With proper anaesthesia and modern technique, most patients find the procedure far less uncomfortable than they expected — often less painful than the toothache that brought them in. The reputation is considerably worse than the reality.
In suitable cases, yes. Whether a single sitting root canal is possible depends on the condition of the tooth, the severity of the infection, and the complexity of the canal anatomy. We'll assess your case and be clear about what's realistic.
Persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold that doesn't settle, swelling, pain while chewing, and deep decay are the main indicators. An X-ray usually confirms what's going on inside the tooth.
A properly treated and restored tooth — especially one protected with a crown — can last many years with good oral hygiene and regular check-ups. There's no fixed expiry date; it depends on how well it's looked after.
For back teeth that take heavy chewing load, a crown is strongly recommended. It protects the tooth from fracturing, which is a real risk once the pulp has been removed. Your dentist will advise based on which tooth was treated and how much structure remains.
