Root Canal Treatment (RCT) The dread of the dentist’s drill is only rivalled by the reputation of a Root Canal Treatment (RCT). Tooth decay or dental caries is usually treated by cleaning the decayed material and replacing it with a suitable filling material. However, if the decay has reached down and damaged the nerve of the tooth then a root canal treatment is advised to save the tooth. Root canal treatment or endodontic therapy involves removing the pulp of the tooth, replacing it with an inert material, which is overlaid with a sealing material, and a crown may also be placed above. A root canal contains the pulp, which consists of nervous and vascular tissue which make the tooth ‘live’. The dentist drills through to access the root canal. The pulp is then cleaned out by root canal files. It is decontaminated by irrigation solutions. The cavity is then sealed with a temporary filling until the next sitting. There are usually three to four sittings for the entire procedure to be complete. The root canals are filled with inert bio-compatible plastic material like Gutta Percha. This is overlaid with a regular cement filling. Sometimes a crown is fitted to improve the prognosis of the tooth. Removal of the pulp does not mean that the tooth is ‘dead’. The tooth continues to receive nourishment from the surrounding tissues and supporting jaw bone. Patients tend to be anxious about the pain of the procedure. The pain can be controlled by the administration of anaesthetic, both before or after the procedure. Painkillers can also be subsequently taken if pain persists during the healing process. A listing of reputed endodontists – those who specialize in root canalling - can be viewed on our website.