Root canal treatment, or endodontic therapy, is one of the most vital and common procedures in dentistry, essential for saving teeth that would otherwise need extraction. The thought of having a root canal can make many patients feel anxious, but the truth is that with modern techniques and anaesthetics, it is a much calmer procedure and, crucially, the definitive solution for the intense toothache caused by pulp infection or inflammation.In this complete guide, you will understand what root canal treatment is, when it is needed, the step-by-step procedure, and the necessary care to ensure the treatment’s success and the longevity of your smile.
What is the Dental Pulp and Why Does It Need Treatment?
To understand root canal treatment, it is fundamental to know the tooth’s anatomy.
The innermost part of the tooth, beneath the enamel and dentine, is the dental pulp (also known as the “tooth nerve”). The pulp is a soft tissue composed of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, which extends from the crown (the visible part) to the root tip. Find out more by clicking here
When Does the Pulp Become Compromised?
The pulp is protected by the hard layers of the tooth. However, when this protection is breached, the pulp can become damaged or infected. The main causes leading to the need for a root canal treatment are:
- Deep Decay (Caries): The most common cause. If a cavity is left untreated, it advances through the dentine until it reaches the pulp, causing inflammation (pulpitis) and, subsequently, infection.
- Dental Trauma: Knocks or accidents that cause tooth fractures with pulp exposure or lead to internal necrosis (death).
- Broken or Cracked Teeth: Fissures that allow bacteria to enter.
- Extreme Wear and Tear: Repetitive dental procedures or severe wear can irritate the pulp over time.
When the pulp is infected or dead, it cannot heal itself. If it is not removed, the infection can spread to the jawbone, forming a dental abscess, which can cause severe pain, swelling, and, in rare cases, more serious health issues.
The Step-by-Step Root Canal Procedure (Endodontics)
The endodontic procedure aims to remove the diseased tissue, clean and disinfect the tooth’s inner space, and seal it to prevent future infections. The treatment is usually performed by an endodontist (a specialist in root canals) and, thanks to local anaesthesia, it is a virtually pain-free process.
The treatment is divided into the following essential stages:
Final Restoration: This is the crucial stage for protecting the treated tooth. As the tooth may have lost significant structure due to decay or the access opening, it becomes more fragile. A definitive filling or, often, a dental crown is placed over the tooth to restore its shape, function, and strength.
Diagnosis and Planning: The dentist performs a clinical exam and takes X-rays to confirm the need for treatment, assess the extent of the infection, and plan the procedure.
Anaesthesia and Isolation: Local anaesthesia is administered to ensure the patient feels no pain. A rubber dam is then placed around the tooth to keep it clean and isolated from bacteria in the saliva.
Access Opening: A small opening is created in the tooth’s crown (the visible part) to access the pulp chamber and the root canals.
Removal and Cleaning: The infected pulp tissue, blood vessels, and nerves are removed using small files (manual or, more commonly, rotary/reciprocating). The canal is widened, cleaned, and thoroughly disinfected, ensuring the elimination of bacteria.
Filling (Obturation): After cleaning, the canals are filled with an inert material, usually gutta-percha (a type of natural rubber), sealed with a dental cement. This filling seals the canal to prevent recontamination.
All our procedures adhere to the strict guidelines set by the General Dental Council (GDC).
Book your consultation with our Birmingham Endodontist today! Smile!