A root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure used to
treat a tooth that has a damaged or infected pulp (the innermost part of the tooth). The
pulp contains nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected
or damaged, it can cause significant pain and other dental problems.
1. Diagnosis:
The dentist will examine the tooth and may use X-rays to evaluate the extent of the damage
and determine if treatment is needed. Additional tests such as electric pulp testing and
thermal tests may be needed to further establish the status of the pulp.
2. Anaesthesia:
Local anaesthesia is administered to numb the affected tooth and the surrounding area. This
is important so that the patient is comfortable and does not feel pain during the procedure.
3. Isolation:
The dentist places a rubber dam around the tooth to keep it dry and free from saliva during
the procedure. Besides that, this can protect the surrounding area from the effects of
chemical irrigants used during the procedure
4. Access Cavity:
The dentist creates a small opening in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber
5. Pulp Removal – Cleaning & Shaping
The pulp is removed from the tooth's root canals using specialized instruments. The canals
are then cleaned and shaped to prepare them for filling. The dentist uses small files to clean and shape the root canals – removing any remaining pulp, debris and bacteria. This step is
crucial to prevent future infection.
6. Obturation:
Once the canals are cleaned and shaped, they are filled with a biocompatible material
known as gutta-percha to seal the space and prevent re-entry of bacteria.
7. Sealing:
The access opening in the crown is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling. In some
cases, a dental crown may be recommended to provide additional strength and protection
to the treated tooth.
8. Follow-up:
After the root canal treatment, the patient may need to return for a follow-up visit to ensure
that the tooth is healing properly.
Figure 1 illustrates the overall procedure of root canal treatment.
Figure 1. Illustration showing the steps of root canal treatment
Source : https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/root-canal-treatment
Root canal treatment is highly successful and is often the best way to save a tooth that
would otherwise need to be extracted. It helps relieve pain, eliminate infection and preserve
the natural tooth structure.