Root Canal
Treatment
in Singapore

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to treat infection or inflammation inside a tooth. The affected area is the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels within the tooth and root canals.

During the procedure, the dentist removes the inflamed or infected pulp, cleans and seals the root canals, then restores the tooth with a filling or crown where appropriate to protect its structure and function.

The aim of root canal treatment is to preserve the natural tooth where possible. If the tooth cannot be restored, extraction and replacement options may be discussed instead.

Root canal treatment may be considered when the pulp inside a tooth becomes inflamed, infected or damaged. Common signs include:

• Persistent or severe toothache
• Pain when biting or chewing
• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
• Swelling, tenderness or discharge around the gum
• A pimple-like bump on the gum near the affected tooth
• Darkening or discolouration of a tooth
• Pain after a crack, chip or dental injury

These symptoms do not always mean root canal treatment is needed. A dental assessment helps determine the underlying cause and the most appropriate treatment.

1. The dentist may take an X-ray to assess the tooth, its roots and the surrounding tissues, and to help plan treatment.
2. Local anaesthesia is used to numb the area and minimise discomfort during treatment. You may still feel some pressure.
3. A small rubber sheet (called a rubber dam) is placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free from saliva and bacteria.
4. The dentist makes a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the infected pulp.
5. Using very fine instruments, the dentist removes the damaged or infected pulp from inside the tooth and root canals.
6. The empty canals are cleaned, disinfected and shaped so they can be properly filled.
7. The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to keep bacteria out.
8. A temporary or permanent filling may be placed to seal the tooth. Depending on the tooth and the amount of remaining tooth structure, a crown or other permanent restoration may subsequently be recommended.

A dental crown protects a tooth after root canal treatment by covering the remaining tooth structure, helping reduce the risk of fracture while restoring its shape and biting function. It is more commonly recommended for molars and premolars that are exposed to greater chewing forces, or for teeth that have lost a significant amount of structure due to decay, cracks or previous fillings.

In some cases, a filling may be sufficient if enough healthy tooth structure remains and the tooth is not exposed to heavy chewing forces.

Whether a crown is recommended depends on factors such as the location of the tooth, the amount of remaining tooth structure and your bite. If required, it is usually placed after root canal treatment has been completed.

An infected or inflamed tooth can cause persistent pain and, if left untreated, may lead to further damage. Root canal treatment removes the source of infection while preserving the natural tooth where appropriate, helping restore comfort, function and long-term oral health.

At PKWY Dental Specialist Practice, treatment begins with a thorough assessment to determine the most appropriate approach. Dr Michele Chia, a general dentist with a special interest in endodontics and advanced training in root canal treatment, has extensive experience managing a wide range of endodontic conditions.

If you are experiencing persistent tooth pain or have been advised to undergo root canal treatment, contact us today to arrange a consultation.