Endodontic Treatment

Endodontic treatment, also known as root canal treatment, is a dental procedure aimed at removing inflamed, diseased or injured soft tissue and/or bacteria inside the root canal of a tooth. Root canal treatment is usually successful, with 9/10 cases surviving for up to 10 years.

Endodontic treatment (root canal treatment) is a dental procedure aimed at removing inflamed, diseased or injured soft tissue and/or bacteria inside the root canal of a tooth. Teeth can become infected or inflamed if they suffer trauma, have significant decay or large restorations such as a big filling or a crown. Untreated teeth can cause pain, infections such as abscesses, or in severe cases, infection spreading to the surrounding bone. If root canal treatment is not performed, the tooth may have to be removed.

What does a root canal treatment involve?

First, the area of infection and inflammation must be removed. Once the bacteria is destroyed, the canal is cleaned and filled. Most root canal treatments are performed over the course of two appointments, however it may be completed in one visit if suitable. Following the root canal treatment, the tooth is sealed again either with a filling or a crown, depending on the location and state of the tooth. The treatment overall should be painless and no more unpleasant than having a filling. Root canal treatment is usually successful, with 9/10 cases surviving for up to 10 years.