Root canal treatment aims to preserve a tooth suffering from infection or damage, often impacting the pulp: the central part filled with nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue.

When bacteria or trauma damage the pulp tissue, it can lead to pain, infection, and tooth loss if untreated. Root canal treatment removes the infected or damaged pulp, cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent future infection.

Modern Endodontics uses advanced technology, minimally invasive methods, and biocompatible materials to achieve more reliable results for your patients. However, the long-term success of root canal treatment relies heavily on the appropriate tooth restoration after the treatment is completed.

Your referring dentist will receive a recommendation regarding this. You must continue to visit your dentist for general dental care.

Root canal treatment is designed to save a tooth that is infected or damaged.

Treatment Process in Detail:

Root canal treatment is designed to save a tooth that is infected or damaged. Firstly, a local anaesthetic will be administered to ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure. The rubber dam will then be positioned around the tooth, providing an aseptic environment that is fundamental to the cleaning process.

Next, a small access opening will be created in your tooth, and the infected pulp will be removed from within. If you have a dental abscess, we may drain it first. The root canals are then disinfected before being filled with a warmed rubber material to prevent reinfection.

The tooth must then be appropriately restored to ensure the root canal treatment lasts for as long as possible. Adam is happy to provide this restoration or offer advice on it to your referring dentist. The diagram below shows the steps in a typical procedure:

After root canal treatment, following these simple aftercare steps can support your healing and help ensure a successful outcome.

What You Might Feel

It’s completely normal to experience mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days after your treatment. This is a sign your body is healing. Pain relief, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, is usually enough to manage any symptoms.

How to Care for Your Teeth

 Eat Soft Foods

Avoid chewing on the treated side until your permanent crown or filling is in place. Stick to soft, non-sticky food for a few a days.

 Manage Pain Gently

Use over-the-counter painkillers as directed. If we've prescribed medication, be sure to take it exactly as instructed.

 Keep Your Mouth Clean

Brush and floss gently around the area. Keeping your mouth clean helps prevent infection and promotes healing.

 Follow-Up is Essential

A follow-up visit is often needed with your own dentist to place a definitive restoration, such as a crown or onlay. This provides a good seal on the root treatment and reduces the risk of the tooth breaking after the root canal treatment. Failure to do this may result in the root canal treatment failing early. In addition, Adam will arrange a 1-year review to assess healing.

Give us a call if you notice any of the following:

• Persistent or severe pain that doesn’t improve;
• Swelling in the face or around the treated tooth;
• A loose or missing temporary filling or crown;
• Signs of infection, like a fever or a bad taste in your mouth.