Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure designed to save a severely damaged or infected tooth. This treatment focuses on removing the infected pulp from inside the tooth, cleaning the root canals, and sealing them to prevent further infection. By preserving your natural tooth, root canal treatment helps maintain your oral health and prevents the need for extraction.
To understand root canal treatment, it's essential to know the basic structure of a tooth:
Dental pulp plays a crucial role in tooth development and sensory function. However, once a tooth is fully mature, it can survive without the pulp, as surrounding tissues continue to nourish it.
You might need root canal treatment if you experience:
Untreated cavities can penetrate deep into the tooth, reaching the pulp and causing infection.
Multiple treatments on the same tooth can weaken its structure and lead to pulp inflammation.
Damage to the tooth can expose the pulp to bacteria, resulting in infection.
Your dentist will assess the affected tooth and take X-rays to determine the extent of the damage.
Local anaesthesia is applied to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
A small opening is made in the tooth to access the infected pulp.
Special instruments are used to remove the damaged pulp and clean the root canals.
The canals are thoroughly cleaned and shaped to prepare for filling.
A biocompatible material called gutta-percha is used to fill and seal the canals.
A temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth until a permanent restoration is fitted.
In most cases, a crown is placed to protect the tooth and restore its function.
Fact: Modern techniques and anaesthesia make root canal treatment no more uncomfortable than a routine filling.
Fact: Saving your natural tooth is often the best option for your oral health and is typically less expensive than extraction and replacement.
Fact: There's no scientific evidence linking properly performed root canal treatment to disease elsewhere in the body.
Some mild discomfort is normal for a few days after treatment. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any soreness.
Continue brushing and flossing as usual, being gentle around the treated area.
Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your permanent restoration is in place.
Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and restoration.
While sometimes necessary, extraction can lead to other dental problems and may require more extensive treatment in the future.
If extraction is unavoidable, a dental implant can replace the lost tooth but is generally more costly and invasive than root canal treatment.
Another option after extraction, bridges rely on adjacent teeth for support and may not be suitable in all cases.
Root canal treatment is available on the NHS under Band 2 treatment. Private treatment may offer more flexibility in appointment times and potentially quicker treatment.
NHS charges are set at a fixed rate, while private costs can vary. It's advisable to discuss fees with your dentist before treatment.
For complex cases, your dentist may refer you to a specialist endodontist. You can find registered specialists through the General Dental Council's website.
The British Endodontic Society provides guidelines for best practices in root canal treatment, ensuring high standards of care across the UK.
Root canal treatment is a valuable procedure that can save your natural tooth and alleviate pain. By understanding the process and following proper aftercare, you can ensure the best possible outcome for your oral health. If you're experiencing dental pain or have concerns about your teeth, don't hesitate to consult with a dental professional who can provide personalised advice and treatment options.