Root canal treatment

Inside the hard outer layer of a tooth is a soft pulp containing blood vessels and nerves. For example, trauma or bacteria from advanced tooth decay can damage the pulp. The pulp can often heal minor damage on its own, but when the damage is severe enough, the pulp becomes necrotic and easily serves as a breeding ground for microbes.

A sign of tooth pulp damage that will not heal on its own is often severe pain and, in particular, sensitivity to heat. Sometimes the damage may also be completely asymptomatic. Bacteria festering inside the tooth can spread through the root into the jawbone and from there into the bloodstream, posing a risk to overall health.

Root canal therapy removes damaged tissue from the core and roots of the tooth. The hollow tooth is then filled with a filling material to prevent bacterial growth.

The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia and is usually completely painless for the patient.

A root canal treated tooth is always weaker than an undamaged tooth. Therefore, we recommend a ceramic filling or crown for a root canal treated tooth to prevent further chipping.

Select “Dental appointment (e.g., 2–3 fillings or start of root canal treatment), up to 45 minutes” from our booking calendar