Root canal treatment (also called endodontic treatment) is used to save a tooth when the soft tissue inside it—the pulp—becomes infected or damaged. This can happen through deep decay, a crack, repeated dental work, or trauma. Without treatment, the infection can spread, cause an abscess, and lead to severe pain or tooth loss. A root canal removes the infected pulp, cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, and seals it so the tooth can stay in place and function normally for years.
At Brown Street Dental, Dr. Sunny Golwala and our team perform root canal treatment with care and attention to your comfort. The procedure is done under local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during it. We use modern techniques and equipment to clean the root canals thoroughly and seal them properly. After treatment, the tooth is usually restored with a filling or crown to protect it. Our goal is to relieve your pain, eliminate infection, and help you keep your natural tooth for the long term.
The Procedure
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Examination & X-Ray
Your dentist will:
- Examine the tooth and review X-rays to see the roots and extent of infection or damage
- Confirm that root canal treatment is the right option (and that the tooth can be saved)
- Explain the steps, how many visits may be needed, and answer your questions
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Numbing & Access
For your comfort:
- Local anaesthetic numbs the tooth and surrounding area
- A small opening is made in the top of the tooth to reach the pulp chamber and root canals
- We work under a rubber dam (a thin sheet) to keep the tooth clean and dry
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Cleaning & Shaping
The dentist will:
- Remove the infected or damaged pulp from the root canals
- Clean, shape, and disinfect the canals with small instruments and irrigation
- This may be completed in one visit or spread over two visits if the infection is severe
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Filling & Sealing
Once the canals are clean and dry:
- They are filled with a rubber-like material and sealer to seal the space and prevent reinfection
- The access opening is closed with a temporary or permanent filling
- We will advise whether the tooth needs a crown to protect it long term
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Restoration & Aftercare
To finish:
- A permanent filling or crown is placed to restore the tooth’s shape and strength
- You will be given aftercare advice (e.g. avoiding chewing on that side until the crown is placed, if needed)
- We may schedule a follow-up to check healing
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
Why saving your tooth matters
- ✓Relieves pain and eliminates infection so you can eat and smile comfortably again
- ✓Preserves your natural tooth—no need for extraction or replacement
- ✓Restores normal biting and chewing function when combined with a crown when needed
- ✓Prevents spread of infection to the bone or neighbouring teeth
- ✓Long-lasting results with good oral hygiene and regular checkups
- ✓Natural appearance—the tooth looks and feels like your own
Frequently Asked Questions
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Does root canal treatment hurt?The procedure is done under local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during it. You may feel pressure. Many people say it is similar to having a filling. If you had pain before the appointment, the treatment is what relieves it. Some mild tenderness for a few days afterward is normal and usually eases with over-the-counter pain relief.
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How long does a root canal take?A straightforward root canal may be completed in one visit of about 60–90 minutes. More complex cases (e.g. multiple roots, severe infection) may need two or more visits. We will give you an estimate at your assessment.
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Will I need a crown after a root canal?Often yes, especially for back teeth (molars and premolars), which take more chewing force. A crown protects the tooth from fracture and restores its strength. Front teeth may sometimes be restored with a filling only. We will recommend what is best for your tooth.
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How long will my tooth last after a root canal?With good oral hygiene, a permanent restoration (filling or crown), and regular checkups, a root‑canal‑treated tooth can last for many years or a lifetime. Avoiding hard foods on that tooth and wearing a night guard if you grind can help protect it.
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What if I don’t have a root canal?Without treatment, the infection can worsen, cause an abscess, and lead to severe pain and swelling. The tooth may eventually need to be extracted. Root canal treatment is intended to save the tooth and avoid these problems.
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Can I eat normally after a root canal?Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it is fully restored (e.g. with a permanent filling or crown). Until then, stick to the opposite side and avoid very hard or sticky foods. Once the restoration is in place, you can usually eat normally. We will give you specific advice at your appointment.
Have tooth pain or been told you need a root canal? Contact Brown Street Dental to book an assessment.