Root Canal Treatment

Frequently asked questions about root canal treatment

What is root canal treatment, and why do I need it?

Dental trauma such as cracks in the tooth, tooth decay, repeated dental procedure on faulty crowns can cause inflammation or infection of the pulp inside the tooth. When root canal treatment or Endodontics comes into play, the inflamed of affected pulp is removed, and then the inside of that tooth cleaned and carefully disinfected. When this is done, the tooth is filled and sealed with a material with a rubber-like texture known as gutta-percha. After this, a crown or filling is added to the tooth for restoration and for increased protection.

If an endodontic or root canal treatment is not carried out on time, the inflammation can lead to severe pain, abscess, and worse, extraction of the infected tooth.

Why will I need a root canal treatment when I don’t feel any pain?

The fact that you don’t experience any pain does not mean your teeth may not be infected. Some people may experience a mild toothache, which goes away after some antibiotics treatment. However, it is only an endodontist that will prove if your pulps are affected or not.Through clinical examination and routine radiography, it will be determined whether or not your pulps are infected. Besides performing root canal treatment, an endodontist will examine findings from radiography and clinical examination to determine whether or not you need root canal treatment.

Why do I need to see an endodontist?

Endodontists are dental specialists who have undergone specialised training in a dental school for two or more years. It is an endodontist who will clarify whether or not you need root canal treatment through the use of their state of the art technology like fibre optics, operating microscopes, digital imaging and ultrasonic instrumentation.

How long does it take for a root canal treatment to be completed?

Depending on the details of your case with regards to the procedure, it can take about an hour or two for treatment to be completed. Usually, in just one visit, your treatment will be complete; however, you may be required to come in again for a second visit.

How painful is the treatment?

The use of modern and advanced technology and techniques by endodontists have made the procedure virtually pain free. Although some individuals might felt slight discomfort, most people reported not feeling any pain during the treatment.

Is it better to have my tooth extracted?

The main job or duty of dentists and dental specialists is to preserve and save your natural teeth. An artificial tooth will not feel natural and can affect your eating of certain foods. With Endodontic treatment, the affected pulp is removed, tooth filled and crowned, giving you the chance to use your natural tooth much longer. In the end, good dental habits and hygiene is the best way to ensure healthy and safe teeth.

How much does it cost to get a root canal treatment?

The prices or costs for a root canal treatment is dependent on the endodontist you visit. The position or type of tooth affected can also play a role in determining the cost of getting a root canal treatment. However, the price for a root canal treatment ranges from £450 – £1000 for canine and incisor tooth, £650 – £1,100 for premolar tooth and £750 – £1,200 for molars.

What happens after the treatment?

After your root canal treatment has been completed and assessed by the dentist, your dentist will help you decide if either full or partial crown will be better for the protection of your tooth.