Understanding the Steps in Root Canal Treatment

Endodontic treatment can often be performed in single or multiple visits and involves the following steps:

The endodontist examines and takes a radiograph of the tooth using x-rays, then administers local anaesthetic in the specific region of tooth.
The endodontist makes an opening in the crown of the tooth. Hand and rotary files are used to clean the pulp from the pulp chamber and root canals and to shape the space for filling the root canal system.
After space is shaped and cleaned, the endodontist fills the root canals with a biocompatible material, usually a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. The gutta-percha is placed with a sealer to ensure complete impervious sealing of the root canal system. In most cases, a temporary filling is placed to close the opening. The temporary filling will be removed by your dentist before the tooth is restored with permanent filling.
After the final visit with your endodontist, you must return to your dentist to have a crown or other restoration placed on the tooth to protect and restore it to full function.