Root canal procedure

Root canal procedure clears infection from inside your tooth’s pulp, often resulting from deep cavities or cracks. If you notice pain, swelling or a boil on your gums, it could be time to see your dentist. Root canals are common and help save your natural tooth.

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a procedure that takes out infected pulp from the inside of your tooth. To save your tooth and stop more damage, your dentist cleans and plugs the canals. If bacteria get to the pulp and create discomfort or swelling, you might need a root canal. If you have a serious cavity or break a tooth, this can happen. Root canals happen a lot. You might not need one if you take care of your teeth.

How do I know if I need this procedure?

You might not notice an infected tooth at first, but root canal symptoms might include:

• A pimple or boil that may be leaking pus on your gums
• A swollen jaw from a trapped infection
• Darkened tooth colour
• Loose tooth from infection weakening nearby bone
• Pain that spreads to your jaw, face or nearby teeth
• discomfort when the tooth is touched or chewed
• Tender or swollen gums

If you have root canal pain, don’t wait. Treatment can relieve pain, save your tooth and prevent the infection from spreading. Your dentist can help you decide if it’s the right option for you.

Procedure Details

How should I prepare for root canal treatment?

Your dentist will look at your tooth with X-rays and other testing before giving you treatment to make sure you have an infection. They might:

• Ask if it hurts when you bite down.
• Check for swelling in your gums or bone.
• Gently tap your tooth or apply hot/cold to check sensitivity.
• Use an electric pulp test (EPT) to see if the pulp is alive.

How long does it take to do a root canal?

Time: Mostly a root canal procedure takes about 60 to 90 minutes. Some may require more than one visit. However, each patient may have different needs; make sure to speak with your dentist to get a clear understanding.

What happens during a root canal procedure?

Your dentist or endodontist will:

1. Numb the area with anaesthesia (if you’re nervous, you may get medication to help you relax, and you might be drowsy after).
2. Place cotton or a dental dam to keep the area clean and dry during the procedure.
3. Create a small hole in your tooth’s crown to reach the pulp.
4. Remove the infected pulp using tiny tools.
5. Clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth.
6. Fill the space with a rubbery dental material (gutta-percha).
7. Seal the tooth with a temporary filling.
8. Place a permanent crown (usually at a later visit) to protect your tooth and restore your bite.

What happens after root canal treatment?

You’ll rest briefly in the office after your procedure. You’ll likely have two more appointments: one to prepare for your crown and one to place it. After your final appointment, your tooth will be fully restored, and you should be free of any pain or discomfort. That being said, if you experience any prolonged pain or discomfort, be sure to contact your dentist immediately.

What is Root Canal Crown?

A dental crown (root canal crown) is often recommended after a root canal to protect and restore the tooth, as the root canal procedure can make the tooth fragile and prone to fracture. The crown acts as a “helmet”, covering the tooth to provide strength, restore its ability to chew , and prevent further damage or infections.

Risks and Benefits

What are the benefits of root canal treatment?

Most root canals are successful and can last for many years, often a lifetime. They can remove infection, prevent the infection from spreading or damaging your jawbone, and save your natural tooth.

What are the risks or complications of this procedure?

Sometimes, root canals don’t work if the damage is too severe. If that happens, your provider may retreat the tooth with another root canal. Remove the tooth and replace it with an implant or bridge.

Recovery and Beyond

How long does root canal recovery take?

Most people recover in less than a week. You might have some lingering sensitivity, but you shouldn’t have pain that lasts longer than that. If you do, call your provider.

How can I support healing?

Good care helps with root canal recovery. These simple steps can support your healing and help you avoid complications:

• Avoid smoking; it can slow healing.
• Brush after meals and floss once a day.
• Don’t chew on the treated tooth until your permanent crown is placed.
• Eat soft foods for a few days, like mashed potatoes, yoghurt, smoothies or well-cooked pasta.
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash to keep germs away.

A note from Smilepoint Dental Centre an RCT Dental

Do you have a toothache that won’t go away or pain when you drink something hot or cold? It’s possible that you have an infected tooth. You need to go to the dentist since these infections won’t go away on their own. If you require a root canal, your doctor will help you through the treatment so you know what to expect. Brush your teeth after every meal, floss every day, and see the dentist regularly to avoid needing root canals in the future.

Dentistry plays an important role in oral health. Smilepoint Dental Centre experts can design a personalised plan that will keep you smiling for the long haul.

Questions people ask about RCT

References

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2. Gasner NS, Brizuela M. Endodontic Materials Used To Fill Root Canals. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan. Last Accessed 03/03/2026.
3. Merck Manual. Cavities (Dental Caries). Last reviewed 11/2024. Accessed 03/03/2026.
4. National Health Service (UK). Root Canal Treatment. Last reviewed 1/27/2022. Accessed 03/03/2026.
5. Sanders JL, Houck RC. Dental Abscess, 2023, Feb. 20. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan. Accessed 03/03/2026.