What Is a Root Canal Surgery?
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that removes infected or inflamed pulp from inside a tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue.
When bacteria reach the pulp — often due to deep decay, cracks, trauma, or repeated dental procedures — it can cause:
- Severe tooth pain
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swelling of the gums
- Abscess (infection at the root tip)
Instead of extracting the tooth, a root canal allows the dentist to clean the infection and preserve your natural tooth.
How the Procedure Works
Root canal treatment is typically performed by a general dentist or a specialist known as an Endodontist.
Here’s what usually happens:
Examination and X-rays
The dentist takes X-rays to assess the extent of infection and examine the root canals.
Local Anesthesia
The area is numbed to ensure you feel little to no discomfort during the procedure.
Removal of Infected Pulp
A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth. The infected pulp is carefully removed.
Cleaning and Disinfection
The root canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected to eliminate bacteria.
Filling and Sealing
The empty canals are filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to prevent reinfection.
Restoration
Most teeth require a dental crown afterward to restore strength and function.
Is a Root Canal Painful?
Modern root canal treatments are not as painful as many people think. Thanks to advanced techniques and anesthesia, the procedure feels similar to getting a regular filling.
In fact, root canals relieve pain — they don’t cause it.
How Long Does It Take?
- Most procedures take 60–90 minutes.
- Some cases require two visits, especially if the infection is severe.
Is It Better Than Tooth Extraction?
In many cases, yes. Saving your natural tooth helps:
- Maintain proper chewing
- Preserve jawbone structure
- Prevent neighboring teeth from shifting
- Avoid more costly procedures like implants or bridges
Dentists, including those aligned with standards from the American Association of Endodontists, emphasize preserving natural teeth whenever possible.
Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
Contact your dentist if you experience:
- Persistent tooth pain
- Sensitivity that lingers after hot or cold exposure
- Darkening of the tooth
- Swelling or tenderness in nearby gums
- A pimple-like bump on the gums
Early treatment prevents complications.