Specialist care
Specialist dental treatments provided by qualified clinicians, with treatment plans tailored to individual needs and delivered using established clinical techniques where appropriate.
Root canal treatment (endodontics)
A root canal is a treatment used to remove infection from inside a tooth, helping to relieve discomfort, prevent the infection from spreading and save the tooth wherever possible. Also known as endodontic treatment, root canal treatment is usually carried out by a dentist. In more complex cases, you may be referred to an endodontist, a dentist with additional expertise in root canal procedures.
How will I know if I need root canal treatment?
An infected tooth can be caused by deep tooth decay, cracked or chipped teeth, or trauma, which creates an opening for bacteria to enter.
What is the process for root canal treatment?
If your dentist thinks you need root canal treatment, they or an endodontist will thoroughly examine your mouth, and ask you about your symptoms and medical history. They will also take x-rays to assess the level of infection and check any damage to the root. Root canal treatment is normally carried out over two appointments:
- At your first appointment: your dentist or endodontist will start by injecting a local anaesthetic into the area around your tooth. Once it's numb, they'll place a thin rubber sheet called a 'dental dam' inside your mouth that covers everything except the tooth, keeping the area around your tooth dry and clean. They will then use specially designed tools to remove any infected tissue. Once your canals are clean, your dentist will place a temporary filling to seal your tooth again.
- At your second appointment: your dentist or endodontist will remove your temporary filling and check that all the infection has gone. Then will then fill your root canal with a permanent filling. If your tooth is badly worn or at risk of further damage, your dentist or endodontist may suggest you come back again to have a custom-made crown fitted (an artificial cap that fits over your tooth to protect and strengthen it).
What is the process for root canal treatment?
If your dentist thinks you need root canal treatment, they or an endodontist will thoroughly examine your mouth, and ask you about your symptoms and medical history. They will also take x-rays to assess the level of infection and check any damage to the root. Root canal treatment is normally carried out over two appointments:
- At your first appointment: your dentist or endodontist will start by injecting a local anaesthetic into the area around your tooth. Once it's numb, they'll place a thin rubber sheet called a 'dental dam' inside your mouth that covers everything except the tooth, keeping the area around your tooth dry and clean. They will then use specially designed tools to remove any infected tissue. Once your canals are clean, your dentist will place a temporary filling to seal your tooth again.
- At your second appointment: your dentist or endodontist will remove your temporary filling and check that all the infection has gone. Then will then fill your root canal with a permanent filling. If your tooth is badly worn or at risk of further damage, your dentist or endodontist may suggest you come back again to have a custom-made crown fitted (an artificial cap that fits over your tooth to protect and strengthen it).
Why choose us?
Clear costs
We explain your treatment options clearly and provide written treatment plans and estimates where appropriate, so you understand your proposed care and the associated costs before treatment begins.
Modern techniques
We regularly review equipment, techniques and professional training to support the delivery of contemporary, evidence-informed dental care.
Clear guidance
We explain treatment options, associated costs and relevant information before treatment begins, helping you make informed decisions about your dental care.
Preventative care
We take a preventative approach to dental care, providing advice and regular care to help you maintain your dental health and address potential concerns at an early stage.
What happens after root canal treatment?
You'll be able to go home straight after treatment. It usually takes two to four hours for anaesthesia to wear off. Your teeth might feel sensitive or swollen for a few days after the procedure. Your dentist or endodontist will provide you with post treatment and aftercare advice before and after having treatment.
Most root canal procedures are successful, but as with any procedures, there can sometimes be complications. Your dentist or endodontist will provide you with this information before you choose to go ahead with treatment.
What happens after root canal treatment?
You'll be able to go home straight after treatment. It usually takes two to four hours for anaesthesia to wear off. Your teeth might feel sensitive or swollen for a few days after the procedure. Your dentist or endodontist will provide you with post treatment and aftercare advice before and after having treatment.
Most root canal procedures are successful, but as with any procedures, there can sometimes be complications. Your dentist or endodontist will provide you with this information before you choose to go ahead with treatment.
Why is it called a root canal?
The visible part of your tooth is called the crown, and the part below the gum is the root. Inside the tooth is the root canal system, filled with dental pulp, which nourishes and hydrates the tooth and senses temperature.
When the pulp becomes infected, it can cause pain, especially when eating or drinking. If untreated, the pulp may die, and the infection can spread. Root canal infections won't go away on their own, and antibiotics cannot treat them. Your dentist will advise you on what is best for you and your smile.
Why is it called a root canal?
The visible part of your tooth is called the crown, and the part below the gum is the root. Inside the tooth is the root canal system, filled with dental pulp, which nourishes and hydrates the tooth and senses temperature.
When the pulp becomes infected, it can cause pain, especially when eating or drinking. If untreated, the pulp may die, and the infection can spread. Root canal infections won't go away on their own, and antibiotics cannot treat them. Your dentist will advise you on what is best for you and your smile.
How to avoid a root canal
You can often prevent the need for a root canal by taking care of your teeth. Regular dental health check-ups at our practice can help your dentist spot any problems early, like damaged fillings or crowns, before they cause infection.
Tooth decay is a common cause of root canal infections. You can keep your teeth and gums healthy by brushing and flossing daily and limiting sugary or fizzy drinks.
If you are experiencing tooth pain, contact us today to see if you require root canal treatment.
How to avoid a root canal
You can often prevent the need for a root canal by taking care of your teeth. Regular dental health check-ups at our practice can help your dentist spot any problems early, like damaged fillings or crowns, before they cause infection.
Tooth decay is a common cause of root canal infections. You can keep your teeth and gums healthy by brushing and flossing daily and limiting sugary or fizzy drinks.
If you are experiencing tooth pain, contact us today to see if you require root canal treatment.
View our other repairing teeth treatments
View all Repairing teethDental fillings
Dental crowns
A weakened, broken or heavily restored tooth may need extra support. A custom-made dental crown helps protect the tooth, restore its function and improve its natural appearance.
Read more about Dental crownsRead our reviews
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Angela Curtis
I honestly couldn’t be happier with the results! From my very first appointment, Dr Prabhat Gurung made me feel completely at ease, explaining every step of the treatment and making sure I was comfortable throughout. A special thank you also to the dental nurse, Olivia Dale who was incredibly kind, friendly and reassuring. She helped me feel relaxed at every visit and was such an important part of the whole experience. The attention to detail and level of skill are outstanding. My teeth look completely natural, and I finally have the smile I’ve always wanted. I can’t stop smiling, and my confidence has grown so much. Everyone at Durham Smile Clinic has been welcoming, caring and professional. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Dr Prabhat Gurung and the whole team to anyone looking for exceptional dental care. Thank you all so much!
Mandi
Another nervous patient here but I cannot thank Mel and the others enough for making me feel so at ease today!! I’m neurodivergent and very anxious - this was no trouble at all and it was so nice not feeling like a burden. Mel talked me through everything, was so so patient with me, understood what I needed and met me where I was instead of pushing me; after bad experiences in the past I feel so much better after today!
Gail Dunn
Brilliant! Dr Roshan and team were so attentive and listened to all my (complex) needs. He gave me loads of information and advice. He really took his time and I didn't feel rushed at all. Best dentist experience I've ever had.