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Root Canal Treatment

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Eliminate pain and infection in your teeth

Root canal treatment, also known as endodontics, involves removing infected tissue from the innermost part of your tooth. This prevents the infection from spreading and can save your tooth from having to be taken out. Root canal treatment is a very effective way to return your tooth to full function once more.

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What does root canal treatment involve?

Root canal treatment may require more than one session, depending on how severe your dental problem is and the type of tooth in question. Between appointments, your tooth will be covered and temporarily restored.

We first 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 in more detail what is involved at each stage.

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.

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 most cases, we’ll recommend a crown or partial crown to reinforce the tooth and prevent potential fractures. This will also restore the tooth’s natural shape and function, providing a beautiful and durable solution.

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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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When is root canal treatment needed?

In the centre of your tooth, there is a canal containing blood vessels and nerves called pulp. Each tooth can have one or more root canals, and your back teeth may have three or more. The pulp in your tooth can become infected with bacteria if your tooth becomes damaged due to decay, injury, trauma, gum disease or loose fillings.

If the pulp becomes infected, it needs to be removed to avoid the infection spreading. We do all we can to save your natural tooth and avoid the need for extraction. If root canal treatment is needed, 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 maintain a consistent brushing and flossing routine. Root filled teeth are still prone to decay, so need to be cared for properly to avoid cavities and other issues developing.

Will my tooth remain problem-free after endodontic treatment?

With proper care, including regular brushing and flossing, your root canal-treated tooth should remain healthy and provide long-lasting relief. While the pulp is removed, the tooth’s structure is preserved by sealing the canals to prevent reinfection. Regular dental check-ups are recommended to detect any potential issues early on.

Does root canal treatment hurt?

Although root canal treatment has a reputation for being painful, it often is not as bad as expected. The procedure is typically no more uncomfortable than a routine filling, and you will likely experience significant pain relief once the infection has been removed from your tooth.

How long will my root-treated tooth last?

With proper care, your root-treated tooth can function well for many years. In some cases, repeat treatment may be needed, but this is relatively rare.

Are there any alternatives to endodontic treatment?

The only alternative to root canal treatment is tooth extraction, which eliminates pain and infection. We strive to preserve natural teeth whenever possible, as extraction can lead to additional costs for replacement procedures. In some cases, extraction may be necessary, but we will discuss all options with you.

Appointments 01420 550 616