Root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to treat infection or inflammation inside a tooth while preserving the natural tooth. It may be recommended when the pulp inside a tooth has been damaged by decay, trauma, cracks or repeated dental procedures.
If you have been advised that you may need a root canal, understanding why it is needed, what happens during treatment, recovery and the factors that affect cost can help you prepare for your consultation.
What Is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment, also called endodontic treatment, treats problems affecting the pulp inside a tooth. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels and sits within the centre of the tooth.
During treatment, the affected pulp is removed, the root canals are cleaned and disinfected, and the space is filled and sealed. The tooth can then be restored so it can continue to function.
You can learn more about the procedure and treatment options on LQ Dental’s root canal treatment service page.
When Might You Need a Root Canal?
A root canal may be considered when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected and cannot recover. Common causes include:
- Deep tooth decay
- Cracked or fractured teeth
- Dental trauma
- Infection or an abscess
- Repeated procedures on the same tooth
Possible symptoms include persistent toothache, pain when biting, lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling or tenderness around the tooth, or changes in tooth colour.
However, some teeth with pulp damage may have few or no symptoms. An examination and appropriate dental imaging are therefore important before deciding whether root canal treatment is necessary.
If decay is detected before the pulp is significantly affected, treatment such as dental fillings may sometimes be appropriate.
Is Root Canal Treatment Painful?
Root canal treatment is performed under local anaesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding area. Some soreness or tenderness can occur after treatment, particularly when the tooth was already inflamed or infected.
If you are anxious about dental treatment, discuss your concerns with your dental team before the procedure. LQ Dental’s root canal service also outlines options for patients who require additional comfort planning.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
The exact treatment varies depending on the tooth and the complexity of the case. It generally involves:
- Examination and diagnosis – The dentist assesses the tooth and may use X-rays or other imaging.
- Local anaesthesia – The area is numbed before treatment begins.
- Accessing the tooth – A small opening is made to reach the affected pulp.
- Cleaning the canals – Damaged or infected tissue is removed and the canals are cleaned and shaped.
- Filling and sealing – The cleaned canals are filled and sealed to help prevent reinfection.
- Final restoration – A filling or crown may be recommended to restore and protect the tooth.
LQ Dental’s current root canal treatment information describes clinical assessment, digital imaging, local anaesthesia, cleaning and shaping, filling and sealing, followed by restoration where required.
Do You Need a Crown After a Root Canal?
Not every root canal-treated tooth requires exactly the same type of restoration. The recommendation depends on the amount of remaining tooth structure, the tooth’s location and the forces placed on it during chewing.
A crown will usually be recommended when additional protection is needed to restore the tooth and reduce the risk of fracture.
You can learn more about dental crowns and same-day crown treatment at LQ Dental.
How Much Does Root Canal Treatment Cost in Singapore?
The cost of root canal treatment in Singapore varies between cases. Factors that can affect the overall cost include:
- Which tooth requires treatment
- The number and complexity of the root canals
- The extent of infection or inflammation
- Diagnostic imaging
- Whether additional procedures are required
- The type of final restoration needed
The cost of the root canal procedure should also be considered separately from the cost of restoring the tooth afterwards.
Because every tooth and case is different, an examination is needed before an accurate treatment plan and cost estimate can be provided.
Root Canal Treatment or Tooth Extraction?
Root canal treatment aims to treat the affected tooth while preserving the remaning natural tooth structure. Extraction removes the tooth and may mean that tooth replacement needs to be considered later.
Extraction may be recommended when a tooth cannot be predictably restored, such as when there is extensive structural damage or a severe fracture.
If extraction is required, LQ Dental provides non-surgical tooth extraction and other tooth replacement options, including dental implants.
The appropriate option depends on the condition of the individual tooth and should be discussed with a dentist following an examination.
What Happens If Root Canal Treatment Is Delayed?
When a tooth has significant pulp infection or inflammation, delaying treatment may allow the condition to progress. Depending on the situation, this can result in worsening symptoms, an abscess or damage to the tissues surrounding the tooth.
A previously treated tooth can also develop problems again. If you experience persistent symptoms after a root canal, a dental assessment can help determine the cause and whether further treatment is appropriate.
When Should You See a Dentist?
Arrange a dental assessment if you experience:
- Persistent or recurring toothache
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swelling around the tooth or gums
- A pimple-like bump on the gum
- Tooth discolouration
- Signs of infection or an abscess
Severe pain, facial swelling, fever, or difficulty swallowing or breathing requires prompt professional assessment.
Root Canal Treatment at LQ Dental in Novena, Singapore
LQ Dental is a dental centre located at Square 2 (Novena Medical Center) in Singapore. Established in 1990, the clinic provides comprehensive dental care with a team that includes general dental practitioners, oral surgeons and a consultant periodontist. Endodontics, or root canal treatment, is one of the clinic’s areas of focus.
LQ Dental’s root canal service provides information about diagnosis, imaging, anaesthesia, cleaning and shaping of the canals, filling and sealing, restoration and treatment options for previously treated teeth.
You can also explore the LQ Dental clinicians page to learn more about the dental professionals at the clinic.
Request a Root Canal Consultation
If you have persistent tooth pain, sensitivity, swelling or have been advised that you may need root canal treatment, an examination can help determine the cause and appropriate treatment options.
You can request an appointment with LQ Dental at Novena Medical Center to discuss your symptoms and treatment options.
For information about preparing for your visit, see LQ Dental’s Patient Information page. You can also contact LQ Dental if you have questions.