Root canal treatment, also known as Root Canal therapy, is needed when symptoms suggest, or dental X-rays show that the pulp has been damaged by a bacterial infection. The pulp may become inflamed if it is infected by bacteria, causing pain when eating or drinking hot or cold food and drink.
Root canal treatment removes the nerve, blood supply and bacteria at the centre of the tooth. The root canal is then cleaned, filled and sealed to prevent further bacteria getting into the tooth. Once the root treated tooth has settled, a crown is usually the best restorative solution for the tooth.
The only alternative is to have the tooth extracted. You will then need to consider what would be the best option for you to fill the gap where the extracted tooth was. Depending where the site of the tooth is, some people are happy to leave a gap, especially if is out of the smile line. Other options include an implant, bridge or denture.
Local anaesthetic is used to totally anaesthetise your tooth so that you feel nothing during your root canal treatment. If there is a lot of infection present, it may be difficult to numb the tooth and a course of antibiotics may be required before the root canal procedure is carried out.
Root canal treatment prices range from £495 – £695. The cost varies according to the number of canals present in the tooth. Teeth that have multiple canals require more time and attention and you may need more than 1 appointment to complete the treatment.
