A root canal is necessary when the nerve of a tooth becomes infected due to decay or damage. In the early stages, you may not experience any pain, but as the infection spreads through the root canal system, it can eventually lead to an abscess. Symptoms of an abscess can vary from a dull ache to severe pain, and the tooth may feel tender when biting.
The procedure involves removing the infected nerve tissue, thoroughly cleaning the root canal, and then filling the space to prevent further infection.
Thanks to modern techniques, root canal treatment is typically pain-free and comfortable, with many patients only experiencing slight discomfort or tenderness for a few days afterward.
Root canal treatment has a high success rate. If left untreated, the infection will continue to spread, and the tooth may need to be extracted.
