Which symptoms may mean you need a root canal?
The following symptoms may indicate that the nerve of the tooth is affected. Sometimes the problem is spotted on an X-ray without any symptoms; the final decision is made after an examination and X-rays.
- Pain that starts on its own, throbs or gets worse at night
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Swelling of the gum or a pimple-like discharge
- Darkening of the tooth
What will you feel during treatment?
Root canal treatment is carried out under local anaesthetic, and in most cases you feel no significant pain during the procedure. The treatment is usually aimed at relieving the pain that brought you in.
The tooth may be slightly sensitive for a few days afterwards; this usually eases quickly. We clean and fill the canals using high-quality, certified materials and careful craftsmanship.
How is the tooth protected after a root canal?
A tooth that has had root canal treatment can become more fragile, depending on how much tooth structure has been lost. Where the loss is small, a permanent filling is enough; where it is greater, a crown may be recommended to protect the tooth.
Until the permanent filling or crown is in place, it is advisable not to bite very hard foods with the treated tooth. A tooth that has been properly restored and is well looked after can be used for many years; healing is monitored with follow-up X-rays.
If toothache starts at night
Our practice is open 24 hours from Monday to Saturday. If you are in severe pain, it is advisable to let us know by phone or WhatsApp before you come.
At the first visit, the source of the pain is identified and the priority is relieving your pain. If the root canal treatment needs to be completed, the next sessions are scheduled at a time that suits you.
How is root canal treatment carried out?
- Examination and X-rayThe source of the pain and the root structure are assessed, and the treatment plan is explained to you.
- Anaesthetic and isolationThe area is numbed and the tooth is kept clean and dry during the procedure.
- Cleaning the canalsThe inflamed nerve tissue is removed, and the canals are shaped and disinfected.
- Filling the canalsThe cleaned canals are sealed with a suitable filling material.
- Restoring the toothThe upper part of the tooth is restored with a filling or, if needed, a crown.
Frequently asked questions
How many sessions does a root canal take?
In most cases it is completed in one or two sessions. Teeth with widespread infection or complex canal anatomy may need an additional session.
Is root canal treatment painful?
Because the procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, in most cases you feel no significant pain during treatment. There may be mild sensitivity for a few days afterwards.
How long does pain last after a root canal?
Mild sensitivity usually eases and passes within a few days. If the pain gets worse, swelling develops or it lasts more than a few days, you should contact your dentist.
Can the tooth be extracted instead of having a root canal?
Extraction is an option, but in most cases keeping your own tooth is the priority. The gap left by an extracted tooth may need to be filled with an implant or a bridge; the options are explained to you at the examination.
