Root Canal Treatment
in Romford
and Gants Hill
Book an AppointmnetWhat is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment (also known as endodontic therapy) is a dental procedure used to save a tooth that has become infected or severely decayed. When the inner part of the tooth—called the pulp—becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay, cracks, trauma, or repeated dental work, root canal treatment is often the only way to preserve the tooth and avoid extraction.
This treatment removes the source of infection, relieves pain, and allows you to keep your natural tooth.
How Is a Root Canal Performed?
A root canal is usually done in one or two appointments and is carried out under local anaesthetic, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. Here’s a simple breakdown of what happens:
- We start by numbing the area so you're completely comfortable.
- An opening is made in the tooth to reach the inside where the infection or damage is.
- The infected or damaged part is gently cleaned out, and the space is carefully disinfected.
- Once clean, the inside of the tooth is filled and sealed to stop any further infection.
- Finally, we restore the tooth with a strong filling or crown to protect it and make sure it works like normal again.
Aftercare Following Root Canal Treatment
After your root canal treatment, it’s normal to experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days. This can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
Here are some important aftercare tips:
- Take any prescribed medication as instructed by your dentist.
- Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it has been fully restored with a crown or final filling.
- Maintain good oral hygiene – brush and floss regularly, and avoid very hard or sticky foods.
- Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing and complete the final restoration.
With proper care, a root canal-treated tooth can last just as long as your natural teeth.
What are the benefits?
- Nerve damage can cause severe toothache but the pain will end quickly when the root canal is cleaned out.
- Without a root filling, a tooth with a dead nerve would probably have to be extracted.
- be extracted. In approximately 66% of cases root fillings are successful and will extend the life of a damaged tooth.