Endodontic treatment
An endodontic treatment, commonly known as a root canal or devitalisation, is a dental procedure that involves removing the soft tissue (pulp) inside a tooth because it is infected or damaged.
The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue that help nourish and moisturise the tooth. When infected, it can cause severe pain and infection.
Root canal treatment involves carefully removing the infected or damaged pulp, cleaning the inside of the tooth, filling it with a filling material and sealing it to prevent re-infection.
The procedure may take one or two visits to the dentist, depending on the severity of the infection and the damaged tooth.
Endodontic treatment is an alternative to tooth extraction, which means that it can save a tooth that would otherwise have to be removed. After the procedure, a crown or filling can be placed on the tooth to strengthen and protect it.
Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment can often last a lifetime, with proper dental care.