What is Root Canal Treatment and How is it Done?
Dental health is an integral part of our general health and can lead to serious problems when neglected. In daily life, many people experience toothaches due to reasons such as tooth decay, inflammation or trauma. Such problems can lead to tooth loss if not treated early. However, modern dentistry offers advanced treatment methods to save damaged teeth. One of these methods is root canal treatment.
This procedure is a procedure that cleans the infected or damaged nerve tissue inside the tooth and allows the tooth to remain in the mouth without losing its function. This treatment, which helps to protect oral health by repairing the tooth instead of extracting it, is especially applied to advanced decay or trauma-related tooth damage.
What is Root Canal Treatment?
It is a dental treatment method applied in cases where the nerve and vascular tissue (pulp) in the inner part of the tooth is damaged or infected. Pulp is the living tissue of the tooth and helps it stay healthy by providing nutrition. However, this tissue can become inflamed or damaged as a result of deep cavities, tooth fractures, repeated dental treatments or traumas. In such a case, if left untreated, the infection can progress and spread to the tooth root and surrounding tissues. This can cause severe pain, abscess formation and even tooth loss over time.
The main purpose of this treatment is to remove the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth and make the tooth healthy and functional. During the treatment, the root canals of the tooth are carefully opened and the inflamed or dead tissue inside is cleaned. Then, the canals are cleaned with special disinfectants and made hygienic to prevent bacterial growth. In the final stage, these gaps are filled with biocompatible filling materials and the tooth is closed.
In the past, it was common practice to completely extract a tooth when the dental pulp was damaged. However, thanks to modern dentistry, root canal treatment makes it possible to preserve the natural structure of the tooth by preserving it. This way, patients can continue to use their natural teeth for many years.
In Which Cases Is Root Canal Treatment Necessary?
Root canal treatment is usually used in cases where the nerve tissue of the tooth is damaged or infected. So, in which cases does this treatment become inevitable? Here are some common cases where root canal treatment is required:
- Deep Tooth Decay
If a cavity is not treated in a timely manner, bacteria can progress to the innermost layer of the tooth and reach the nerve tissue. In this case, severe pain, a throbbing sensation and even inflammation can be experienced in the tooth. In such a scenario, root canal treatment is the most effective way to save the tooth without extraction.
- Dental Trauma
A tooth may break or crack as a result of a sudden blow, accident or fall. In such cases, the nerve tissue of the tooth may be damaged and infection may develop over time. Even if there is no pain in the tooth due to trauma, the nerves may die over time and the tooth may turn gray or dark in color. In such a case, root canal treatment may be required.
- Tooth Abscess and Root Infections
An infection that develops at the root of the tooth can spread to the jawbone over time and cause serious health problems. A tooth abscess usually presents with symptoms such as throbbing pain, facial swelling, bad taste or bad breath. If left untreated, this infection can spread to surrounding tissues and even other parts of the body.
- Severe Tooth Sensitivity
If you suddenly feel a sharp pain in your tooth when you consume hot, cold or sweet foods and drinks, this may indicate damage to the nerve tissue. When tooth enamel erosion or decay puts excessive pressure on the nerves, this sensitivity can be relieved with root canal treatment.
How is Root Canal Treatment Performed?
Root canal treatment is a meticulous procedure that is performed in several stages. First, the dentist performs an intraoral examination, takes x-rays, and evaluates the root structure of the tooth and the extent of the infection. Then, local anesthesia is applied so that the patient does not feel pain.
After the anesthesia begins to take effect, the doctor uses special tools to clean the infected pulp tissue inside the tooth and clean the root canals from bacteria.
The cleaned canals are shaped to make them suitable for filling and then filled with a special filling material to protect the inside of the tooth from bacteria. If there is a risk of infection, the dentist may wait a few days with a temporary filling, but in most cases, the treatment is completed in a single visit.
Finally, if the tooth has lost too much material, a porcelain or zirconium coating can be applied to increase its durability and restore its function.
What to Consider After Root Canal Treatment?
Here are some important points to consider after root canal treatment:
There may be mild pain and sensitivity for the first few days. This is normal and usually goes away on its own within a few days. You can use painkillers recommended by your doctor to reduce the pain.
Avoid chewing hard foods with the treated tooth. You need to be careful for a few days for your tooth to heal completely.
Pay attention to oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth regularly, using dental floss, and taking care of your mouth with antiseptic mouthwashes will reduce the risk of infection.
Do not neglect regular dentist check-ups. You should go for check-ups at the intervals recommended by your doctor to ensure that the treated tooth remains healthy.
Is Root Canal Treatment a Painful Procedure?
Local anesthesia is applied to the tooth before root canal treatment, so the patient does not feel any pain during the procedure. However, there may be mild pain or tenderness after the treatment. This is part of the body’s healing process and usually goes away within a few days.
Root Canal Treatment Prices 2025
Root canal treatment prices in 2025 vary depending on factors such as the condition of the tooth to be treated, the materials to be used, the experience of the dentist, and the region where the clinic is located. In addition, additional procedures included in the treatment process (for example, covering the tooth or placing a crown) may also affect the cost.
Prices in private clinics may vary depending on the needs of the patient and the quality of the services provided for the treatment. In state hospitals, treatment fees may be more affordable thanks to the opportunities provided under the SSI. Root canal treatment prices vary for each patient, as they will be shaped according to a treatment plan determined in line with personal preferences and needs.
