Relieve Pain and Restore Your Tooth With a Root Canal

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure that treats infection or inflammation inside a tooth. Each tooth contains a soft tissue called the pulp, which houses nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes damaged — usually from deep decay, a crack, or trauma — it can become infected, causing pain, swelling, and sensitivity.

During a root canal, your dentist removes the infected or inflamed pulp, carefully cleans and shapes the inside of the tooth's root canals, and then fills and seals them to prevent reinfection. The goal is to save the natural tooth and relieve pain, avoiding the need for extraction.

Is a Root Canal Right for You?

You may need a root canal if you experience:

• Persistent or severe toothache, especially when chewing or applying pressure
• Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the source is removed
• Darkening or discolouration of a tooth
• Swelling, tenderness, or a pimple-like bump on the gum near a tooth
• Deep decay or a large filling that has compromised the tooth's nerve

How It Works

1. 1
   Diagnosis & Assessment

   Your dentist examines the tooth, takes X-rays to assess the extent of infection, and determines whether root canal treatment is the best option.

2. 2
   Numbing & Access

   Local anaesthetic is applied to ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure. A small opening is made in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber.

3. 3
   Cleaning & Shaping

   The infected or inflamed pulp tissue is carefully removed. The root canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected using specialised instruments.

4. 4
   Filling & Sealing

   The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to prevent reinfection. A temporary or permanent filling is placed on top.

5. 5
   Restoration

   In most cases, a dental crown is recommended to protect and strengthen the treated tooth. This is usually done at a follow-up appointment.

6. 6
   Follow-Up

   Your dentist monitors the tooth's healing at a follow-up visit to ensure the treatment has been successful and the infection has resolved.