What actually happens during a root canal?

Few dental treatments have a reputation quite like the root canal. In reality, with local anaesthetic, most people find it feels much like having a filling — just a little longer. Understanding what happens can take a lot of the worry away.

Why it’s needed

Inside each tooth is the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When deep decay, a crack or an injury allows bacteria to reach the pulp, it can become inflamed or infected. Root canal treatment removes the affected pulp so the tooth itself can be kept.

Step by step

• Numbing: local anaesthetic is used so the area is comfortable.
• Access: a small opening is made in the top of the tooth.
• Cleaning: the pulp is removed and the canals are carefully cleaned and shaped.
• Sealing: the canals are filled and sealed to prevent bacteria from returning.
• Restoring: the tooth is rebuilt, often with a crown to protect it.

Depending on the tooth and the extent of infection, this may happen in one visit or over two or more.

Afterwards

Mild tenderness for a few days is common and usually settles with simple pain relief, as advised by your dentist. Back teeth often receive a crown afterwards, because root-treated teeth can be more prone to cracking.

This article is general information and isn’t a substitute for advice from a dentist who has examined you. Treatment suitability is determined after an in-person dental consultation.