A root canal treatment (RCT) is a dental procedure designed to save a tooth when the soft inner part (pulp) becomes infected or severely damaged. Instead of removing the tooth, the dentist carefully cleans, shapes, and seals it so the tooth can function normally again.

Many people assume root canals are painful, but thanks to modern dentistry and gentle techniques, the procedure is usually no more uncomfortable than having a filling.

Steps of the Procedure

• Examination & X-ray – The dentist checks the tooth and surrounding bone with detailed scans.
• Local Anaesthesia – The tooth and gum are numbed to ensure complete comfort.
• Access Opening – A small opening is made in the tooth to reach the infected pulp.
• Cleaning & Shaping – Infected tissue and bacteria are removed using fine instruments.
• Sealing & Filling – The canals are sealed with a special material to prevent re-infection.
• Restoration (Crown or Filling) – A crown is usually placed for strength and long-lasting results.

Treatment Duration

• A simple root canal: 1 visit (60–90 minutes).
• Complex cases: 2–3 visits, depending on the infection.

Cost Factors

The cost may vary depending on:

• Location of the tooth (front teeth usually cost less than molars).
• Complexity of the infection.
• Type of restoration required (filling vs. dental crown).
• Materials used.

At York House Dental Practice in West Byfleet, Surrey, many patients choose crowns for durability and a natural look.

Types of Root Canal Treatments

• Conventional Root Canal Therapy – Standard cleaning and sealing.
• Re-treatment – For teeth that had a failed RCT earlier.
• Microscopic Endodontics – Uses advanced equipment for precision.
• Apicoectomy (Surgical Option) – If infection persists in the root tip.

Ideal Patients

• Severe toothache or sensitivity.
• Tooth decay reaching the pulp.
• Swelling or gum boil near the tooth.
• Cracked or injured teeth with nerve damage.

Patient Reviews (Common Experience)

• “It was much easier than I expected. The toothache stopped immediately after treatment.”
• “The crown feels natural, and I can chew normally again.”

Possible Side Effects / Problems

• Mild soreness for a few days (easily managed with pain relief).
• Slight swelling or gum tenderness.
• Rare cases of re-infection or need for re-treatment.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

• Saves your natural tooth.
• Relieves pain almost instantly.
• Prevents spread of infection.
• Restores normal chewing and biting.
• Long-lasting results with proper care.

With proper brushing, flossing, and check-ups at York House Dental Practice, a treated tooth can last as long as your other teeth.

Introduction to Dental Implants

A dental implant is a modern solution to replace missing teeth. It works like a natural tooth because it has a titanium “root” placed in the jawbone. A crown is then fixed on top, blending seamlessly with your other teeth.

Unlike removable dentures, implants are permanent, strong, and feel very natural. Many patients report that chewing with implants feels just like using real teeth.

Best for: Patients with missing teeth due to decay, injury, or gum disease.
Advantages: Long-lasting, prevents bone loss, improves smile confidence.
Treatment Duration: Usually takes 3–6 months, as the bone needs time to heal and fuse with the implant.

Think of it as giving your smile a second chance—with roots that feel just as strong as natural teeth.