Restorative Dentistry
Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment addresses infection or inflammation of the tissue inside a tooth. The aim is to relieve symptoms and keep a tooth that would otherwise need removing.
Treatment overview
Inside each tooth is a space containing nerve and blood vessels. If bacteria reach this space through deep decay, a crack or trauma, the tissue can become inflamed or infected.
During treatment this space is cleaned, shaped and disinfected, then sealed to prevent bacteria re-entering.
A root-treated tooth has lost structure and is often more brittle, so it commonly needs a crown afterwards to protect it.
Why patients consider root canal treatment
- Persistent toothache or pain on biting.
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold.
- Swelling or a recurring gum boil near a tooth.
- Infection identified on a radiograph, sometimes without symptoms.
- A tooth darkening after an injury.
Consultation and suitability
The tooth must be restorable — enough sound structure has to remain for a definitive restoration afterwards.
Radiographs are used to assess the root anatomy and surrounding bone.
Where a tooth cannot be restored predictably, removal and replacement may be discussed as an alternative.
A clinical examination is required before any treatment plan can be confirmed. Suitability depends on your individual oral health.
The treatment process
Diagnosis
Clinical tests and radiographs establish the condition of the tooth and the surrounding bone.
Anaesthetic and isolation
Local anaesthetic is given and the tooth is isolated to keep the area clean during treatment.
Cleaning and shaping
The canal system is accessed, cleaned, disinfected and shaped.
Sealing
The canals are filled and sealed. This may take more than one appointment.
Restoration
The tooth is rebuilt, often with a crown, to protect it against fracture.
Review
Healing is monitored, sometimes with a follow-up radiograph.
Aftercare
- Tenderness for a few days after treatment is common.
- Avoid chewing hard food on the tooth until the definitive restoration is placed.
- Complete the recommended restoration promptly — an unprotected root-treated tooth is at risk of fracture.
- Report increasing pain or swelling rather than waiting.
Limitations and risks
Every treatment has trade-offs. These are the ones worth understanding before you decide.
- Root canal treatment is not always successful; occasionally retreatment, surgery or removal becomes necessary.
- A root-treated tooth is more brittle and may fracture without adequate protection.
- Complex root anatomy can make treatment more difficult.
- The tooth may darken over time.
Who would carry this out
Esra Namlı
Dentist
Umut Çağdaş Ateş
Dentist
Which clinician carries out your treatment is confirmed by the clinic. Names and titles are published exactly as supplied.
Frequently asked questions
The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic. Discomfort for a few days afterwards is common and usually settles. Tell your dentist if pain increases.
The tooth has lost internal structure and is more prone to fracture. A crown distributes biting forces and protects what remains.
That is an alternative, but the space then needs managing. Both routes, with their implications, are discussed at the consultation.
Related treatments
Medical disclaimer. Information on this website is provided for general informational purposes and does not replace a clinical examination or professional dental advice. Treatment suitability, duration and outcomes vary by patient.