What does “Root canal treatment” mean?
Root canal treatment preserves a natural tooth by removing inflamed or infected pulp tissue and cleaning and filling the canals inside the tooth. It is also called endodontic treatment.
Original spelling: 근관치료
In what cases is it needed?
Root canal treatment may be considered when deep decay or trauma has caused pulp damage that cannot readily recover, or infection. Pain that lingers after a stimulus, pain on chewing, or a draining tract on the gum are signs that the cause needs to be examined.
What happens inside the tooth?
After anesthesia, the inside of the tooth is accessed and problematic pulp tissue is removed. After the root canal is cleaned, shaped, and filled, the top is sealed to reduce re-contamination.
Restoration and care after treatment
After treatment inside the tooth, it is filled or protected with an appropriate restoration. Even when considering an appearance-changing treatment such as ZERONATE, pulp and root canal problems and the tooth-supporting structures must be assessed first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stop treatment midway once the pain stops?
Pain reduction and completion of root canal treatment are different. The necessary steps, including internal filling and final sealing and restoration, must be completed.
Will problems occur again with teeth that have had root canal treatment?
Even after treatment, reinfection or fracture may occur. If swelling or pain reappears, get tested and check possible options, such as retreatment.
Questions needed to understand endodontic treatment
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Preservation of natural teeth
Can this tooth be restored and used after treatment?
Explanation and evidenceThe infection within the root canal as well as the remaining tooth structure are evaluated.
American Association of Endodontists · What is a Root Canal? - Care after treatment
Have you completed all internal treatment and final restoration?
Explanation and evidenceDistinguish between necessary finishing touches such as filling and crowning and subsequent inspection.
NHS · Root canal treatment
