Root canal treatment, or endontics, is essentially a dental procedure which treats an infection at the centre of a tooth, i.e. the root canal. You may need it because of a leaky filling, in the wake of an event such as a fall, or because of tooth decay, a broken crown, loose fillings or if a tooth has cracked for any other reason. It can save a tooth that may otherwise have to be extracted, and prevent an abscess from forming.
This procedure is needed once bacteria living in the mouth have invaded the tooth, after food debris from beneath the gum has begun to eat away at its soft layers – allowing infection to spread quickly. Once it has reached an area inside called the pulp (a combination of nerves and vessels providing the teeth’s blood supply), your dentist will need to remove the nerve.
Here, we try and answer some of the questions patients most often ask us about this procedure:
- What are the signs and symptoms of needing root canal treatment?
There are a number of these, including facial swelling; or having an abscess which drains into your mouth, leaving a strange taste.
Other symptoms include heightened sensitivity to hot and cold, and a throbbing sensation when you lie down or get up. Sometimes, the infected tooth may look darker than your other teeth, a sign that the nerve is dead or dying.
Finally, your dentist may see a white lump on your gum when they examine you, and this is another clear indicator that you may need root canal treatment.
- What does the treatment actually involve?
Typically, you will need at least two appointments. On the first, any infection is removed, along with the pulp. A hole is drilled in the top of the affected tooth and a sedative dressing is inserted to settle the tooth.
The hole is thoroughly cleaned, irrigated and disinfected. You will also usually be given a temporary filling.
On your second appointment, the space is permanently filled to keep bugs and further food debris at bay.
- Will I need further work on this tooth after the root canal treatment?
Yes; you will need to have a crown fitted, especially if the treatment is on one of your back teeth. The blood supply has been removed, along with the infection, leaving the tooth brittle and fragile. It could snap or break on chewing. Even something simple or soft like bread could cause breakage, which could ultimately cost you the tooth.
Replacement options are available. But, along with many dentists, at Bounty Road Dental we advise a crown after root canal treatment, to protect the tooth against the pressures of eating or grinding after the tooth structure has been weakened.
- How long does root canal treatment take?
As mentioned, you will typically need a couple of appointments to complete the process, potentially more, and usually you will have around a week in between each one, so your dentist can keep an eye on the healing process. Newer techniques and equipment have made treatment more efficient. Most appointments should last between 30 and 60 minutes, and certainly no more than 90 maximum. But let your dentist know if you find it hard to lie or sit for extended periods.
- How painful is this treatment?
Contrary to what you may have feared, the root canal process isn’t painful at all. The worst-case scenario is likely to be some mild discomfort from having your mouth open for longer than you normally would.
You won’t feel anything after the local anaesthetic has been delivered by injection. There should be no more discomfort than with a regular filling.
However, it’s understandable if you feel nervous beforehand – a good dentist will put you at your ease.
- How much does root canal treatment cost?
At Bounty Road Dental, we charge from £350 for the root canal process, covering everything from start to finish. Remember, our monthly membership plan offers you a discount on treatment, allowing you to spread the cost.
- How long does healing take after root canal treatment?
Look after your teeth well post-treatment, chewing carefully and avoiding hard food. You should feel no pain, although your mouth may feel sensitive for a few days. Consider taking over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol if necessary.
Go back to your dentist if swelling or discomfort persist post-treatment, and they may well want to see you anyway for a final check-up, a week or two after the last appointment, to check everything is as it should be.
To keep your mouth at its best, return for regular hygienist appointments and check-ups.
Root canal treatment at Bounty Road Dental
We offer affordably priced root canal treatment to an extremely high standard using the latest equipment. Talk to us today, whether you know you already need this therapy, or want to be assessed for it. We’ll be glad to chat everything through with you ahead of your first appointment.