Root canal treatment is a treatment method applied in cases where the soft tissue called pulp inside the tooth is infected or damaged. The pulp contains the nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue of the tooth.

Root canal treatment is usually necessary in the following cases:

Tooth decay: An advanced decay can reach the pulp layer of the tooth and cause infection.

Tooth trauma: The pulp can be damaged as a result of the tooth being hit or broken.

Recurrent infections in the tooth: When recurrent infections occur in a tooth, root canal treatment may be required.

How is Root Canal Treatment Performed?

Root canal treatment usually includes the following steps:

Anesthesia: Before the procedure, the tooth and its surrounding area are numbed with local anesthesia. In this way, pain and discomfort are minimized.

Opening access: A hole is opened on the tooth and the inside of the tooth is reached. This step provides access to the pulp chamber and root canals.

Pulp removal: Infected or damaged pulp tissue and nerves are removed. Root canals are cleaned and shaped.

Root canal irrigation and disinfection: The root canals are rinsed and disinfected with special solutions. This step removes bacteria and infection.

Root canal filling: The cleaned and shaped root canals are filled with gutta-percha, a special filling material. This filler material permanently seals the canals.

Restoration: The tooth that has undergone root canal treatment is usually restored with a filling or dental crown. This restores the tooth’s strength and durability.

Root canal treatment is usually completed in one or more sessions, especially in cases of infection. Some patients may experience temporary pain or tenderness after the procedure, but this usually decreases over time.

Root canal treatment helps control the infection and helps preserve the tooth. However, in some cases, the condition of the tooth may be so bad that root canal treatment is not successful and the tooth may need to be extracted.