Endodontics
Root canal treatment aims to address the problem inside a tooth and preserve your natural tooth. We examine the cause of your pain and the condition of the tooth, then discuss whether root canal treatment, a filling or another approach is appropriate.
Ask about this treatmentEndodontics focuses on the soft tissue inside a tooth and the tissues around its roots. Deep decay, cracks or injury can inflame or infect the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. Root canal treatment aims to remove the affected tissue and retain the natural tooth. Lingering temperature sensitivity, pain when biting or swelling may warrant an examination; symptoms alone cannot establish the diagnosis. American Association of Endodontists ↗
ILLUSTRATED TREATMENT GUIDE
The pulp is the tissue containing nerves and blood vessels inside the tooth.
Affected tissue is removed, the cleaned canals are filled, and the top of the tooth is restored.
These AI-generated illustrations simplify the concept; they do not show true scale, your individual anatomy or a predicted result.
Pulp health, roots and remaining tooth structure are examined.
Affected tissue is removed; the canals are cleaned and filled.
An appropriate filling or crown helps return the tooth to function.
A simplified guide. The sequence and timing depend on individual findings.
Some tenderness can follow treatment. Attend the planned restoration and review appointments, keep up daily oral hygiene and follow the clinician's recovery advice. Avoid eating until numbness has worn off. A treated tooth still needs regular dental care; treatment is not a guarantee against future problems. NHS recovery advice ↗, AAE ↗
This information does not replace an examination and an individual treatment plan.
An appropriate permanent filling or crown is needed to protect the tooth. Your dentist will explain the options.
Timing and the number of visits depend on your assessment. You can share preferred days in your request.
The remaining tooth structure, root condition and ability to restore the tooth are assessed. Root canal treatment may preserve a restorable tooth; extraction and replacement options are discussed when it cannot be restored.
Retreatment is possible in some teeth. The cause of the problem and the existing filling or crown are assessed first. Non-surgical retreatment and root-end surgery are different options, and suitability varies.
No. Symptom relief does not mean the canal filling and final restoration are complete. Attend the permanent restoration appointment if you have a temporary filling, and keep the recommended reviews.