Frequently Asked Questions

Most teeth will be suitable for root canal treatment, but there are occasions where the tooth cannot be saved. The tooth needs to have adequate structure and bone support and it must be possible to clean and seal the canals. The overall prognosis of the tooth will be discussed with you prior to the start of any treatment.

The aim of root canal treatment is to save a tooth that would otherwise require removal. It aims to prevent further pain and infection from the area.

An alternative to root canal treatment is extraction of the tooth. However, depending on the location of the tooth, it may lead to a functional or aesthetic problem. This may have to be replaced with a denture, a bridge or an implant by your dentist.

Root canal treatment is a very technically demanding procedure. In order for us to do the treatment to the best of our ability it takes time and patience. Treatment sessions are typically 1 to 1.5 hours long. We will try to make sure you are as comfortable as possible during your treatment

A large proportion of primary (first time) cases can be done in a single visit. However more complex treatments such as retreatments, may require two or more visits.  This will be discussed with you at your consultation.

The treatment is performed under local anaesthetic and the whole process should feel similar to having an ordinary filling. There should be no pain during treatment and we will make every possible effort to ensure your comfort throughout. 

However, it is normal to have some minor discomfort for a few days after the treatment has been completed. This can usually be controlled with over the counter painkillers such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen. 

We will discuss this with you at your consultation. The majority of patients are able to have the treatment with just local anaesthesia. But we are able to arrange intravenous sedation for patients who are particularly anxious and feel they may not be able to cope with more complex procedures.

The cost associated with root canal treatment can vary depending on factors such as which tooth is affected, the amount of damage to the tooth and the time it takes to complete the treatment.  You will be given an itemised treatment plan including costs of all treatment that is required.

In general, endodontic treatment is much less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth.

Endodontic treatment can have success rates of up to 90%.  

The factors affecting the success of root canal treatment include how infected the tooth is, how long the infection has been present and if the tooth has previously been root treated. In some cases despite good treatment, healing may not occur as expected and further endodontic treatment or surgery may be carried out if appropriate. A tooth that develops a crack can also be a cause of failure and may result in loss of the tooth. 

You will referred back to your dentist after your root canal treatment. Usually this is for a crown that needs to be placed on heavily restored teeth to reduce the risk of fracture. On some occasions this may not be necessary

You may be asked to come back for a review after 12 months to check the treatment is working and that there are signs of successful healing. If further treatment if required, you will be informed of this.