Root canal treatment are the procedures used to treat infections in the centre of teeth. Root canal treatment (RCT) isn’t painful and can save a tooth from being extracted.

Why  are RCT’s needed?

An Infection in the middle of a tooth is caused by bacteria (that normally live in the mouth) getting into a tooth. Usually through a deep cavity. 

Causes for infection:

• Deep decay
• Broken fillings
• Trauma such as a fall or accident

RCT treatment is required when dental X-rays show that the teeth centre has been damaged by a bacterial infection.

The root centre ‘pulp’ will die if it’s been infected by bacteria.

The symptoms of a infection include:

• Pain when eating/drinking hot or cold food and drink
• Pain when biting or chewing
• Loose tooth

As the infection gets worse you might also feel these symptoms: 

• Swelling of the gums
• Pus in the mouth
• Swelling
• Tooth discolouring

A long established infection might not be treatable with an RCT, therefore you should also act as soon as possible. 

How is a RCT root canal treatment is done?

To treat an infected tooth the bacteria needs to be removed. 

Either by:

• Removing the bacteria from the tooth root (RCT)
• Removing the tooth (extraction)

But it’s recommended to keep your tooth, so you have as many of your natural teeth as possible.

After the bacteria have been removed, the root canal (centre) is filled and the tooth sealed with a crown or filling. 

In most instances the inflammation caused by the infection will heal naturally.

Before treatment begins you’ll usually be given a local anaesthetic, making the procedure painless.

RCT treatment are usually very successful. 9 out of 10 teeth will survive for up to 10 years after an RCT treatment. 

RCT post care 

RCT treatment are usually carried out over one or two appointments. You should avoid biting hard foods until you have completed your treatment. 

After an RCT treatment, your restored tooth should no longer be painful, but might feel sensitive for a couple days.