A root canal simply put is a treatment done on an infected or damaged tooth. It is usually done to save the tooth rather than removing it.
What is a Canal?
Each tooth consists of a compartment known as the ‘power house’ of the tooth. It houses the nerves and blood vessels which supplies the tooth it’s nutrients. This compartment is within the root of the tooth and it is known as a canal, hence the name root canal.
Root Canal Treatment in simple terms:
When your dentist does a root canal, he/she simply gains access into the compartment of your tooth(the canal/canals), removes the infected nerves and blood vessels, shapes and disinfects the canals and then seal it up.
A root canal can be a lengthy procedure. It is sometimes completed at a single sitting; however, if your tooth is infected, your dentist may require you to come a couple of times before completing the treatment.
What next after RCT?
After completing the treatment, your dentist will talk to you about putting a crown(cap) on the tooth to reinforce it and prevent it from breaking off.
In some cases, your dentist may not be able to save the tooth and so root canal treatment won’t be an option. e.g. in cases where a large part of the tooth has been affected by tooth decay.