Root canal treatment may be recommended when the nerve or pulp inside a tooth becomes inflamed or infected. This can happen because of deep decay, a crack, trauma, a large filling, or repeated dental work on the same tooth.
Not every toothache means you need a root canal, but some symptoms should be checked promptly by a dentist.
What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to clean, disinfect and seal the inside of a tooth when the pulp has become inflamed or infected.
The goal is to save the natural tooth where possible, reduce infection and allow the tooth to be restored so it can continue functioning.
Common signs you might need a root canal
You should book a dental assessment if you notice:
- Toothache that is severe, constant or keeps returning
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Swelling around the gum or face
- A small pimple or lump on the gum near the tooth
- Darkening or discolouration of one tooth
- A cracked, broken or heavily filled tooth that becomes painful
- Pain that wakes you at night
Can you need a root canal without pain?
Yes. Sometimes the nerve inside a tooth can become infected or die without causing strong pain. A dentist may notice signs during an examination or on an X-ray.
This is why regular check-ups are helpful, especially if you have large fillings, old dental work or a tooth that has changed colour.
What happens if an infected tooth is not treated?
If the infection is not treated, it may spread around the root of the tooth and surrounding bone. This can lead to swelling, pain, abscess formation and a higher chance that the tooth may need to be removed.
If you have facial swelling, difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing, swelling near the eye, fever, or feel very unwell, seek urgent medical care immediately.
What does the root canal procedure involve?
The exact steps depend on the tooth and situation, but root canal treatment commonly involves:
- Assessing the tooth and taking X-rays if needed
- Numbing the area with local anaesthetic
- Accessing the inside of the tooth
- Cleaning and shaping the root canals
- Disinfecting the canals
- Sealing the tooth internally
- Restoring the tooth with a filling or crown where needed
Will the tooth need a crown after root canal treatment?
Some root-filled teeth need a crown, especially back teeth or teeth that are heavily filled, cracked or weakened. A crown can help protect the remaining tooth structure from further fracture.
Your dentist will explain whether a filling or crown may be suitable after assessing the tooth.
Is extraction the only alternative?
Sometimes a tooth can be saved with root canal treatment, but sometimes extraction is the more suitable option if the tooth is too badly cracked, broken or unsupported.
The dentist will discuss the likely benefits, limitations and costs of each option before you decide.
Book a root canal assessment in Lara
If you have severe toothache, lingering sensitivity, swelling, pain when biting, or a painful broken tooth, Lara Dental Prime can assess the tooth and explain suitable options.
Learn more about root canal treatment in Lara, emergency dental care, or call 03 5282 2222.