What Happens During a Root Canal Procedure and How Much Does It Cost?

This procedure involves removing the infected pulp from the tooth, cleaning it out and then sealing it up to protect it from further infection. It is usually recommended when a tooth has become severely decayed or infected due to deep cavities or trauma. The procedure may take several visits, depending on the severity of the problem.

Only your dentist can confirm if you need a root canal treatment. It is often the last resort to help save a severely infected tooth. It is also important to get the treatment done as soon as possible in order to avoid any further infection or damage. Ignoring dental pain won't make it go away forever. Typically, the infection will die down for a while but then flare up worse than before in the future. To avoid this, you need to address the source of the pain.

What is root canal therapy?

Root canal therapy is the name given to a procedure that removes the infection from the roots of the tooth. This procedure typically takes one to three visits and consists of the following:

• Removing the infected pulp from within the root canal

• Cleaning, reshaping and disinfecting the roots of the tooth

• Filling and sealing each root canal with a biocompatible material

Your tooth might be topped with a filling or a crown, depending on the size and location of the tooth.

Can anyone carry out a root canal?

Only a qualified and experienced dentist or endodontist (root canal specialist) can carry out root canals. This is because they have the necessary knowledge and skills to safely assess, diagnose and treat the condition.

Your root canal treatment can usually be carried out in your usual dental office unless the procedure is a lot more complex. In this case, you may be referred to another centre. If you’re looking for an endodontist in Coventry, we can help.

What happens during the treatment?

There are multiple stages to the root canal treatment. It could be completed in one visit, or you may need to return to the practice to complete your treatment.

Step one:

Your dentist will take X-rays to determine the condition of your tooth and its roots. If a root canal is needed, they will administer local anaesthetic to ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure.

Step two:

Your dentist will remove the infected portion of your tooth using small tools. It's important to clear out all of the roots of your teeth to prevent reinfection.

Step three:

Your dentist will clean and shape the roots of your tooth with small files. A special dye may be used to make sure the entire root canal is completely cleansed.

Step four:

Finally, your dentist will seal the root canals with a biocompatible material (usually gutta percha) and place a filling or crown on the top. This will help to restore the strength of the tooth, allowing you to chew as normal again.

What can I expect after a root canal?

The biggest thing you will notice after a root canal is that you will no longer be in pain. Once the infection is removed, the pain will go away.

Your tooth may feel slightly sensitive for a few days as you become accustomed to the new sensations. You might find that very hot and very cold things are painful against your tooth, but this should go away with time. It is important to avoid biting down directly on the treated tooth until your dentist has placed a filling or crown over it.

If you had a lot of inflammation as a result of the infection, this could take a few days to alleviate. Over-the-counter pain medication such as Ibuprofen should help to manage your pain and reduce inflammation.

Once your tooth has been restored, there is always the risk of reinfection. It's important to visit your dentist regularly so that they can spot the hidden signs of an infection. This could help you to avoid the need for another root canal procedure.

How much does a root canal cost in the UK?

The cost of a root canal in the UK depends on several factors, such as the type of tooth being repaired and the location. Root canal treatment is available on the NHS and it is considered to be a band 3 treatment. This means that you will pay £282.80 for the entire treatment, including the crown restoration.

With NHS treatment, you will be limited in your choice of restoration materials. It will either be an amalgam filling or a metal crown. If you would like a more aesthetically pleasing restoration, you will need to pay for private treatment.

If you’re looking for root canal treatment in Coventry, get in touch with our team today. We can quickly address the source of your dental pain and get you back to good oral health.