Safely Save and Preserve a Natural Tooth
Root canal treatment (also called endodontic therapy) is a clinical procedure used to treat a tooth that has become infected or damaged internally. By removing the infected tissue from inside the tooth and sealing the space, root canal treatment can relieve pain and help preserve your natural tooth rather than resorting to extraction.
Thanks to advancements in modern dental technology, root canal treatment now has a significantly higher success rate than in the past and is designed to be comfortable and predictable for most patients.
Why Root Canal Treatment May Be Recommended
Your dentist may recommend root canal treatment when:
- There is deep decay reaching the tooth pulp
- A tooth is infected or abscessed
- The nerve or blood supply inside a tooth is inflamed or dying
- There is persistent pain, sensitivity or swelling around a tooth
Preserving your natural tooth helps maintain chewing function and jaw structure and can prevent additional dental issues.
Modern Advances and Success Rates
Modern root canal procedures benefit from improved imaging, precision instruments and materials that have transformed the treatment experience and outcomes. These include:
- Digital imaging and 3D diagnostics for more precise treatment planning
- Enhanced magnification and specialised tools for thorough cleaning
- Better sealing materials to reduce reinfection risk
- Techniques that help preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible
As a result, root canal treatment has high success rates, with many studies reporting over 95% success in appropriately treated cases over the medium term, and strong long-term survival with good care.
This means most treated teeth remain functional and free of symptoms for many years after treatment.
The Treatment Process
1. Consultation and Assessment
Your dentist will examine the affected tooth, take diagnostic images (such as digital X-rays), review your symptoms and explain your treatment options.
2. Local Anaesthetic and Comfort
Root canal therapy is performed with local anaesthetic to ensure the area is numb so you remain comfortable. With contemporary anaesthetic techniques and equipment, treatment is generally pain-free, and many patients find the procedure no more uncomfortable than having a filling placed.
3. Cleaning and Shaping the Canals
Once anaesthetised, the dentist accesses the inside of the tooth, carefully removes the infected or damaged pulp, and cleans and shapes the root canals.
4. Sealing and Restoration
After cleaning, the canals are sealed with a biocompatible material. In most cases, a crown is recommended afterward to protect and strengthen the tooth.
Your dentist will talk you through the steps and what to expect at each stage.
Comfort and Recovery
Most patients tolerate root canal treatment well. Local anaesthesia ensures the procedure itself is comfortable. Mild sensitivity may occur afterward, and your dentist will discuss appropriate pain management and aftercare.
Good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups help support the long-term health of your treated tooth.
Call Now or Book an Appointment
If you think you might need root canal treatment, or you have tooth pain or sensitivity that concerns you, call us today to book a consultation!
Frequently Asked Questions
Modern root canal treatment is designed to be comfortable. With local anaesthetic, the treated area is numb and the procedure generally feels no more uncomfortable than a routine filling. Mild sensitivity afterward is possible but usually temporary.
Thanks to advances in technology and techniques, success rates for root canal therapy are high, with many studies reporting success in over 95% of cases when treatment is performed appropriately.
With proper care (including good oral hygiene, regular dental reviews and appropriate final restoration like a crown) many root canal-treated teeth remain functional for many years.
A crown helps protect and strengthen the tooth following root canal treatment, reducing the risk of fracture and supporting long-term function.
If you experience significant or returning discomfort after treatment, contact the practice so your dentist can review your situation and check for any issues that may need attention.
