Root canal guide

What a root canal is

Cleveland Clinic describes a root canal as a treatment that removes infected pulp from inside a tooth, then cleans and seals the canals to save the tooth, needed when bacteria reach the pulp, usually through a deep cavity or a crack. ADA MouthHealthy describes it as repairing and saving a severely damaged or decaying tooth, or one with an abscess, instead of removing it.

Does a root canal hurt?

Cleveland Clinic says it is usually no more painful than getting a filling, with pressure during the procedure and mild soreness afterward. The AAE says modern root canal treatment relieves pain instead of causing it, that local anesthesia numbs the tooth and surrounding area, and that you may feel pressure or movement but not sharp pain. Its myths page says the pain people associate with root canals usually comes from the infection itself.

Do they put you under for a root canal?

Usually not. The AAE says most root canals use local anesthesia, which numbs only the treated area so you stay awake, and that sedation options vary by office. Cleveland Clinic says if you are anxious you may be given medication to help you relax, which can leave you drowsy afterward. General anesthesia is not described in the sources we read, so ask the office what they offer.

What happens during the procedure

The AAE and Cleveland Clinic describe the same steps: the tooth is numbed and isolated with a dental dam, an opening is made in the crown, the pulp is removed, the canals are cleaned and shaped, filled with a rubbery material, and sealed with a temporary filling. Cleveland Clinic says it typically takes 60 to 90 minutes and sometimes more than one visit, and the AAE says often one or two visits of about 90 minutes each.

Who does root canals?

Cleveland Clinic and ADA MouthHealthy say a general dentist or an endodontist can perform a root canal. The AAE says general dentists are trained to do them but endodontists specialize in them after at least two additional years of training, and that you can book one directly. The sources we read do not mention oral surgeons doing root canals; an oral surgeon's usual role is surgery on the teeth, gums or jawbone, and our endodontist guide explains the difference.

Do you need a crown after a root canal?

Often, yes. The AAE says a crown or other restoration protects the tooth and restores its function, that back teeth (molars and premolars) usually need crowns for chewing, and that front teeth often do not. Cleveland Clinic says a permanent crown is placed later, expecting about two more appointments, and the AAE says a general dentist places it. A post may be added if the tooth lacks enough structure.

Recovery

Cleveland Clinic says most people recover in under a week, and the AAE says mild soreness or sensitivity typically improves within three to five days. Avoid chewing on the tooth until it is permanently restored and eat soft foods. Our guide on eating after a root canal covers the details.

Can a root canal get infected or fail?

Yes, sometimes. The AAE says reinfection can occur months or years later due to a cracked filling, a delayed crown, new decay or trauma, and that retreatment or endodontic surgery can often save the tooth. Cleveland Clinic says most root canals succeed and can last many years, often a lifetime, but may fail if damage is too severe, and that if it fails the tooth may be re-treated or removed and replaced with an implant or bridge. The AAE reports success rates often above 90 percent, which is the specialty body's own figure, and says lifetime success cannot be assured.

Guides in this topic

Frequently asked questions