Treatment steps

Generally, several steps are required to finish your root canal but your dentist will advise you.

Appointment 1

1. The tooth is numbed.
2. A dental dam is placed over the tooth. The dental dam keeps saliva and bacteria outside the tooth. It stops bad-tasting materials from getting in your mouth. The dental dam is essential for safety and your dentist will make it comfortable for you.                                                                                                                                       
3. Decay/ deep fillings/ fractured parts of the crown are removed.
4. The root canals are found.
5. The root canal(s) is cleaned and shaped with antibacterial liquid and tiny instruments (files).                                                                                         
6. An X-ray may be taken.
7. The inside of the canal(s) is shaped.
8. Medication is placed into the cleaned root canal(s) and the crown gets a temporary filling.

The dentist will let you know when to return for the next appointment and how many more appointments will be needed.

Appointment 2

1. The tooth may be numbed.
2. Placement of dental dam.
3. Temporary filling and medication may be removed.
4. There is continued cleaning of the root canal.
5. X-ray(s) may be taken.
6. If the tooth has settled down, the root filling(s) can be placed.
7. A permanent filling is provided for the crown.