Root Canal Treatment

Saving your natural teeth from pain and infection

Root canal treatment (or endodontics) involves removing infected pulp from the innermost part of the tooth. This prevents the infection from spreading and can help save a tooth that may otherwise have to be extracted. Root canal treatment is a very effective way to save your natural tooth and return it to full function once more.

Why have root canal treatment?

Can save an infected tooth from extraction

Removes a source of infection that could spread to other areas

Prevents further problems that could be caused by losing a tooth

Relieves pain and toothache

Less expensive than replacing a lost tooth

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What does root canal treatment involve?

Diagnosis

Firstly, we take an X-ray to accurately check the root canals of your tooth and make sure there are no signs of infection in the surrounding bone. We plan your treatment, letting you know of each stage.

Flush & clean

We place a rubber sheet around your tooth to keep it dry during treatment. We carefully remove the infected pulp, using local anaesthetic to minimise your discomfort. We then flush the root canals with an antibacterial solution to thoroughly clean them.

Shape & fill

We use special tiny instruments to shape the root canals before washing them again to remove any lasting debris. We then fill them with a rubber compound material to seal the tooth and prevent any bacteria from entering and causing further infection. The treated root canal is sealed with a permanent filling. In some cases, we may need to use a crown to help restore tooth shape and functionality for a natural looking finish.

When is root canal treatment needed?

The dental pulp within your tooth is made up of soft tissue, including nerves and blood vessels, and extends from the crown to the tips of the root. If the pulp becomes infected, due to decay, trauma, or a deep filling, it needs to be removed to avoid the issue spreading and to save your natural tooth. You may experience symptoms including pain, sensitivity, discolouration, swelling, a metallic taste or gum tenderness.

Frequently asked questions

How do I look after my tooth following endodontic treatment?

The best way to look after your tooth following endodontic treatment is to keep up with a regular brushing and flossing routine. Root filled teeth are still prone to decay, so need to be cared for properly.

Will my tooth stay problem-free after root canal surgery?

If looked after properly, with regular brushing and flossing, your root canal treated tooth should stay trouble-free and provide a long lasting repair. Even though the pulp has been removed, the tooth will stay intact because the canals have been sealed to prevent re-infection. Regular check-ups are also recommended so any problems can be detected early.

Will root canal treatment hurt?

Although root canal treatment has a reputation for being painful, it is often nowhere near as bad as you are expecting! The procedure should be no more uncomfortable than having a normal filling, and you will likely feel great relief once you are no longer in pain from the infection.

How long will my root treated tooth last?

If it is properly cared for, your root treated tooth should function well for many years and cause no issues. In some cases, the treatment may need to be repeated, but this is rare.

Are there any alternatives to endodontic treatment?

The only alternative to endodontic treatment is to have the affected tooth removed, thus eliminating the pain and infection. We try to avoid this, as it is much better for you to keep your natural tooth. An extraction also incurs additional costs relating to filling the gap left in your smile. Occasionally, removing the tooth is inevitable, but we will talk to you about your options in full.