Root Canal Treatment

Root canal therapy (or endodontics) involves removing infected pulp from the innermost part of the tooth. This prevents the infection from spreading and can help save a tooth that may otherwise have to be extracted.

The pulp is made up of soft tissue, including nerves and blood vessels, and extends from the crown to the tips of the root. The pulp can become infected due to decay, a deep filling or trauma to the tooth. Symptoms can include pain, increased sensitivity to temperature, discolouration, a metallic taste, gum tenderness or swelling.

Benefits

Treatment steps

Root canal therapy usually requires several appointments, the number will depend on which type of tooth is being treated. Between appointments, the tooth will be covered and temporarily restored.

Although root canal therapy has a reputation for being painful, the procedure should be no more uncomfortable than having a normal filling.

Aftercare

If looked after properly, with regular brushing and flossing, your root canal treated tooth should stay trouble-free and provide a long lasting repair. Even though the pulp has been removed, the tooth will stay intact because the canals have been sealed to prevent re-infection. Regular check-ups are also recommended so any problems can be detected early.

Testimonials

When I first went to Graham I was petrified of dentists. Now, not only do I have a fantastic smile that I am proud of for the first time in my life, I actually look forward to going to see him and his team who have been fabulous to me and have helped to build my confidence in more ways than one. Lovely people and a talented dentist - funny too! Rachel Baker
Last year I found I required four root canal fillings. I was terrified of what lay ahead; I had heard such horror stories that panic set in. I can honestly say that I found the root canal fillings totally painless and Giles was superb. He explained everything to me in detail and allayed my fears. He even had a DVD player with a screen on the ceiling so I watched the test match and also films of my choice whilst having the work done. After the anaesthetic wore off, I had only minimal discomfort that was relieved by simple analgesia. All the staff at LHDP Smilecare have been wonderful throughout my year of extensive treatment and I can honestly say I no longer dread going to the dentist. Jo Mitchell
Thank you for all the excellent treatment, i.e. Implants, titanium bridge and crowns. I truly am delighted and you really have given me back my smile. Thank you once again Diane Cocks
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