What Is a Root Canal and Does It Hurt?
Understanding Root Canals
A root canal is a dental procedure designed to treat infection or damage inside a tooth. When the soft tissue (pulp) inside your tooth becomes infected, it can cause pain, swelling, and eventually lead to tooth loss if not treated.
At Dental Solutions Kampala, we perform root canals to remove the infection, relieve pain, and save your natural tooth avoiding the need for extraction.
Why You Might Need a Root Canal
You may need a root canal if you have:
- Persistent toothache or throbbing pain
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
- Swelling in the gums near the affected tooth
- A cracked or severely decayed tooth
- A darkened or discoloured tooth
How the Procedure Works
A root canal typically involves the following steps:
- Diagnosis & X-rays – We examine the tooth and take an X-ray to see the extent of the damage.
- Local Anaesthesia – The area around the tooth is numbed to keep you comfortable.
- Cleaning the Root Canal – We remove the infected pulp tissue and clean the inside of the tooth.
- Filling & Sealing – The cleaned canal is filled with a special material to prevent reinfection.
- Restoration – In most cases, a crown is placed to strengthen and protect the tooth.
Does a Root Canal Hurt?
This is one of the biggest concerns patients have. Thanks to modern dental techniques and anaesthesia, a root canal is no more painful than getting a filling.
In fact, the procedure actually relieves pain caused by the infection. After the treatment, you may feel some mild soreness for a few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Recovery and Aftercare
- Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your dentist places a permanent crown.
- Maintain good oral hygiene — brush twice a day, floss daily, and rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Keep up with your follow-up appointments at Dental Solutions Kampala.
Why Choose Dental Solutions Kampala for Your Root Canal?
- Experienced dentists who focus on patient comfort
- Modern equipment for accurate diagnosis and gentle treatment
- Affordable, transparent pricing
- Convenient location in Kampala
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does a root canal take?
A: Usually 1–2 visits, each lasting 30–90 minutes depending on the complexity.
Q: Is it better to pull the tooth instead?
A: In most cases, saving your natural tooth is the best option for your oral health and function.
Q: How long will the treated tooth last?
A: With proper care, a root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime.
Book Your Consultation Today
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or suspect you might need a root canal, don’t wait — early treatment can save your tooth and prevent more serious issues.
📞 Call Dental Solutions Kampala at 0709966946