Things you need to know about Root Canal Treatment

March 30, 2022

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Having a root canal is extremely common, but why do we need root canal treatment? Some of the reasons for needing a root canal: are broken teeth, cavities or decay. Within the tooth, under the hard layers (enamel and dentine) there is something called the pulp. This includes soft tissue, nerve endings, blood vessels and cells. When this pulp becomes damaged by a bacterial infection it’s time to undergo a root canal, your dentist will remove the infected pulp, fill the area and cover it.

How will your dentist know you need a root canal?

If you have a hole, chip or crack in your tooth that is accompanied by toothache when you put pressure on the tooth (through eating etc.) it is likely you may need a root canal. Be assured that your dentist will do the necessary tests to ensure this is the right treatment for you, rather than basing it on assumption. Your dentist will take a series of X-rays to assess the damage that has been done before root canal treatment.

What’s included in root canal treatment?

As we mentioned above a root canal is to extract the infected pulp tissue within the tooth. What’s the root canal pain like? A local anaesthetic is typically used to reduce and eliminate the discomfort or pain you feel during the process. After the infected tissue is removed your dentist will fill the space with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha, this acts like a permanent bandage. Doing this will prevent fluid or bacteria from entering the tooth through its root.

Root canal cost

There are 2 ways of having a root canal, NHS service or private dental care. Under NHS treatment you can expect to pay £65.20 for a root canal, and privately you can expect to pay anywhere from around £300. You may be thinking why is having a root canal done privately so expensive? The reason is more time will be allocated to your treatment and you will most likely have a better quality of treatment. You may find that if you are a member of a dental practice they will have discounts on treatments such as root canals as a member benefit. Root canal treatment cost is covered, so let’s move on…

Will I need a filling or a crown after my root canal treatment?

It is thought that a crown is the best way of protecting the tooth after root canal treatment. Saying that it will depend on the health of the tooth and the level of protection required. You may be advised by your dentist to have a filling rather than a crown for various reasons. After a root canal, filling the tooth is essential, but you should take your dentist’s advice on the best route to take post root canal. It’s worth noting root canal and crown fit will likely be a higher price than just a root canal alone, but again, chat to your dentist about the cost involved.

Root canal aftercare, what to expect.

First thing first, directly after the procedure your tooth will still be numb from the local anaesthetic, you mustn’t attempt to eat anything or drink anything hot.

Your dentist will give you a prescription for pain medication or advise you to take over-the-counter pain medication. They may give you your first dose before the procedure, but if they don’t they will direct you on when to take pain medication after the procedure.

You should avoid chewing on the side that has had the root canal, this will allow the tooth to rest and avoid any unnecessary pressure. Being careful when brushing the affected tooth will also reduce your chance of pain or discomfort. The root canal pain should subside within a couple of days, however, if you notice you’re still in pain we recommend getting in touch with your dentist to get some guidance.

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