Few dental words cause as much fear as "root canal". Most of the fear comes from stories, not from what the treatment is like today.
What it is
Inside each tooth is soft tissue called the pulp. If decay, a crack or an injury lets bacteria reach it, the pulp can become infected and painful. Root canal treatment cleans out the infected pulp, disinfects the space inside, and seals it so the tooth can stay in your mouth.
Myth: it is very painful
With local anaesthetic, most people say it feels similar to having a filling. The pain usually comes from the infection, not from the treatment. Some soreness for a few days afterwards is common.
Myth: it is better to pull the tooth
Keeping your natural tooth is often the better choice if it can be saved. Replacing a missing tooth with a bridge or implant has its own cost and steps. Your dentist can explain both options for your tooth.
Myth: it makes you ill
This old claim has no good evidence behind it. Treating an infected tooth removes a source of infection.
Fact: the tooth usually needs a crown afterwards
A tooth that has had root canal treatment can be more fragile, so it is often protected with a filling or a crown.
Fact: it sometimes takes more than one visit
That depends on the tooth and how infected it is. Some teeth with complex roots are treated by an endodontist, a dentist with special training in this.
Signs you may need one
- Lasting pain with hot or cold, or when biting.
- A darkened tooth.
- A pimple-like bump on the gum, or swelling.
Only an examination can say for sure. Find an endodontist or any verified dentist.