Root canal treatment, also referred to as root canal therapy or endodontic therapy, is used to save an infected or damaged tooth and avoid having it removed. A root canal becomes necessary when a neglected cavity reaches all the way to the pulp at the center of the tooth, causing the pulp to become infected. Regular cleanings and checkups detect and prevent problems early on. Trauma can also cause deep damage to the nerve of a tooth. Once this occurs, the pulp becomes infected and begins to eat away at the surrounding bone (this is called an abscess). By the time the pulp is infected it must be treated and cannot heal on its own. It can even weaken the entire immune system, making it very dangerous and painful. Symptoms of infected pulp may include sensitivity to hot/cold or sweets, pain, swelling, pain with biting or pressure, and a bad taste in the mouth. Sometimes, however, there are no symptoms, and you are unaware of any problem until a checkup. A root canal is performed to clean out the infected tooth pulp and disinfect the canals of the tooth. The only other treatment would be to extract the tooth. Once the infection is resolved, the canal(s) is filled to prevent any further infection. Crowns are usually recommended to cover and restore a tooth after root canal therapy. What Should I Expect After Root Canal Treatment? After a root canal treatment, it's normal to experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity in the treated area for a few days as your body begins to heal. This is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers, and most patients are able to return to normal activities the next day. It's important to avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your dentist has placed a final crown or restoration to protect it fully. In the days following the procedure, you may notice some tenderness in your jaw from keeping your mouth open during the appointment—this will subside on its own. Be sure to follow any care instructions provided by your dentist, and attend any recommended follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and long-term success of the root canal.
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