Patient Education

Mia is a health-tech company revolutionizing dental care. We bring general dentistry to your doorstep and make orthodontics affordable with Mia Aligners.

Patient Education

Mia is a health-tech company revolutionizing dental care. We bring general dentistry to your doorstep and make orthodontics affordable with Mia Aligners.

Patient Education
Mia Healthcare

Saving Your Smile: The Power of Root Canal Therapy with Dr. Essop

Article by Dr. Masoodah Essop • Reviewed by Dr. Petra van der Merwe•
Date: 10 September 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

At Dr. Essop's practice, we believe in preserving your natural smile whenever possible. While the phrase "root canal" might sometimes conjure up apprehension, it's actually a highly effective and often pain-relieving procedure designed to save a damaged tooth from extraction. Far from being a dreaded experience, modern root canal therapy is a sophisticated treatment that can alleviate pain, eliminate infection, and allow you to keep your tooth for many years to come.

All teeth have a central pulp center. This pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, extending from the crown of your tooth down to the tips of the roots. When this pulp becomes inflamed or infected, often due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, a crack or chip in the tooth, or even trauma, it can cause significant pain and lead to an abscess if left untreated.

Symptoms that might indicate the need for a root canal include:
  • Severe toothache pain upon chewing or application of pressure.
  • Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, even after the source of heat or cold has been removed.
  • Discoloration of the tooth due to trauma to the tooth.
  • Swelling and tenderness in the gums surrounding the affected tooth.
  • A persistent or recurring pimple-like bump on the gums.

Appointment One: Removal and Disinfection of the Pulp Chamber

The infected or inflamed pulp is removed, and the pulp chamber and root canal system are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.

Appointment Two: Filling and Sealing

The tooth is checked for symptoms; the pulp chamber and root canal system is further disinfected and then if the tooth is asymptomatic, the root canal system is filled and sealed. This appointment is usually done two weeks after the first initial appointment.

Appointment 3: Restoration

A semi-permanent restoration is placed in composite to protect and restore it to its full function. This appointment is usually done four weeks after the previous appointment. Depending on the tooth and how damaged it was, Dr. Essop may recommend placement of a crown to further protect the treated tooth.

Note: In cases where infection is not suspected, a single visit root canal treatment may be an option.

Opting for root canal therapy with Dr. Essop offers a multitude of benefits:

  • Pain Relief: The primary benefit is the immediate and lasting relief from the often excruciating pain caused by an infected tooth.
  • Saves Your Natural Tooth: This is perhaps the most significant advantage. Keeping your natural tooth prevents the need for extraction, which can lead to other issues like shifting teeth, difficulty chewing, and the need for more complex and costly replacements like implants or bridges.
  • Maintains Chewing Efficiency: A restored natural tooth functions just like your other teeth, allowing you to continue enjoying your favorite foods without discomfort.
  • Protects Adjacent Teeth: By preventing the need for extraction, root canal therapy helps maintain the alignment of your surrounding teeth and your natural bite.
  • Aesthetically Pleasing: With a custom-made crown, your treated tooth will blend seamlessly with your other teeth, maintaining the beauty of your smile.
  • Cost-Effective in the Long Run: While there's an initial investment, saving your natural tooth through root canal therapy is often more cost-effective over time than extracting it and replacing it with an artificial alternative.

Gone are the days when root canals were considered a painful ordeal. With advancements in dental technology and techniques, coupled with Dr. Essop's gentle approach and expertise, the procedure is now highly efficient and comfortable. We prioritize your comfort throughout the entire process, using local anesthesia to ensure a pain-free experience. Many patients describe the sensation as no more uncomfortable than a routine filling.

If you're experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, or if you've been told you might need a root canal, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Essop. She will conduct a thorough examination, including X-rays, to accurately diagnose your condition and discuss the best treatment options for your individual needs.

Don't let fear or misinformation prevent you from saving your smile. Contact Dr. Essop's practice today to learn more about root canal therapy and how we can help you achieve optimal oral health and a confident, pain-free smile!

Warmly,

Your Friendly Neighbourhood Dentist

Dr. M. Essop

BDS(Wits) PGDip(UP)

Frequently Asked Questions