Emergencies & pain

Root canal treatment: keeping your own tooth

If the inside of a tooth – the dental pulp with its blood vessels – is inflamed or has died, root canal treatment can save the tooth in many cases. It removes the inflammation and seals the root canals tightly.

At a glance

Anaesthesia
Local anaesthesia
Sessions
Usually one to three
Afterwards
Often a crown to protect the tooth

Root canal treatment explained

Inside every tooth lies the pulp, often called the "nerve". If bacteria reach it, for example through deep decay or a crack, it becomes inflamed. This often causes severe pain, but sometimes the inflammation causes no symptoms at all.

In root canal treatment (endodontics) the inflamed tissue is removed and the fine root canals are cleaned, disinfected and then tightly filled. Digital X-rays help us measure the length of the canals precisely on screen.

When is the treatment appropriate?

  • Severe, throbbing or night-time toothache
  • Lasting sensitivity to heat or cold
  • Deep decay that reaches the nerve
  • Inflammation at the root tip, often visible on an X-ray
  • An injured tooth after an accident

How the treatment works

  1. Diagnosis

    We examine the tooth and assess the inflammation and root canals on an X-ray.

  2. Cleaning the canals

    Under local anaesthesia we open the tooth, remove the inflamed tissue and clean and disinfect the root canals.

  3. Filling

    Once the canals are clean and free of symptoms, they are filled tightly. Depending on the situation, several sessions may be needed.

  4. Restoration

    Finally the tooth is sealed. Because root-filled teeth can become brittle, we often recommend a crown.

Benefits

  • Your own tooth is kept
  • Inflammation and pain are treated
  • Prosthetics or an implant can often be avoided

Risks and limitations

Root canal treatment is demanding because root canals can be very fine and branched. Not every tooth can be treated successfully. In some cases inflammation remains or returns later; a repeat treatment, surgery at the root tip or removal of the tooth may then be necessary. The tooth can be sensitive for a few days after treatment.

Aftercare

Do not eat until the anaesthetic has worn off. Mild discomfort in the first few days is normal. Chew carefully on the tooth until it has its definitive restoration, and keep your check-up appointments.

Frequently asked questions

Does root canal treatment hurt?

The treatment is carried out under local anaesthesia, so you usually feel little. Afterwards the tooth may be sensitive for a few days. If you are very anxious, there are other options we are happy to discuss with you.

How long does a root-filled tooth last?

Well-restored root-filled teeth can last many years. What matters is a tight filling, a stable restoration of the tooth, for example with a crown, and regular check-ups.

Your contacts

  • Dr. medic. stom. (Ro) D. C. Catalin Mihail Dentist
  • Dr. stomat. (Universität Prishtina) Gazmend Spahiu Assistant dentist

Last updated: 22. October 2026

This information does not replace a personal examination and consultation. Whether and how a treatment is right for you is something we discuss with you at the practice.

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