What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment (endodontic therapy) removes infected or inflamed pulp tissue from inside the tooth, cleans and shapes the root canals, then seals them with a biocompatible filling material. The tooth is then restored (usually with a crown on back teeth) and functions normally for years.
The aim is to keep the tooth instead of extracting it, because a natural tooth that can be saved is always the best long-term option.
When is root canal treatment needed?
- Deep tooth decay that has reached the pulp
- Dental abscess: infection at the root tip causing swelling or a dental "gum boil"
- Cracked or fractured tooth where bacteria have entered the pulp
- Tooth trauma: injury that has damaged the pulp
- Severe toothache with sensitivity to heat that lingers after the stimulus is removed
What to expect
- Assessment: X-ray or CBCT to assess the root canal anatomy and extent of infection
- Anaesthesia: local anaesthetic makes the tooth completely numb
- Canal treatment: pulp tissue removed, canals cleaned, shaped, and disinfected (typically 45–90 minutes)
- Sealing: canals filled with gutta-percha; temporary or permanent coronal restoration placed
- Final restoration: crown placed at a follow-up appointment to protect the tooth long-term
Root canal treatment for tourists in Naples
Dental pain while visiting Naples? Toothache that prevents eating or sleeping is a dental emergency. Most root canal treatments are completed in one or two appointments. Contact us on WhatsApp: we will schedule you as quickly as possible.
Dr. Michela Marcato focuses on endodontics and uses rotary instruments and electronic apex locators for root canal treatment. Root canal treatment in Naples costs significantly less than equivalent care in the UK, Ireland, the USA, or Northern Europe.
Does root canal treatment hurt?
No. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, which completely numbs the tooth and surrounding tissue. You may feel pressure but not pain during treatment. Any post-treatment sensitivity typically resolves within a few days.
How many appointments does root canal treatment take?
Most cases are completed in one or two appointments. Simple single-canal teeth (incisors, canines) often require just one session. Molars with multiple canals, or cases with active infection requiring staged treatment, may need two. We will give you a clear plan at assessment.
When is root canal treatment necessary?
When the tooth's pulp (the inner nerve and blood supply) becomes irreversibly inflamed or infected, commonly caused by deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the same tooth, a crack, or trauma. Symptoms include persistent toothache, sensitivity to heat, swelling, or a dental abscess.
How long does a root-treated tooth last?
A properly restored root-treated tooth can last many years, often a lifetime. Long-term success depends on the quality of the final restoration (usually a crown on back teeth) and maintaining good oral hygiene.
Can I have root canal treatment while on holiday in Naples?
Yes. Most root canal treatments are completed in one or two appointments. If you're in Naples for a few days, we can assess, treat, and place a good temporary or permanent restoration before you travel. Contact us on WhatsApp and we'll schedule you promptly.
What happens if I don't treat an infected tooth?
The infection can spread to surrounding bone and soft tissue, potentially causing a dental abscess, facial swelling, and in severe cases, serious systemic infection. An infected tooth does not heal on its own: early treatment gives the best outcome and saves the tooth.
Related services
- Emergency dentist Naples: same-day care for severe toothache
- Dental prosthetics: crowns and restorations after root canal treatment
- Cosmetic dentistry: if the tooth also needs aesthetic restoration