Root canal treatment
A root canal removes infection from inside the tooth so you can keep it. With modern anaesthesia and rotary tools it usually feels like a long filling.
Is this for you?
- Lingering pain to hot or cold
- Night-time toothache
- Swelling or a gum boil
- Deep cavity or cracked tooth
How it works
- 1
Numb & isolate
Local anaesthetic, then a rubber dam keeps the tooth clean and dry.
- 2
Clean & shape
Infected pulp is removed and the canals are disinfected.
- 3
Seal & protect
Canals are filled and sealed. Most back teeth then need a crown.
Questions
Is it painful?
The goal is a pain-free procedure. Mild soreness for a few days is common and settles with simple painkillers.
One visit or two?
Many cases finish in one sitting; infected teeth may need two.
Do I need a crown?
Back teeth usually do, to prevent cracking. Front teeth often don't.