Root Canal Treatments

If the inside of your tooth becomes infected or inflamed, root canal treatment may help address the problem and preserve your natural tooth. At Preston Circus Dental Practice, we provide root canal treatment in Brighton for patients who need treatment for infection or damage affecting the inner part of a tooth.

The centre of a tooth contains soft tissue known as the dental pulp, which includes nerves and blood vessels. If this tissue becomes infected or irreversibly inflamed, root canal treatment may be recommended to remove the affected tissue, clean the inside of the tooth and seal it.

If you have toothache, sensitivity or swelling, our dental team can assess your symptoms and explain the appropriate treatment options.

What Is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment, sometimes called root canal therapy, is a procedure used to treat infection or inflammation inside a tooth.

The treatment involves accessing the inside of the tooth, removing the affected pulp, cleaning and shaping the root canal system, and sealing it to help prevent further infection.

The aim is to retain your natural tooth where possible, rather than having it extracted. Following treatment, the tooth may need a filling or crown to restore and protect it, depending on how much healthy tooth structure remains.

When Might You Need Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment may be recommended when the pulp inside a tooth has become irreversibly inflamed or infected. Possible causes include:

• Deep tooth decay: bacteria can reach the pulp if decay progresses through the tooth.
• A cracked or damaged tooth: damage may expose or affect the pulp.
• Dental trauma: an injury can damage the pulp, sometimes without obvious external damage to the tooth.
• Repeated dental procedures: a tooth that has undergone several treatments may develop problems affecting its pulp.

Symptoms can include persistent toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold, pain when biting, swelling or tenderness around the affected tooth. Some teeth with pulp damage may cause few or no symptoms.

These symptoms can have other causes, so an examination is needed to determine whether root canal treatment is appropriate.

What Happens During Root Canal Treatment?

The exact procedure depends on the tooth involved and the complexity of its root canal system. Treatment usually involves the following stages.

1. Examination and Diagnosis

Your dentist will examine the tooth and assess your symptoms. Dental X-rays may be needed to help evaluate the roots and surrounding bone and plan the treatment.

Your dentist will explain the findings and discuss the available options.

2. Numbing the Tooth

Local anaesthetic is generally used to numb the area and help make treatment comfortable.

A protective sheet called a dental dam may be placed around the tooth to isolate it during the procedure.

3. Cleaning the Root Canals

Your dentist creates an opening in the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals. The affected pulp is removed, and the canals are carefully cleaned and shaped.

Depending on the tooth and the complexity of the infection, treatment may require one or more appointments.

4. Sealing the Tooth

Once the canals have been cleaned and prepared, they are filled and sealed with suitable materials to help prevent bacteria from re-entering the root canal system.

A temporary filling may be used between appointments if necessary.

5. Restoring the Tooth

After root canal treatment, the tooth needs a suitable final restoration. Depending on its condition, this may be a filling or a dental crown.

Your dentist will explain how best to restore and protect the tooth based on the amount of remaining healthy structure.

Is Root Canal Treatment Painful?

Root canal treatment is carried out using local anaesthetic to help keep you comfortable during the procedure.

The tooth may feel tender or sensitive for a short time afterwards, particularly when biting. This usually settles, but persistent or worsening pain should be assessed by your dentist.

If you are worried about the procedure, tell your dental team before treatment. They can explain what to expect and discuss any concerns with you.

Can Root Canal Treatment Save Your Tooth?

Root canal treatment is intended to remove infection or inflamed tissue from inside a tooth so that the natural tooth can be retained where possible.

The outcome depends on factors such as the extent of the damage, the condition of the tooth and the quality of the final restoration. Some teeth may not be suitable for treatment or may require extraction if they cannot be restored.

Your dentist will discuss the likely benefits, limitations and alternatives before you decide how to proceed.

How Much Does Root Canal Treatment Cost in Brighton?

Preston Circus Dental Practice lists root canal treatment from £250.

The total cost depends on the tooth being treated, the complexity of the root canal system and whether further restoration, such as a filling or crown, is required.

Your dentist can explain the expected cost of the treatment and any additional restoration before proceeding. You can also visit our dental treatment fees page for further information.

Caring for Your Tooth After Root Canal Treatment

After treatment, follow the instructions provided by your dentist and attend any recommended follow-up appointments.

To help look after your tooth:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
• Clean between your teeth every day.
• Avoid putting excessive pressure on a tooth that has only a temporary restoration.
• Arrange the recommended permanent filling or crown.
• Contact your dentist if you develop increasing pain, swelling or problems with the restoration.

A root-treated tooth can remain functional for many years, although its longevity depends on its condition, the final restoration and your ongoing oral care.

Book a Root Canal Consultation in Brighton

If you have persistent toothache, sensitivity or concerns about a damaged or infected tooth, contact Preston Circus Dental Practice for an assessment.

Our dental team can investigate the problem, explain whether root canal treatment may be suitable and discuss the next steps.

If you have any questions or concerns about root canals, please contact our practice.