Restorative Dentistry
Root Canal Therapy
A root canal treats the soft inner tissue of a tooth when it becomes infected or inflamed — often from deep decay, a crack, or injury. The treatment removes the damaged tissue, cleans and seals the inside of the tooth, and relieves the pain that comes with infection.
At a glance
- Typical visit
- 60 to 90 minutes
- Visits needed
- One or two
- Comfort
- Local anaesthetic throughout
- Afterwards
- Usually restored with a crown
What it is
Molars come up often here, for the same reason they come up in fillings: deep decay tends to start in their grooves, and if it is left long enough it reaches the nerve inside. A molar is also more intricate to treat than a front tooth. Where an upper front tooth typically has a single root and a single canal, a molar has several roots and more than one canal to find, clean, and seal — so a molar root canal usually takes longer, and sometimes more than one visit.
Despite its reputation, a modern root canal is a comfortable procedure — about as routine as getting a filling. Best of all, it lets you keep your natural tooth instead of having it removed.
Who it's for
- A tooth with deep decay or infection reaching the inner pulp
- Persistent toothache, or lasting sensitivity to hot or cold
- A cracked or injured tooth with damaged inner tissue
- Anyone wanting to save a natural tooth rather than remove it
What to expect
- 1
Diagnosis
We examine the tooth and take an X-ray to confirm the infection and plan treatment.
- 2
Comfortable numbing
We fully numb the area so you stay relaxed and pain-free throughout.
- 3
Cleaning the tooth
We remove the infected tissue, then clean and disinfect each canal inside the tooth — on a molar that means several, which is why these appointments run longer.
- 4
Sealing & restoring
We seal the tooth and, usually, recommend a crown to protect and strengthen it.
Recovery & aftercare
It's normal for the tooth and surrounding area to feel a little tender for a few days, which over-the-counter pain relief easily manages. The pain from the original infection typically eases right away.
Until your tooth is fully restored — often with a crown — chew on the other side and avoid hard foods on it. Once restored and cared for, a treated tooth can last many years.
Common questions
- Does a root canal hurt?
- With modern techniques and anesthesia, a root canal feels much like getting a filling. It actually relieves the pain caused by the infection rather than causing it.
- Why not just pull the tooth?
- Saving your natural tooth is almost always the best option — it preserves your bite, your appearance, and the health of neighbouring teeth. We'll explain your choices clearly.
- Will I need a crown afterward?
- On a molar, usually yes. Reaching the canals means opening the top of the tooth, and a molar that has already lost structure to decay is left with thinner walls facing full chewing pressure. A crown covers it and holds it together, which is what lets a treated back tooth go on serving you for years.
- Why does a root canal on a back tooth take longer?
- A front tooth commonly has one root and one canal. A molar has several roots and more than one canal, and each has to be located, cleaned, shaped, and sealed individually. More canals simply means more time in the chair, and occasionally a second appointment — the treatment itself is no less comfortable.
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for a professional evaluation. Diagnosis and treatment should always be determined by a qualified dental professional based on your individual condition.
Talk to us about root canal therapy
Have questions or ready to get started? Book a visit and we'll examine, explain your options clearly, and care for your smile from start to finish.