cold foods
• Pain when biting or touching the tooth
• Swelling or tenderness in the gum near the tooth
• A tooth that has darkened, or a small bump on the gum

What to do right away for Root Canals

• Call for dental help promptly if pain or swelling is present
• Avoid biting hard on the affected tooth
• Keep the area clean with gentle brushing and rinsing
• Note any fever, swelling, or change in pain to tell the dentist

How a dentist may help with Root Canals

• Examine the tooth and take X-rays
• Remove the damaged pulp tissue and clean inside the roots
• Fill and seal the inside of the tooth
• Protect the tooth afterwards, often with a filling or a crown

When to seek urgent care for Root Canals

Seek urgent care if swelling spreads to the face or neck, you have trouble swallowing or opening your mouth, or you have a fever with tooth pain.

General information on this page is not medical advice. A dentist who examines you can give advice for your situation.

Related emergency dental help

• Severe Toothache
• Tooth Abscess
• Crowns And Bridges

Emergency Dental Services — back to the full list. Contact Emergency Dentist for general enquiries, or call for urgent help.

Frequently asked questions about Root Canals

Does a root canal procedure remove the whole tooth?

No. The procedure treats the inside of the tooth so the outer tooth can usually be kept.

Why might a tooth need a crown after a root canal procedure?

A tooth that has had this treatment can be more fragile. A crown can help protect it, depending on how much tooth remains.

Is swelling after a root canal procedure normal?

Some soreness can occur, but spreading swelling, fever, or worsening pain should be reported to a dentist promptly.