Root Canal

Root Filling / Root Canal Treatment FAQs

What is a root filling?

A root filling is also known as root canal treatment or endodontic treatment.

It is a dental procedure used to save a tooth when the nerve and blood supply inside the tooth, known as the pulp, has become inflamed, infected, or has died. During treatment, the damaged tissue is carefully removed from inside the tooth and the root canals are cleaned, shaped, disinfected and sealed with a root filling.

The aim of treatment is to remove the source of infection, help relieve symptoms, and preserve the natural tooth where possible.

Why has my dentist told me I need root canal treatment?

You may need root canal treatment if bacteria have reached the inside of the tooth. This can happen due to:

• deep decay or a large cavity
• a cracked, chipped or traumatised tooth
• repeated dental treatment on the same tooth
• a large or deep filling close to the nerve

You may have pain, tenderness, swelling, or sensitivity around the affected tooth. In some cases, there may be infection present without significant symptoms.

Antibiotics may sometimes be prescribed to help manage swelling or acute infection, but they do not remove the source of the problem inside the tooth. For this reason, further treatment, such as root canal treatment or extraction, is usually required to resolve the problem properly.

Why would I come to Tupsley Dental Practice for endodontic treatment?

Root canal treatment can be technically demanding, particularly in teeth with narrow, curved or complex root canals. For this reason, your dentist may recommend referral to a clinician with additional experience, training and equipment in endodontic treatment.

Rob Masters has a special interest in endodontics and has completed a Master’s degree in this field. He now limits most of his clinical practice to endodontic treatment and accepts referrals from local dental practices.

Rob holds Membership of the Faculty of General Dental Practitioners, MFGDP, from the Royal College of Surgeons, and the Diploma in Postgraduate Dental Studies, DPDS, from the University of Bristol. He has also undertaken extensive postgraduate training in occlusion and advanced restorative dentistry.

All endodontic treatment is carried out using a dental operating microscope, which allows enhanced magnification and illumination during treatment.

Rob is also a lecturer on the SimplyEndo postgraduate programme in Liverpool and provides endodontic training for Dentsply Sirona and Coltene. He lectures across the UK and Europe and is a member of the British Endodontic Society.

Are there alternatives to root canal treatment?

The main alternative to root canal treatment is usually extraction of the tooth.

Extraction may remove the source of infection, but it also means losing the tooth. For many patients, saving the natural tooth is preferable where this is possible and where the long-term outlook is reasonable.

In some cases, extraction may be advised if the tooth is badly broken down, the root structure is poor, the canals are particularly complex, or the long-term prognosis is unfavourable.

Rob Masters will assess your tooth carefully and discuss the available options with you, including the likely benefits, risks and prognosis, so that you can make an informed decision.

Can I self-refer for root canal treatment?

In most cases, it is best to ask your own dentist to refer you to us using our online referral form. This allows us to receive the relevant clinical information, including X-rays and details of previous treatment.

However, if you are unsure what to do, you are welcome to contact us by phone or WhatsApp and we can advise you on the next step.

An endodontic consultation with Rob Masters is currently £90.

I do not have a current dentist but think I may need a root filling. What should I do?

If you do not currently have a dentist, please book a new patient consultation with one of our dentists at Tupsley Dental Practice. They will assess the tooth, take any necessary X-rays, and discuss whether root canal treatment or another option may be appropriate.

Appointments can be arranged online or through our reception team.

Is Root Canal Treatment Painful?

Root canal treatment procedures are relatively comfortable and often painless as the tooth is anaesthetised during treatment. After treatment, the tooth may be sensitive or tender for a few days due to inflammation of the surrounding tissues. This discomfort can be relieved by taking mild analgesics or painkillers available over the counter at the pharmacy. However, if the pain persists and is severe, or swelling occurs, you should contact your dentist.

How much does root canal treatment cost?

The cost of root canal treatment depends on the type of tooth being treated and how many roots or canals it has.

Prices currently start from £850.

Following root canal treatment, many teeth will also require a crown or further restoration to protect the tooth long term. If you have been referred by your own dentist, this restorative part of the treatment will usually be provided by them.