Root canal treatment has a scary reputation it doesn’t really deserve anymore. With modern techniques and anaesthesia, most patients say it feels about the same as getting a filling. Here’s what actually happens.

Why you’d need one

A root canal is needed when the soft tissue inside your tooth (the pulp) becomes infected or inflamed, usually from deep decay, a crack, or repeated dental work. Left untreated, this can lead to an abscess and eventually loss of the tooth.

What happens during the procedure

Your dentist numbs the area, then removes the infected pulp from inside the tooth. The empty space is cleaned, disinfected, and filled to seal it off from further infection. Most cases take one to two visits, and a crown is often placed afterward to protect the tooth long-term.

Recovery

Some mild soreness for a few days is normal and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. Most people are back to normal eating and activities within a day or two.

If you’re dealing with persistent tooth pain, don’t put off getting it checked. Book an appointment and we’ll assess whether a root canal or another treatment is right for you.