Root canal treatment
Protect your natural tooth and relieve dental pain with advanced endodontic care. A root canal procedure removes infected or inflamed dental pulp, restores tooth strength, and prevents further damage — all while preserving your natural smile.
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What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment (also known as endodontic therapy) is a dental procedure used to treat infection or damage in the innermost part of the tooth, called the pulp. This soft tissue can become inflamed due to deep decay, trauma, or cracks. If left untreated, it can cause severe pain and lead to tooth loss.
During a root canal, the dentist carefully removes the damaged pulp, cleans and disinfects the canals, then seals the tooth to prevent reinfection. Finally, a crown or filling is placed to restore the tooth’s full function and appearance.
Root canal treatment is perfect if you:
- Experience persistent tooth pain, especially while chewing
- Experience sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
- Notice swelling or tenderness around the gums
- Have a cracked, injured, or decayed tooth
- Need a root canal to avoid extraction and preserve your natural tooth
Root canal treatment offers many benefits, such as:
- Eliminate severe tooth pain and stop the spread of infection
- Save your natural tooth and avoid dental implants or bridges
- Restore chewing function and protect neighbouring teeth
- Maintain the natural shape of your face and smile
- Receive expert dental care in a comfortable, stress-free environment
Root canal treatment: what to expect
Step-by-step endodontic care
- Diagnosis & imaging
We examine the infected tooth and take precise digital X-rays to evaluate the root canal system, the extent of the infection, and any inflammation around the tooth. In complex cases, your dentist may refer you to an endodontist (a root canal specialist). - Anaesthesia & access
Local anaesthetic ensures your root canal procedure is completely pain-free. The dentist creates a small opening in the cavity to access the inner tooth and the inflamed dental pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. - Cleaning & shaping
Using special instruments, the infected pulp and bacteria are removed from the root canal system. The canals are then cleaned, shaped, and fully disinfected to prepare for sealing. In some cases, temporary fillings may be placed if the treatment is completed in multiple visits. - Filling the canals
The empty canals are filled with a biocompatible material to seal them and prevent reinfection — a critical step in successful root canal therapy. - Restoration
A permanent crown or filling is placed to protect and strengthen the tooth, restoring its natural appearance and function. This final step completes the dental treatment and helps maintain long-term oral health.
How much does root canal treatment cost?
| Root Canal Consultation | from £90 |
|---|---|
| Root Canal – Front Tooth | from £675 |
| Root Canal – Premolar | from £695 |
| Root Canal – Molar | from £875 |
| Re-root Canal | from £1000 |
Root canal treatment: frequently asked questions
Is root canal treatment painful?
Not at all. With modern techniques and local anaesthetic, root canals are no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. You may feel slight tenderness afterward, but this passes quickly.
How do I know if I need a root canal from a dentist?
If you’re experiencing persistent pain, swelling, a darkened tooth, or prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, you may need a root canal. Only a professional dentist can confirm with an exam and X-rays.
How long does a dental root canal treatment take?
Most root canal treatments are completed in one or two visits, depending on the complexity of the case and the condition of your tooth.
Will my tooth look natural after endodontic treatment?
Yes. After the root canal, your dentist will restore the tooth with a crown or filling that matches your natural tooth colour — ensuring a seamless, healthy-looking smile.
What happens to the dental pulp if I delay root canal treatment?
Delaying endodontic treatment can allow infection to spread beyond the pulp, causing complications like abscess formation, bone loss, or even complete tooth loss. Early intervention helps protect your dental health and avoid further pain.
How long does a root canal treatment last?
A successfully treated tooth can last a lifetime with proper care. Most root canals have a success rate of over 90%, though the tooth may eventually require a crown to protect it from fracturing.
