Endodontics is a special branch of dentistry that focuses on the inside of the tooth. It deals with the soft tissue called the pulp and the tissues around the roots. The most common treatment in endodontics is the root canal, which helps save natural teeth that might otherwise need extraction.

When is Endodontic Treatment Needed?

• Severe toothache due to deep decay.
• Cracked or injured teeth.
• Abscess or infection in the tooth root.
• Sensitivity to hot or cold that doesn’t go away.

Procedure Steps (Root Canal Treatment Example)

1. Local anaesthesia is given to keep the treatment pain-free.
2. The dentist opens the tooth to reach the infected pulp.
3. The infection and damaged tissue are carefully cleaned out.
4. The space inside the root is filled and sealed.
5. A crown is often placed on top to protect the tooth.

Duration

• Usually completed in 1–2 visits.
• Each session takes about 45–90 minutes depending on the tooth.

Benefits of Endodontics

• Saves natural teeth from extraction.
• Relieves pain quickly.
• Restores normal chewing and biting function.
• Prevents spread of infection to other teeth or gums.

Types of Endodontic Treatments

• Root canal therapy – Most common.
• Endodontic retreatment – Done if an earlier root canal needs repair.
• Apical surgery – Minor surgical procedure for stubborn infections.
• Pulp therapy for children – Saves milk teeth until they naturally fall out.

Cost Factors

• Complexity of the tooth (front teeth are simpler than molars).
• Whether surgery or retreatment is needed.
• Materials used for crowns (porcelain, zirconia, or metal-fused).

Possible Side Effects or Problems

• Mild soreness in the area after treatment.
• Temporary sensitivity or swelling.
• Crowns may need replacement after many years.

Ideal Patients

• Anyone with infected, damaged, or painful teeth.
• Patients wanting to save natural teeth instead of pulling them out.
• Children or adults with pulp damage due to cavities or injury.

Patient Reviews

Patients at York House Dental Practice in West Byfleet, Surrey often say their biggest surprise was how painless the treatment felt. Many had come in with unbearable toothache and walked out relieved after just one session.

Real-World Example

A patient with a severe infection in a back molar was told elsewhere to have it removed. At York House Dental Practice, an endodontic procedure saved the tooth—and the patient can still chew comfortably years later.