Root Canal Treatment (Endodontics): Procedure

Published: Last updated:
This content was prepared by the dentists of Özel Serdent Oral and Dental Health Polyclinic. Our dentists
By /

Root canal treatment (endodontics) is the treatment applied when the pulp tissue inside the tooth, which contains the nerves and vessels, becomes inflamed or infected. During the procedure the canal system is cleaned and shaped, and then filled with a suitable material. Whether the tooth is suitable for root canal treatment is determined by the dentist after an intraoral examination and radiographic evaluation.

Situations in which it is considered

  • Deep decay that has reached the pulp tissue
  • Prolonged sensitivity to hot and cold, or spontaneous pain
  • Trauma, cracks or fractures affecting the tooth
  • Inflammation detected at the root tip on a radiograph
  • Teeth requiring re-treatment following a previous root canal procedure

How the procedure proceeds

  1. Intraoral examination and radiographic evaluation
  2. Application of local anaesthesia by the dentist
  3. Isolation of the tooth and access to the canal system
  4. Cleaning and shaping of the canals, and irrigation
  5. Filling of the canals with a suitable material
  6. Restoration of the tooth with a filling or, where required, a crown
  7. Radiographic follow-up at the intervals set by the dentist

The number of sessions varies according to the condition of the tooth, the number of canals and whether infection is present. Local anaesthesia is used during the procedure; the anaesthesia method is decided by the dentist according to the patient’s condition.

After treatment

Sensitivity to chewing may be felt for a few days after the procedure. During this period it is recommended to avoid chewing hard foods on the treated side and to follow the dentist’s instructions regarding any medication. If the tooth has been left with a temporary filling, the appointment for the permanent restoration should not be delayed. Teeth with extensive loss of substance may require a crown; this decision is made by the dentist.

Frequently asked questions

Why is the tooth not simply extracted

Keeping the natural tooth in the mouth helps to preserve the bite relationship and the neighbouring teeth. Whether the tooth can be kept is assessed by the dentist through examination and radiographic evaluation; where it cannot be kept, extraction and, if suitable, implant treatment may be considered.

Can the tooth change colour after treatment

Discolouration may be seen in some teeth after root canal treatment. In such cases the dentist may evaluate options such as internal whitening or a restoration.

How is the treated tooth followed up

Follow-up radiographs are taken at intervals determined by the dentist. Regular check-ups and oral hygiene habits directly affect the long-term condition of the tooth.

CONTACT

If you have a question about this subject, you can reach our clinic.

The information on this page is for general information purposes only and does not replace an examination by a dentist. Diagnosis and treatment planning are carried out by the dentist following an intraoral examination and, where considered necessary, radiographic evaluation.

Related content

CONTACT

You can reach our clinic for information and appointments.

Serdent Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı Polikliniği

Yenibağlar Mah. Fabrikalar Sok. No: 12/A, Tepebaşı / Eskişehir

Every day 09:30 – 20:30

More questions patients ask

What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment, also called endodontic treatment, is the cleaning, shaping and filling of the canal system of a tooth when the pulp tissue inside the tooth is inflamed or has lost its vitality.
When is root canal treatment needed?
It is assessed in situations such as deep decay, dental trauma, prolonged toothache or signs of infection around the root of the tooth. The decision is made by the dentist after examination and radiographic assessment.
How many appointments does root canal treatment take?
In some cases it can be completed in a single appointment, while in others more than one appointment is required. The number depends on the condition of the tooth and the anatomy of the canal system.
Is a crown needed after root canal treatment?
Where a large amount of tooth structure has been lost, a crown type restoration may be recommended in order to reduce the risk of fracture. This is decided by the dentist according to the remaining sound tooth structure.
Can a root canal treated tooth be treated again?
If healing is incomplete or infection returns, retreatment or root-end surgery may be considered. Follow-up is carried out with radiographs.
What should be avoided after treatment?
While a temporary filling is in place, hard and sticky foods should be avoided on that side. Eating should wait until the numbness has worn off.
Scroll to Top