To understand root canal treatment, it helps to know about the anatomy of the tooth.

Inside the tooth under the white Enamel and a hard layer called the Dentin, is a soft tissue called the Pulp. The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue, creating the surrounding hard tissues of the tooth during it’s development.

The pulp extends from the crown of the tooth to the tip of the roots, where it connects to the tissues surrounding the root. The pulp is important during a tooth’s growth and development. However once a tooth is fully mature it can survive without the pulp, because the tooth continues to be held in the bone by the tissues surrounding it.
‍

Endodontics treatment is necessary when the dental pulp becomes inflamed or infected as a result of deep tooth decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or a crack, chip, or other injury to the tooth.

In addition, an injury to a tooth may cause pulp damage even if the tooth has no visible chips or cracks. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess. Most teeth can be saved by endodontic treatment.

Often, tooth extraction is unnecessary unless the following conditions are present:
• Roots are severely fractured.
• The tooth does not have adequate bone support.
• The tooth cannot be restored to function after the root treatment.
• Root canals are not accessible.
‍

You may need an endodontics treatment if you experience the following:
• A lot of tooth discomfort or pain
• Prolonged or continuous tooth sensitivity to hot and cold
• Gum tenderness to the touch especially when chewing
• Swelling
• Tooth discolouration
• Tenderness in the lymph nodes, jaw bone, and gingival tissues

If a root canal procedure is not performed, an abscess (infected pus pocket) could form at the tip of the tooth root that can be painful. Even if there is no pain, the bone holding the tooth in the jaw could be damaged.
‍

During a root canal treatment, the inflamed or infected pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected. It is then filled and sealed with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha.

Then the tooth is restored with a crown or filling for protection. After restoration, the tooth continues to function like any other tooth. In Klinik Pergigian Fauziah, the procedure can be completed in 2 to 3 appointments depending on the condition of your tooth and your personal circumstances.

Saving a natural tooth has many advantages. You get to chew efficiently, maintain the natural look, and preserve the normal biting force and sensation. Root canal treatment helps maintain your natural smile, continue eating the food you love and limits the need for ongoing dental works.

With proper care, most teeth that have had root canal treatment can last as long as other natural teeth and often for a lifetime.
‍

Many root canal procedures are performed to relieve the pain of toothaches caused by pulp inflammation or infection. With modern techniques and anaesthetics, most patients report that they are comfortable during the procedure.

For the first few days after treatment, your tooth may feel sensitive especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. This discomfort can be relieved with over-the-counter or prescription pain relief medications which may be given to you so you will be comfortable. Follow your dentist’s instructions carefully.

Your tooth may continue to feel slightly different from your other teeth for some time after the root canal treatment is completed. This discomfort will disappear as the surrounding bone heals. However if you have severe pain or pressure that lasts more than a few days, call our clinic for us to attend to you.