Root Canal Treatment: What Really Happens During the Procedure?

Has your dentist told you that a tooth needs a “root canal”? That term can be alarming, especially if you’re imagining something painful or invasive.

In reality, a root canal—also known as endodontic treatment—is a common, precise, and well-controlled procedure that can save an infected tooth instead of having to remove it.

In this article, the team at Rodde & Associés in Schifflange explains exactly what to expect from this treatment, step by step.

Why Does a Tooth Sometimes Need a Root Canal?

A root canal is necessary when the pulp of the tooth (commonly referred to as the “nerve”) is infected, necrotic, or irreversibly inflamed. This can happen due to:

• A deep cavity

• A cracked or fractured tooth

• Trauma

• A hidden infection revealed by X-ray

The goal is to remove the infection while keeping the tooth in place, stable, and functional.

The 8 Steps of a Root Canal, Simply Explained

Here’s how an endodontic procedure typically unfolds:

1. Pre-Endodontic Reconstruction: The dentist begins by rebuilding any missing parts of the tooth to ensure it can be properly sealed during the procedure. A rubber dam, clamp, and frame are placed around the tooth to maintain a sterile and aseptic environment.

   
   

2. Placement of the Dental Dam: A rubber dam, clamp, and frame are placed around the tooth to maintain a sterile and aseptic environment.

   
   

3. Access Cavity: A small opening is made in the center of the tooth to reach the canals that contain the infected tissue.

   
   

4. Shaping: The canals are widened, shaped, and prepared for cleaning using both manual and mechanical files.

   
   

5. Disinfection: The canals are thoroughly rinsed with disinfecting solutions to eliminate bacteria and microorganisms.

   
   

6. Filling the Canals: Once disinfected, the canals are sealed tightly with a special material (gutta-percha and biocompatible cement).

   
   

7. Restoration: The tooth is closed with either a temporary or permanent filling. A crown may be recommended if the tooth is fragile.

   
   

8. Healing: The bone tissue around the root heals naturally over time. Follow-up X-rays are used to monitor healing.

Is the Treatment Painful?

No. Thanks to local anesthesia and modern techniques, root canals are now painless, though they do require precision.Some sessions may take a bit longer but are generally well tolerated.

In Summary

✅ Root canal treatment is a common, safe, and effective procedure

🦷 It saves an infected tooth while eliminating pain and bacteria

⏱ The sooner it’s done, the better it prevents future complications

At Rodde & Associés, we support you at every step of the treatment with clarity and care—so you fully understand what’s being done and why.

📍 Our clinic is located in Schifflange, easily accessible from Dudelange, Kayl, Mondercange, and Esch-sur-Alzette.

📞 Have a question or need advice?Contact us at (+352) 26 74 57 80 or email us at contact@roddeassocies.com