A root canal treatment is the procedure completed when the dental pulp or dental nerve affected by advanced cavities or any exposure to the pulp that causes pain. During this treatment infection is removed, tooth canals are thoroughly cleaned and sealed with special durable material.

When the dentist indicates that infected tooth can be saved, a root canal treatment should be carried out since this prevents the infection from progressing and the pain disappears.

Root canal procedure is indicated when:

• Sharp tooth pain
• Dental fractures 
• Extensive cavities
• Inflammation of the gums and / or dental pulp
• Oral abscesses

All this will be evaluated by an endodontist (a dentist that specialises in root canal treatments) or your regular dentist who has extensive experience with these procedures through a clinical and radiographic examination.

Yes, after a root canal procedure the dentist may prescribe medications to reduce discomfort and continue to control the infection.

In addition, the dentist will indicate how to restore the rest of the tooth. It is highly recommended to have the crown placed over remaining structure of affected tooth after root canal therapy. This cup will  re-enforce the tooth and save it from breaking.

Root canal procedure should be performed by an endodontist or an experienced dentist.

The time will depend on each particular case, generally 1 to 2 hours. Depending on the degree of the infection or the complexity of the case, up to 3 sessions may be necessary.