This procedure lets us keep the natural tooth instead of extracting it. Modern techniques, proper anaesthesia and rubber‑dam isolation make the appointment calm and comfortable for most people.
FAQs
The usual reason is an infected or irreversibly inflamed nerve, often with an abscess. Severe decay, deep cracks, large breaks or trauma can all damage the pulp. Cleaning out the infection saves the tooth and prevents the pain from worsening.
No. We thoroughly numb the tooth, place a rubber dam, and work with fine instruments. Many patients are so relaxed they doze off during treatment.
A single‑root front tooth may take 30–45 minutes. Molars often need two visits of about an hour each. Your dentist will outline the schedule after examination.
Persistent throbbing pain, lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling of the face or gum, a pimple‑like bump on the gum, darkening of a traumatised tooth, or pain that needs painkillers are common warning signs. A full exam and X‑ray confirm the diagnosis.
We numb the area and isolate the tooth with a rubber dam. Decay is removed and the pulp chamber opened. Each canal is cleaned and disinfected, often over two visits. Finally the canals are filled and sealed; a temporary or permanent filling is placed on top.
Complexity determines cost. Anterior teeth start at about €350; molars with multiple canals can be €800. Retreatment of an old root canal is more challenging and may cost extra.
Yes. Only local anaesthetic is used, so it is safe to drive yourself home.
The infection can spread, causing severe pain, swelling, bone loss and possible systemic illness. Eventually the tooth will be lost.
A root‑treated tooth is more brittle. Posterior teeth almost always need a crown to prevent fracture and seal the pulp chamber. Some front teeth may manage without, depending on bite forces.
With a good crown, proper hygiene and regular check‑ups, a root‑treated tooth can last 15 years or more.
The only alternative is extraction. Removing a tooth affects adjacent teeth and often requires a bridge, denture or implant for replacement.
Avoid chewing hard foods on the tooth until it is permanently restored with a crown. Maintain excellent brushing, flossing and regular dental visits.
Keeping your natural tooth is usually best for function, aesthetics and cost. Extraction can lead to shifting teeth, bite problems and further treatment costs.
Failure is rare but possible. Causes include extra canals, complex anatomy or reinfection. Options are retreatment by a specialist, apical surgery, or extraction if the tooth cannot be salvaged.
Usually not. Some teeth darken slightly if badly infected; a crown, veneer or internal whitening can restore appearance.
Wait until the numbness wears off. Stick to soft foods for a day or two and avoid chewing directly on the tooth until it is fully restored.
Brush twice daily, floss, attend regular check‑ups and cleanings, wear a night‑guard if you grind, limit sugar and treat cavities early.
