What is root canal treatment?
It is treatment for the pulp, the soft tissue inside a tooth that holds nerves and blood vessels. The pulp runs down the roots in thin channels called root canals.
Deep decay, a crack or a knock can let bacteria reach the pulp, which can then cause pain or swelling. During treatment, the affected pulp is removed, and the canals are cleaned and sealed.
Do I need a root canal?
Your dentist can tell you after examining the tooth and taking an X-ray. Signs that the pulp may be affected include:
- toothache that lasts, or wakes you at night
- pain when you bite
- sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the food or drink is gone
- swelling of the gum near a tooth
- a tooth that has turned darker
Sometimes there are no signs, and the problem only shows up on an X-ray.
What should I do if my face is swelling?
WhatsApp or call your clinic as soon as you can during opening hours. If you have severe swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or bleeding that will not stop, go to a hospital emergency department (A&E) or call 995.
What happens during root canal treatment?
It is done in steps, often over more than one visit.
- Your dentist examines the tooth, takes X-rays, and explains the options and the cost.
- The tooth is numbed with a local anaesthetic.
- A small opening is made in the tooth to reach the pulp.
- The canals are cleaned and shaped. Medicine may be placed inside, sealed in with a temporary filling.
- At a later visit, the canals are filled and sealed.
- A treated back tooth often needs a crown to protect it, and your dentist will tell you if yours does.
Does root canal treatment hurt?
The tooth is numbed with a local anaesthetic before treatment starts, in the same way as for a filling.
The tooth may feel sore or tender for a few days afterwards. If you feel discomfort at any point during treatment, raise your hand and your dentist will stop.
How many visits will I need?
Usually one to three visits of about 60 to 90 minutes each, depending on the tooth and how much infection there is. These are estimates; the time and number of visits may vary after your dentist assesses your needs.
Why not just take the tooth out?
Sometimes taking the tooth out makes more sense. But a gap can let nearby teeth drift, and replacing the tooth later with a bridge, implant or denture means more treatment. Your dentist will go through both options with you.
Does CHAS or MediSave cover root canal treatment?
CHAS can help, and so can Flexi-MediSave if you are 60 or older.
Root canal treatment is among the dental services CHAS subsidises for eligible cardholders, within yearly limits. Check the current list on the CHAS website.
For patients aged 60 and above, MOH has announced that Flexi-MediSave can be used for root canal treatment and crowns at CHAS dental clinics. See the MOH website for details and limits.
All three of our clinics take part in CHAS and can make Flexi-MediSave claims.
How much does root canal treatment cost?
It depends on the tooth. Before treatment starts, your dentist tells you the cost, including a crown if the tooth is likely to need one.
How do I book?
WhatsApp or call the clinic nearest you: Ang Mo Kio Ave 10, Ang Mo Kio (Central) or Clementi. Each clinic’s numbers are on our clinics page, or you can send a booking request.
If you have toothache, tell us it is urgent when you get in touch.