Root Canal Treatment
Save your tooth from extraction with modern root canal treatment
What Is Root Canal Treatment?
A root canal is like cleaning out and saving a damaged tooth from the inside. The soft centre of your tooth (pulp) can become infected or inflamed from deep decay, repeated dental work, cracks, or injury.
During treatment, your dentist gently removes the damaged pulp (the nerve and blood vessel tissue inside the tooth), cleans the space, and seals it with a special filling. Think of it like removing a splinter and cleaning the wound. After a root canal, a crown is usually placed on the tooth to protect it and restore its function.
Why Might You Need Root Canal Treatment?
Deep Tooth Decay
When decay reaches the inner pulp of your tooth, it can cause infection and severe pain. Root canal treatment removes the infected tissue and saves the tooth.
- • Advanced cavities
- • Bacterial infection
- • Severe toothache
- • Sensitivity to temperature
Tooth Trauma
Injuries to teeth can damage the pulp even if the tooth appears intact. Root canal treatment can save traumatized teeth from extraction.
- • Sports injuries
- • Falls or accidents
- • Biting hard objects
- • Previous dental work
Repeated Dental Procedures
Multiple fillings or procedures on the same tooth can irritate the pulp. Root canal treatment provides a permanent solution.
- • Multiple fillings
- • Large restorations
- • Cracked fillings
- • Deep drilling
Abscess Formation
An abscess is a pocket of infection that forms at the root of a tooth. Root canal treatment eliminates the infection and prevents it from spreading.
- • Swelling and pain
- • Bad taste or odour
- • Gum tenderness
- • Fever symptoms
What Happens During Root Canal Treatment?
Step 1: Examination & X-rays
Your dentist will examine your tooth and take X-rays to see the extent of the damage and plan the treatment approach.
Step 2: Numbing the Area
Local anaesthetic is applied to ensure you're completely comfortable throughout the procedure. You'll feel a small pinch, then the area will be numb.
Step 3: Isolation & Access
A rubber dam is placed around the tooth to keep it dry and clean, then a small opening is made in the top of your tooth to access the infected pulp chamber and root canals.
Step 4: Cleaning & Shaping
Special instruments are used to remove the infected pulp and clean the inside of the tooth. The canals are shaped to receive the filling material.
Step 5: Filling & Sealing
The cleaned canals are filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha and sealed to prevent reinfection.
Step 6: Restoration
A temporary filling is placed, and you'll return for a crown to protect and restore the treated tooth to full function.
Recovery & Aftercare
After root canal treatment, you can usually return to normal activities the same day. Here's what to expect and how to care for your treated tooth:
Immediate Aftercare
- • Wait for numbness to wear off before eating
- • Avoid chewing on the treated tooth
- • Take pain relief if needed
- • Resume normal brushing and flossing
Long-term Care
- • Return for crown placement
- • Maintain excellent oral hygiene
- • Regular dental check-ups
- • Avoid using treated tooth as a tool
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
Saves Your Natural Tooth
Root canal treatment preserves your natural tooth, maintaining your smile's appearance and preventing the need for extraction and replacement.
- • Maintains natural appearance
- • Preserves jawbone health
- • Avoids extraction surgery
- • Keeps surrounding teeth stable
Eliminates Pain & Infection
The procedure removes the source of pain and infection, providing immediate relief and preventing the spread of infection to other areas.
- • Immediate pain relief
- • Eliminates infection
- • Prevents abscess formation
- • Stops sensitivity issues
Restores Function
After treatment and crown placement, your tooth will function normally, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
- • Normal chewing ability
- • Proper speech function
- • Natural bite alignment
- • Long-term durability
Cost-Effective Solution
Root canal treatment is typically more cost-effective than extraction and replacement, especially when considering long-term dental health.
- • Less expensive than replacement
- • Fewer future procedures
- • Maintains dental insurance benefits
- • Long-term value
How Much Does Root Canal Treatment Cost?
The cost of root canal treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case and the tooth involved. Here's a general guide to UK prices:
NHS Treatment
- • Band 2 treatment: £70.70
- • Covers root canal treatment
- • May require multiple visits
- • Available at NHS practices
Private Treatment
- • Front teeth: £300-£700
- • Premolars: £400-£800
- • Molars: £500-£1,000
- • Crown (additional): £400-£1,200
Note: Prices vary by location and practice. Many practices offer payment plans to help spread the cost. Remember that a crown is usually needed after root canal treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is root canal treatment painful?
Modern root canal treatment is performed under local anaesthetic, so you shouldn't feel pain during the procedure. Any discomfort afterwards is usually mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
How long does root canal treatment take?
Root canal treatment typically takes 1-2 appointments, each lasting 60-90 minutes. The total time depends on the complexity of your case and the number of roots involved.
Will I need a crown after treatment?
Yes, a crown is usually recommended after root canal treatment to protect the weakened tooth and restore it to full function and appearance.
How long will the treated tooth last?
With proper care and a crown, a tooth that has had root canal treatment can last a lifetime. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for long-term success.
What are the alternatives to root canal treatment?
The main alternative is tooth extraction, but this can lead to bone loss, shifting of other teeth, and the need for expensive replacement options like implants or bridges.
Who can perform root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment can be performed by different types of dental professionals:
- General Dentist: Most general dentists can perform straightforward root canal treatments. They have basic training in endodontics.
- Dentist with Special Interest in Endodontics: These dentists have completed additional training and courses in root canal treatment. They can handle more complex cases and may have advanced equipment.
- Specialist Endodontist: These are dentists who have completed 2-3 years of additional specialist training in endodontics. They handle the most complex cases, retreatments, and have access to the latest techniques and equipment like microscopes.
Your general dentist will refer you to a specialist if your case is particularly complex or if they feel you would benefit from specialist care.
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Find a dentistWritten by: Dr Tristan Tinn, Founder and Clinical Director of HelpDental
Last updated: September 25, 2025