Root Canal treatment (endodontics) is needed when the pulp (blood/nerve supply) of a tooth is infected through decay or injury.

Why is root canal treatment needed?

When the pulp becomes contaminated with bacteria then the infection spreads through the root canal system of the tooth and is usually associated with considerable pain. This may eventually lead to a dental abscess. Root canal treatment helps to get rid of this infection and prevents any recurrence of the infection.

Does it hurt?

No. A local anesthetic is used and it should feel no different to having an ordinary filling.

What does it involve?

The aim of the treatment is to remove all infection from the root canal. The root canal is cleaned and shaped so that it can be filled with an inert material to prevent

re-contamination. Most courses of treatment will involve two or more visits. Root canal treatment is a skilled and time consuming procedure and in order to be successful it needs to be highly accurate. We carry out this procedure using rubber dam isolation ( a rubber sheet placed around the tooth to maintain an aseptic environment) and the dentist uses special magnifying lenses with enhanced illumination to enable him to see clearly the fine and narrow root canals. This helps us to carry out this procedure to a high degree of accuracy and helps us to achieve high levels of success. At the first appointment, the infected pulp is removed. The root canal is then cleaned and shaped ready for the filling. A temporary filling is placed in the tooth along with an antiseptic dressing to allow the tooth to decontaminate thoroughly. At the next visit the tooth is checked and if the infection has cleared, the root canals are filled with an inert material called gutta percha (rubber like material). Small x-rays are taken to check the accuracy of the root filling.

Is root treatment expensive?

In comparison with routine fillings, yes, a root filling is more expensive. This is because it is a time consuming process, if it is carried out to a high standard.

What if I don't have the treatment?

The alternative is to have the tooth taken out. Once the pulp is infected it cannot heal and it is not recommended to leave an infected tooth in the mouth.

Will the tooth be safe after the treatment?

Yes. However, for a back tooth it is usually better to provide extra support for the root treated tooth in the form of a crown. A front tooth, providing it is not too badly broken down, can generally be filled with a conventional white filling.