Dental Reviewed

Procedures

Root Canal

A root canal is a treatment that removes infected or inflamed pulp from inside a tooth, then cleans, fills, and seals the root to save the tooth from extraction.

Modern root canal therapy is typically completed in 1–2 visits and is no more painful than a routine filling thanks to effective local anaesthesia. The procedure relies on rotary instruments such as ProTaper Gold or Coltene HyFlex CM, plus an apex locator. Success rates exceed 90% when followed by a properly fitted crown.

For aftercare, see our guide on managing discomfort from root canal treatment.

Also known as

  • Endodontic treatment
  • RCT

Related terms

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