Root canal treatment

• Deep cavities causing inflammation or necrosis of the dental pulp

• Apical periodontitis (inflammation at the tip of the tooth root)

• Gum abscess or pus formation caused by root inflammation

The length of the tooth root canal, especially the degree of root curvature, affects the difficulty of root canal treatment. Curved roots can prevent instruments from reaching the apex, making it difficult to thoroughly clean and disinfect the inflamed pulp. This increases the treatment’s complexity and can impact its success rate.

The success rate of root canal treatment depends on the condition of the dental pulp. Teeth with early-stage pulp inflammation generally have a higher success rate compared to teeth with pulp necrosis. This is because necrotic pulp harbors more bacteria, which can spread to the tooth surface and surrounding alveolar bone, worsening the inflammation.

Yes, there is a possibility. Failure of the initial root canal treatment or bacterial regrowth can cause inflammation to recur. Performing a second root canal increases the risk of root fracture and significantly lowers the success rate, while also incurring higher treatment costs for the patient. Therefore, depending on the condition of the tooth, dentists may often recommend extraction.

After root canal treatment, the tooth structure undergoes significant changes and loses the nutritional support from the pulp, gradually becoming very fragile and unable to withstand normal chewing forces. This makes the tooth prone to fracture. Therefore, dentists usually recommend placing a crown within 3–6 months after treatment if there are no other symptoms.

Teeth with inflammation are difficult to completely clean in a single treatment. If any pulp tissue remains, the patient may experience sensitivity to hot or cold stimuli.

Additionally, the filling material placed in the tooth can cause temporary pressure and discomfort. This pain usually subsides within a day or two. If the pain intensifies, painkillers may be taken as needed.

Root canal treatment involves removing the inflamed or necrotic pulp, disinfecting the root canal, and filling it. Depending on the severity of the tooth’s inflammation, the treatment typically requires 2–4 visits to complete.