What is root treatment?
Where the decay in the tooth has broken through into the nerve in the tooth the entire inner chamber of the tooth becomes infected. In order to save the tooth we need to disinfect the tooth and fill up the space where the germs had set up their home. This is called root treatment or a root canal filling.
Who is it for?
If you want to save the natural tooth when it has become infected. The laternative is to have the tooth and root remove and then you will either have to manage with a gap or have the tooth replaced with a denture, a bridge or an implant.
How does it work?
We usually numb the tooth with a local anaesthetic and then open up the space where the germs have killed off the tooth. This is done under some rubber sheeting in order to protect your airway and the stop the tooth from getting reinfected. We irrigated with a disinfectant solution and clean and shape the space which has been infected. The cleaned space is then filled with a sealant and then the tooth is filled.
How long does it take?
This depends on the complexity but usually anything from 60 minutes to 2 hours. We will advise the time it will take before we book the appointment.
How much does it cost?
This depends on the number of roots involved. Root fillings cost from £530 for private patients and from £400 for Dental Subscribers.
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Frequently asked questions
Will it hurt?
Will it last?
Is the rubber sheeting essential?