Root canal treatment is usually quoted by anyone who has had the procedure as the most painful dental treatment they have ever had to endure. It is true that this process is never pain-free but the worst pain is usually that which sends someone to their dentist in the first place. Root canal is only necessary if there is an infection in the tooth which is so well-established that there is no option but to remove the nerves and the dental pulp within the tooth. This is often done in several different visits as it is sometimes necessary to treat the underlying infection first. This is done with antibiotics in the first instance, either by mouth or by packing the cavity with a slow release compound.

When the infection has subsided or been completely treated, the dentist will then have to drill out the contents of the tooth. This will be done under local anaesthesia or, if the patient is very nervous or is dental phobic, it can be done under a general anaesthetic. The tooth is packed with gutta percha or a euthymol cement and the treatment will be complete. The thing to remember with root canal treatment is that although it is sometimes painful and can involve a large number of visits to the dentist, when it is over the tooth will be dead, with no feeling left in it so the problem cannot recur in that tooth. Most dentists will take the opportunity to thoroughly check the remaining teeth and if it is likely that the need for root canal will recur elsewhere in the mouth, the dentist may recommend some more extensive treatment, such as implants.

Routine dental check-ups minimise the likelihood of root canal procedures occurring, as the infection which makes the treatment necessary should not get a hold in a well-kept mouth. Preventative fillings and other procedures can mean that most people will never need a root canal and this is how dentists like it – prevention being always much better than cure when it comes to major work such as this.

If your dentist suggests a root canal and you feel that this is perhaps an overzealous solution, ask for a second opinion. No dentist will object, as they quite realise that serious work like this should not be embarked upon lightly.

A root canal surgery generally involves a complete removal of teeth nerves and dental pulp. This usually saves the damaged tooth, and eliminates the pain. However there is still too many needles root canal treatment, because of bad diagnoseses. When you feel a treatment is necessary, first consult with your trusted dentist. Read more about root canal treatment here.