Root canal treatment (Endodontic therapy)

Root canal treatment is performed to save and repair a severely broken or infected tooth.

Dental X-ray showing a molar with a cavity, a tooth with a crown, and adjacent teeth.
Dental X-ray showing three molar teeth, with a root canal treatment visible on the first molar.

Some signs and symptoms of endodontic (nerve) problems are:

  • Sever tooth ache

  • Tenderness when chewing and or biting.

  • Tenderness in the gums

  • Prolonged sensitivity to hot drinks or food

  • Tooth discoloration

Some signs and symptoms of endodontic (nerve) problems are:

  • Sever tooth ache

  • Tenderness when chewing and or biting.

  • Tenderness in the gums

  • Prolonged sensitivity to hot drinks or food

  • Tooth discoloration

The procedure involves removing the pulp (the tissue inside the tooth), cleaning and disinfecting root canals and then filling and sealing it.

some common causes that disturb the pulp are:

  • A deep cavity

  • A cracked tooth

  • Repeated dental treatment

  • Trauma

Root canal treatment will help:

  • Preserve your appearance by retaining the affected tooth

  • Allow chewing with comfort

  • Maintain neighboring teeth in their positions

Most teeth can be saved by root canal treatment; however, tooth extraction may be necessary if:

  • Roots are fractured

  • The root does not have adequate bone support

  • The tooth cannot be restored

  • Root canals are calcified and are not accessible