What Is a Root Canal? Everything You Need to Know

Tooth pain can be more than just uncomfortable—it can affect your eating, sleeping, and daily life. When the inner part of a tooth becomes infected or damaged, a root canal treatment is often the best way to save the tooth and relieve pain.

In this guide, we explain what a root canal is, why it’s needed, how the procedure works, and what to expect before and after treatment.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat infection or damage inside a tooth. The inside of the tooth contains soft tissue called pulp, which includes nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue.

When this pulp becomes infected due to decay, cracks, trauma, or repeated dental procedures, a root canal is required to remove the infection and save the natural tooth.

Why Is Root Canal Treatment Needed?

Root canal treatment is recommended when bacteria reach the tooth pulp, causing infection or inflammation. Common reasons include:

• Deep tooth decay
• Cracked or chipped teeth
• Repeated dental work on the same tooth
• Injury or trauma to the tooth
• Gum disease reaching the tooth root

Without treatment, the infection can spread, leading to severe pain, abscess formation, and even tooth loss.

Common Symptoms That Indicate You May Need a Root Canal

Not all infected teeth cause pain, but common signs include:

• Persistent or severe toothache
• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lasts
• Pain while chewing or biting
• Swollen or tender gums
• Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
• Pimples or abscesses on the gums

If you experience any of these symptoms, timely dental evaluation is essential.

How Does a Root Canal Work?

Root canal treatment is usually completed in one or two visits and involves the following steps:

1. Examination and X-ray

Your dentist examines the tooth and takes X-rays to assess the extent of infection.

2. Local Anesthesia

The area is numbed to ensure a pain-free procedure.

3. Removal of Infected Pulp

The dentist creates a small opening in the tooth and removes the infected pulp.

4. Cleaning and Shaping

The root canals are cleaned, disinfected, and shaped.

5. Filling and Sealing

The canals are filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to prevent reinfection.

6. Crown Placement (If Needed)

A dental crown is often placed to restore strength and function.

Is Root Canal Treatment Painful?

Modern root canal treatments are virtually painless thanks to advanced techniques and anesthesia. In fact, most patients feel relief from pain after the procedure, not during it.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

• Saves your natural tooth
• Relieves pain and discomfort
• Prevents infection from spreading
• Restores chewing and biting ability
• Maintains natural smile and jaw alignment

How Long Does a Root Canal Last?

With proper care and a crown, a root-canal-treated tooth can last many years or even a lifetime.

Aftercare Tips Following a Root Canal

• Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until fully restored
• Maintain good oral hygiene
• Attend follow-up dental visits
• Get a crown if recommended
• Avoid hard or sticky foods

Also Read – Root Canal Recovery – Tips for a Faster Healing Process

Root Canal vs Tooth Extraction

While extraction removes the tooth entirely, a root canal allows you to keep your natural tooth. Dentists prefer saving the tooth whenever possible, as it maintains proper bite and oral health.

Who Performs Root Canal Treatment?

Root canals are performed by general dentists or endodontists, specialists trained in treating tooth pulp and root issues.

Final Thoughts

A root canal is a safe, effective, and routine procedure that can save your tooth and eliminate pain. If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity or persistent pain, early diagnosis can prevent complications and protect your smile.