Root Canal Therapy

Treatment to address infection or damage within a tooth's pulp, with the aim of relieving symptoms and preserving the natural tooth where possible. Our team can assess your dental concerns, explain suitable treatment options and help you understand the next steps for your oral health.

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Dentist treating a smiling patient with a diagram of a root canal

When Might You Need Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy may be recommended in situations such as:

  • Deep Tooth Decay: Decay that reaches the pulp inside the tooth.
  • Persistent Toothache: Ongoing or recurring pain that may indicate pulp inflammation or infection.
  • Dental Infection: Infection affecting the inner tissues of the tooth.
  • Cracked or Damaged Tooth: Certain cracks or injuries that affect the pulp.
  • Sensitivity That Persists: Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold that requires further assessment.

Symptoms can have different causes, so a dental examination is needed to determine the appropriate treatment.

Dental professional holding a tooth model showing the inner pulp
Smiling dental professional holding a tooth model

Benefits of Root Canal Therapy

  • Helps Relieve Symptoms: Treats the affected tissue that may be causing dental pain.
  • Preserves Your Natural Tooth: May allow you to retain a tooth that would otherwise require extraction.
  • Addresses Infection: Removes affected pulp tissue and helps reduce the risk of ongoing infection.
  • Restores Tooth Function: A suitable final restoration can help the tooth function during everyday biting and chewing.
  • Supports Oral Health: Appropriate treatment and follow-up care help maintain the treated tooth.

Treatment outcomes depend on the tooth's condition, the extent of infection or damage and the restoration provided.

The Root Canal Treatment Process

01

Examination and Assessment

Your dentist examines the affected tooth and may take dental X-rays to assess the roots and surrounding structures.

02

Cleaning the Tooth

With appropriate local anaesthesia, the affected pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and shaped.

03

Sealing the Root Canal

The cleaned space is filled and sealed with suitable dental materials to help prevent bacteria from re-entering.

04

Final Restoration

A filling or crown may be recommended to restore the tooth's strength, shape and function, depending on how much tooth structure remains.

Illustration of a root canal procedure showing dental instruments inside a tooth
Smiling patient in a dental chair with aftercare icons and a root canal tooth illustration

Recovery and Aftercare

Caring for Your Tooth After Treatment

Some tenderness around the treated tooth may occur for a short time after root canal therapy. Your dentist will provide aftercare advice based on your treatment.

  • Follow the aftercare instructions provided by your dental professional.
  • Take any recommended medication only as directed.
  • Avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth until your dentist advises it is safe.
  • Maintain regular brushing and flossing.
  • Attend follow-up visits to complete or review your restoration.
  • Contact your dental practice if pain worsens, swelling develops or symptoms do not improve as expected.

Seek urgent medical help if you develop difficulty breathing or swallowing, or significant swelling of the face or neck.

Ready to Take Care of Your Smile?

Whether you're due for a routine appointment or would like to discuss a dental concern, our team is here to help.

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