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Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment (also referred to as endodontic treatment) is a procedure that treats an infected nerve located inside the tooth. When successful, root canal treatment can eliminate the need for a tooth extraction, and protects the tooth from further infections.

What conditions require root canal treatment?

A tooth can become infected and require a root canal if:

  • A tooth’s nerve has become irreversibly damaged and can’t heal itself.
  • The nerve of a tooth has become infected.
  • The nerve of a tooth has died.
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What is the treatment process?

A root canal can require up to 2 or more appointments and if the work needed is especially complex, you may be referred to a specialist, known as an endodontist, or to a dentist with a special interest in root canal treatments.

Once your dentist has carefully examined the affected tooth, X-rays are taken so the extent of the damage can be determined. Root canal treatment is generally carried out under local anaesthetic, which will numb the tooth and area of gum around it.

The next stage is to clean out the space inside the tooth which is occupied by the nerve, using very fine instruments and antibacterial solutions. The area is then filled with a rubber-like substance that will act like a permanent bandage, protecting the tooth from future infection.

A crown is considered to be the most appropriate restoration after a root canal, strengthening the tooth and reducing the risk of cracks and damage thereafter. As the root canal treated tooth will have discoloured to become a dull grey colour, a crown can mask this to achieve a more desirable look. Alternatively, teeth whitening, veneers or composite bonding treatment can be used to improve discolouration once the tooth has settled after undergoing root canal treatment.

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What alternatives are there to a root canal treatment?

The most common alternative to root canal treatment is to extract the infected tooth, and replace it with an implant, denture or bridge – it’s worth saying that this is always a last resort for dentists, as the goal is always to save your tooth. There are other specialist procedures and surgical treatment that can be performed if a patient’s canal anatomy is particularly complex. Before any treatment takes place, we will talk you through the options available to you, depending on the condition of the tooth in question.

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What should I do after a root canal treatment?

After your treatment, we will provide you with clear aftercare instructions to take home with you, and answer any questions you may have. Over-the-counter pain medication is recommended to control any pain you may feel in the days afterwards, and we suggest avoiding particularly hot or cold foods which may render the area painful or sensitive. We also recommend avoiding hard or tough foods, as the tooth will be brittle. Get plenty of rest and contact us if you experience any swelling or pus around the area.

Long term aftercare involves brushing your teeth twice a day for 2 minutes, eating a healthy diet, regularly visiting the hygienist and dentist, and quitting smoking if you’re a smoker.

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What are the complications of a root canal treatment?

In the majority of cases, root canal treatment is very successful.

This said, on rare occasions the following complications can occur:

  • Failing to fit a crown swiftly enough after the procedure can result in the tooth breaking.
  • Root fracture, as a result of pre-existing cracks that were too small to see.
  • Infection of the tooth during treatment.
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How long does a root canal-treated tooth last?

In 90% of instances where a root canal has been performed by a specialist endodontist, a tooth can survive for up to 10 years after treatment. To make sure you get the best out of treatment with a root canal, you should follow the aftercare instructions mentioned above.

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How much does a root canal treatment cost?

In the U.K, the average cost of a root canal falls in the region of £270 – £850 depending on the complexity of the case.

Please see our Price List for more information on how much a root canal costs at Quality Dental.

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