01 / BEFORE
Assessment and options
We discuss symptoms, medical history, examination findings, any indicated imaging and alternatives, including not proceeding with treatment.
Your appointment
What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment aims to manage infection or inflammation within a tooth by cleaning, disinfecting and sealing its root canal system. Whether treatment is suitable depends on the diagnosis and the tooth’s overall prognosis.
02 / DURING
Comfort-focused care
Local anaesthetic is generally used. A dental dam is commonly used to isolate the tooth during root canal treatment.
03 / AFTER
Restoration and review
The tooth may require a definitive filling or crown. Follow-up and ongoing care are important to its long-term prognosis.
Treatment options
Primary treatment and retreatment
First-time root canal treatment
May be considered when a tooth’s pulp is inflamed or infected and the tooth is suitable for preservation.
Root canal retreatment
May be considered when a previously root-treated tooth develops persistent or recurrent disease. Complexity and prognosis vary.
Common questions
Patient FAQs
Will it hurt?
Local anaesthetic is normally used to make treatment as comfortable as possible. Some tenderness afterwards can occur. Tell your clinician about pain or concerns.
How long will my appointment take?
Appointment length and the number of visits depend on the tooth and case complexity. Your clinician will explain the expected plan.
Will treatment save my tooth?
Root canal treatment aims to preserve a tooth, but no outcome can be guaranteed. Restorability, infection, anatomy and the final restoration all affect prognosis.
Do I need a crown afterwards?
Some teeth, especially heavily restored back teeth, may benefit from cuspal coverage. Your dentist will discuss the appropriate definitive restoration.
How much will treatment cost?
An endodontic assessment starts from £75 and is charged separately. Treatment prices vary by tooth and complexity; see the full fee schedule.
What should I do if I have swelling or severe pain?
Do not use the website demo form. Contact your dentist or an appropriate urgent dental service promptly. Seek emergency medical help for breathing or swallowing difficulties.
Your appointment
What to expect
Treatment is provided under local anaesthetic; sedation is not offered. Most root canal treatment appointments last approximately 90–120 minutes, although the duration varies with the tooth and complexity. Some cases require more than one appointment.
After your root canal treatment
You will receive written postoperative instructions after your appointment. Mild tenderness when biting can occur for several days. Avoid chewing until the local anaesthetic has worn off, and avoid hard foods on the treated tooth until it has been appropriately restored. If a temporary restoration has been placed, arrange definitive restoration as advised. Over-the-counter pain relief may help if suitable for you; follow your clinician’s advice and the medicine instructions.
Contact the practice if pain worsens, swelling develops or a temporary restoration is lost. Seek urgent medical attention for swelling affecting breathing or swallowing.
Appointments are available following a referral from your dentist.