Root canal treatment
Save an infected or badly damaged tooth by cleaning and sealing the inside of it.
Typical time: 1–2 visits
The process
What happens
When decay or a crack reaches the soft pulp inside a tooth, it can become inflamed or infected. Root canal treatment removes that pulp, cleans the canals and seals them, so you keep your own tooth instead of losing it.
- 01
Diagnosis
We examine the tooth and take an X-ray to see the roots and any infection.
- 02
Numbing
Local anaesthetic makes the treatment feel much like having a filling.
- 03
Cleaning the canals
The inflamed pulp is removed, and the canals are cleaned and shaped.
- 04
Sealing
The canals are filled and sealed, and the tooth is closed with a filling.
- 05
Protecting the tooth
Back teeth usually need a crown afterwards, because a root-filled tooth can be more brittle.
Questions
Common Questions
Is root canal treatment painful?
The treatment is done under local anaesthetic, so most people find it similar to a filling. It’s usually the infection beforehand that hurts, and the treatment relieves it.
Wouldn’t it be simpler to take the tooth out?
Sometimes extraction is the right choice, but keeping your own tooth is usually better for chewing and for the teeth around it. We’ll explain both options and what each costs.
| Treatment | Typical time |
|---|---|
| Crowns and bridges | 2 visits |
| Emergency dental care | Same visit, then a plan |
| Tooth-coloured fillings | 1 visit |
Book a Visit
Message or call the branch that’s easiest for you to reach, and we’ll confirm a time.
Book a Visit