What are the possible complications from a root canal?

Despite the best efforts of your dentist to clean, seal and treat your tooth, new infections can develop after a root canal. While uncommon, the likely causes for this include:

What signs and symptoms tell you that endodontic (root canal) treatment is needed?

Endodontic (Root Canal) treatment is needed for two main reasons.

1. Infection - untreated cavities are a common cause of tooth pulp infection. The decay erodes the enamel and dentin of the tooth until it reaches a root canal. This allows bacteria to infiltrate the area and infect the pulp. Since antibiotics cannot reach the inside of the tooth to treat the infection, the inflammation caused by the infection reduces the blood supply to the tooth and the reduced blood supply prevents the pulp from healing.

How long does it take for root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment can be completed in one or more visits depending on the complexity and severity of the condition.

Are Root Canal Procedures painful?

Root canal procedures have the reputation of being painful. In actuality, with modern anesthesia, most patients report that the procedure itself is no more painful than having a filling placed.

What should I expect after my root canal treatment?

For the first few days after the completion of your root canal treatment, the tooth may be sensitive due to inflammation, especially if there was pain or infection prior to the procedure. This sensitivity or discomfort can usually be controlled with over-the-counter pain or anti-inflammatory medications. Most patients can return to their normal daily activities the next day.