We have all heard people talking about root canals: Well teeth are made of three materials the outer strong and hard Enamel, the softer inner Dentine which contains the ends of the nerves (making it sensitive) and then at the core of the tooth is the pulp or nerve. This part of the tooth has a blood supply and a nerve supply. It is an extremely complex area which provides us with feelings of pressure, heat and cold sensations which can be useful in protecting the tooth from damage and telling us when there is a problem.
Opening Hours | |
---|---|
Mon - Fri | 8:00am - 6:00pm |
Sat | 8:00am - 5:15pm |

What is a Root Canal?
Problems which activate the nerve are things like exposed root (sensitivity), cracks in the tooth, trauma to the tooth and decay. An exposed root can generally be calmed by sensitive toothpaste. A crack can be supported by a filling, crown or onlay. If the crack goes right through the nerve the tooth will generally need to be removed. But on some occasions the tooth can be saved. As decay moves into the tooth it gets closer to nerve and this makes pain or sensitivity. As this pain worsens and maybe a dentist has tried a filling or other treatment; that’s when you need to know about root canals. So contact us to talk about your problem!
A root canal is basically the area at the centre of the tooth which houses the nerve and it goes right down the centre of each root. As we are all different some teeth will have extra nerves. For example a molar has 3 roots and may have 5 root canals inside. When the nerve goes wrong like deep decay is causing lots of pain that’s when a root canal may be needed. The Root Canal can also mean the treatment needed to treat the problem: thus root canal is both the area with the problem and the name of the treatment.
What Is A Root Canal Procedure?
This covers treatment needed to stop pain and infection that’s coming from inside the root canal. When the decay and its bacteria reach the nerve they spread rapidly and cause pain (sometimes trauma and decay can cause the tooth to die with no pain, so your dentist will always check the tooth is ok with some simple tests and an x-ray prior to bigger treatments). If the tests, symptoms or x-ray show the tooth has unhealthy, infected or dead root canal, this area can be cleansed, sterilised and sealed to stop infection coming back and thus mean you can keep your tooth.
When considering a root canal procedure your general dentist or dentist with a special interest in root canal will go through all the options with you, how successful the treatments will be and the costs. Thus leaving you in the driving seat to decide the best way forward. To discuss your options contact us and speak to our specialist team today.
Why Have A Root Canal?
You get to keep your tooth and thus maintain your bite, speech, eating capacity and the appearance (some root canal teeth will darken, but there are options to help stop and reverse this). Root canal procedures if done early enough can help reduce the darkening of the tooth. Research shows if at all possible it is always best to try and save your tooth. But there’s always other options like implants, bridges and dentures if this is not possible.
What Is The Root Canal of the Tooth?
The area inside the tooth which can get infected and the area where treatment can be done to fix the problem. We use the most modern techniques and have the latest training to remove the infection, smooth the insides of the root canal and then seal it to prevent further re infection.
Why Are Root Canal Procedures Done?
Generally because people want to keep their teeth, and stop pain and infection. Also to maintain the colour of teeth is a common reason for root canal treatment. We know that infection from teeth contributes to other health issues so it is advisable to undergo the procedure . Getting the treatment to sterilise and seal the root canal can only be a good thing for the body, so is worth the expense and peace of mind of mind it brings.
What Happens in Root Canal Treatment?
After all the discussions and assessments are done, the treatment will start. Your comfort is our prime. We will make sure you are comfortable throughout the treatment adjusting the temperature and the chair to suit you. The tooth will be numbed and a special rubber sheet/cover will be applied to the tooth to help you open and to stop any infection from the tooth entering your mouth. We will then shape, clean and sterilise the tooth root canals checking each stage with x-rays of the tooth root and then dry and seal it from root tip to the top, a filling will seal the root canal and then you will be advised on the next stages: what to do if there is any discomfort afterwards, how to protect the tooth in the first hours/days and then longer term. And how to contact us at any stage throughout the healing. Sometimes we may advise a crown or onlay or larger filling to protect the tooth from cracking.
This kind of treatment has been around for many decades but has of course changed dramatically to become a universally accepted healthcare procedure that’s used around the world thousands of times per day to help people keep their teeth and get rid of infection. The treatment involves using highly engineered precision, single use, sterile, German and Swiss cleaning tips that go inside the root canal and gently shape inside the canal and bring out the infected nerve or pulp. We use fluids and gels to sterilise the canals, measuring them using special tips, machines and x-rays and then when we are satisfied that its clean and dry we use will use the latest technology to seal the canals. A final check with an x-ray and then we will fill the tooth itself leaving you ready to get on with your life. We will check the healing and advise about any ongoing care that is required to maintain the health of your teeth and gums.
Has the procedure changed over time?
Yes, like any aspect of our modern lives the Root Canal procedure has years of evidence to show us the most successful techniques and equipment alongside training courses which update us with the best and latest knowledge from around the world.
Can an old root filling be redone?
In most circumstances, yes it can. We would put the tooth through all aspects of the assessment process and then give you all the options you need to make the right choice for you. So call us to discuss how we can help!
Can a root filling stop working?
Leaking fillings, crowns and decay can all cause the infection to come back. So the procedure may need repeating. Lets us know your symptoms and we’ll help!
The best way to find out what options are best for you, best for your tooth and smile is to contact us. Our treatment coordinators and front desk will help answer any pre appointment questions you may have. As with all treatments we can arrange to spread the cost monthly and interest free so you can get on with the care you need. We would be delighted to assess your mouth and teeth and let you know your particular options. Once you are entirely happy we will get the treatment completed as soon as possible for you. We will be there to hold your hand through each stage of care and for the long term.
Our Dentists and Dentists with a Special Interest in Root Canals (Endodontics) are always here to help, so call us today!
We'd love to hear from you
Contact us with your questions or to request a ring back.