Root canal treatment
Root canal treatment may help retain a restorable tooth when the pulp inside it is irreversibly damaged or infected. The internal canals are cleaned, shaped and filled, and the upper part of the tooth is then protected with a suitable restoration.
When might it be needed?
Deep decay, a crack, an injury or previous dental work can affect the pulp. Lingering sensitivity to heat or cold, spontaneous pain, discomfort on biting or swelling around a tooth may need assessment. None of these symptoms alone confirms that root canal treatment is required. Problems can also be found in teeth that are not currently painful.
How is the decision made?
Your dentist asks when the problem began, what triggers it and what treatment the tooth has already received. Clinical tests and appropriate imaging are assessed together. The remaining sound tooth structure, the condition of the roots and the surrounding support are important. A tooth that cannot be restored may require a different approach. The aim is to choose a suitable plan, not to offer the same procedure for every painful tooth.
What happens during treatment?
After appropriate anaesthesia, the dentist accesses the inside of the tooth. Affected tissue is removed and the canals are cleaned, shaped and filled. Appropriate isolation of the tooth is important during the procedure. Some cases can be completed in one visit; others need further appointments and a temporary filling between them. Root anatomy, infection and any previous root canal treatment can affect the time needed.
Why does the final restoration matter?
Root canal treatment does not replace missing tooth structure above the gum. A filling, onlay, endocrown or crown may be considered to restore the seal and protect the tooth under biting forces. Not every root-treated tooth needs the same restoration. The remaining structure and bite guide the choice. Completing the planned final restoration is an important part of treatment.
What should I expect afterwards?
Temporary tenderness or discomfort when biting can occur, but its course should be monitored. Avoid chewing and hot drinks until numbness has worn off. Do not put heavy biting forces on a tooth with a temporary filling. Contact the clinic if pain increases, swelling develops, the temporary filling is lost or the tooth feels high when you bite. Rapidly spreading facial or neck swelling, or difficulty breathing or swallowing, requires urgent medical assessment.
Follow-up and limitations
A root-treated tooth can still develop decay or cracks. Continue daily cleaning and attend the planned reviews. Healing does not always progress as expected; further root canal treatment, another procedure or extraction may sometimes be considered. Ask about the expected benefits, limitations and alternatives before deciding on treatment.
Related Treatment Options
Composite fillings
Composite fillings use tooth-coloured material to repair suitable areas of decay or damage. The aim is to rebuild shape and function while p...
Inlays, onlays and endocrowns
Inlays, onlays and endocrowns are restorations made outside the mouth and fitted to a prepared tooth. They are not interchangeable names: th...
Aftercare & Recovery Information
Follow practical guidelines for eating, cleaning and symptom management after treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about root canal treatment?
Schedule an examination with our team in İnegöl to discuss suitability, alternative approaches and personalised care.
