Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to remove infected or damaged pulp from inside a tooth, clean and disinfect the root canals, and fill them with a biocompatible material. It’s needed when the tooth pulp becomes infected due to decay, trauma, cracks, or deep fillings.

The procedure is usually pain-free, as a local anaesthetic is used to fully numb the area. Most patients experience little to no pain during treatment; any post-procedure discomfort is typically mild and temporary.

Signs you may need a root canal include severe toothache, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, gum swelling or tenderness, abscess (pus near the tooth), discolouration of the tooth, and pain when biting or chewing.

Common symptoms are tooth pain (especially when chewing), swollen or tender gums, sensitivity to temperature, facial swelling, gum boils or abscesses, pus, and the tooth turning darker in colour.

A root canal typically takes 30 to 90 minutes per tooth, depending on complexity and the number of canals. Some cases require more than one visit to complete.

The dentist removes the infected pulp, cleans and shapes the inside of the canals, disinfects them, and fills the space with a safe material. Finally, the tooth is sealed and, in most cases, a crown is placed to restore strength and function.

Yes, a root canal is designed to save your natural tooth, remove infection, relieve pain, and restore function. It allows you to keep your original tooth structure and smile.

Recovery is usually quick. Most people feel back to normal within a few days, though mild tenderness may persist briefly. Full healing may take several days; follow your dentist’s advice on aftercare.

Stick to soft foods until the numbness wears off and the tooth begins healing. Avoid chewing on the treated side until fully restored. Once healed and your final crown is placed, you can eat normally again.

At Surbiton Dental, the cost of a root canal depends on the tooth being treated:

Incisor/Canine: £600

Premolar: £600

Molar: £750

Root canal with Dr Minesh Patel: £850

You’ll receive a personalised treatment plan and a clear cost estimate before beginning any procedure. Our costs are competitive with other practices in the area and reflect the complexity and expertise involved in each case. If you have questions about payment options or require a detailed quote, our team is happy to assist. However, if you have a membership, you get the benefit of discounted price points.

The main alternative is tooth extraction. However, losing a tooth can lead to shifting of nearby teeth, bone loss, and the need for replacement with bridges, dentures, or implants, which may require more treatment.

It’s generally better to save your natural tooth with a root canal if possible, as this maintains your bite, chewing function, and jawbone integrity. Extraction is sometimes necessary if the tooth cannot be saved.

With good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, a root canal-treated tooth can last many years, often a lifetime. Success rates are high, about 90–95%.

In most cases, a crown is recommended after a root canal to strengthen and protect the tooth from fracture or reinfection.

While rare, it is possible for a tooth to become reinfected if not properly sealed or if new decay develops. Root canal retreatment can often address persistent or renewed infection.

Mild discomfort is normal for a few days. If you experience severe pain, swelling, or prolonged symptoms, contact your dentist promptly, as this could signal complications that need attention.

Many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of a root canal, especially if it’s medically necessary. Coverage varies, so check with your insurer and dental team for details.

Yes, root canal treatment (adapted for children) can be safely performed if necessary to treat infection or preserve a young tooth.

Most people can return to work or normal activities the next day, as recovery is quick and any discomfort is usually minor.

Avoiding needed root canal treatment can lead to worsening pain, abscess formation, spread of infection, bone loss, and ultimately tooth loss. Early treatment preserves your oral and overall health.