Root Canal Treatment in Leicester
Root canal treatment can help save a natural tooth affected by infection or damage. At Heritage & Castle Dental Care, we aim to make your treatment experience as comfortable and straightforward as possible.
Contact our Leicester dental team to discuss your symptoms and treatment options.
What Is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to treat infection or inflammation inside a tooth. The soft tissue inside the tooth, known as the dental pulp, can become infected due to decay, cracks or injury.
During treatment, the infected or damaged pulp is removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected, and the root canals are filled and sealed.
The aim is to remove the source of infection, relieve discomfort and help preserve your natural tooth wherever possible.
Why Save Your Natural Tooth?
Keeping your natural tooth can help maintain your bite, support neighbouring teeth and avoid the need for extraction when the tooth can be successfully treated.
Why Might You Need Root Canal Treatment?
The pulp inside a tooth can become infected or inflamed for several reasons. A dental examination can help identify the cause and determine the right treatment.
Deep Tooth Decay
Untreated cavities can spread deeper into the tooth and reach the dental pulp, causing infection or inflammation.
Cracked or Damaged Tooth
A crack or fracture may allow bacteria to enter the inner part of the tooth and cause infection.
Dental Injury
An injury or impact can damage the pulp, sometimes even when there is no visible crack or break.
Repeated Dental Procedures
Multiple treatments on the same tooth may sometimes affect the pulp and lead to inflammation.
Deep Fillings
Extensive decay or a deep filling may irritate the pulp and, in some cases, result in infection.
Dental Infection
An infection inside the tooth may spread towards the root and surrounding tissues if left untreated.
Common Symptoms of an Infected Tooth
Symptoms can vary from person to person. Some teeth may have an infection without causing noticeable pain.
If you experience facial swelling, fever or difficulty swallowing or breathing, seek urgent medical or dental care.
Experiencing severe toothache or swelling? Learn more about our emergency dental care in Leicester.
How Is Root Canal Treatment Performed?
Your dentist will explain the procedure and discuss your individual treatment plan before starting.
Examination
Your dentist examines the tooth and may take an X-ray to assess the extent of the infection and plan treatment.
Local Anaesthetic
Local anaesthetic is used to numb the affected area and help make the procedure comfortable.
Cleaning the Canals
The infected pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected.
Filling and Sealing
The cleaned root canals are filled and sealed. The tooth may then need a suitable restoration.
Is Root Canal Treatment Painful?
Root canal treatment is carried out using local anaesthetic to numb the affected tooth and surrounding area. Most patients experience little or no pain during the procedure.
Some tenderness or sensitivity may occur after treatment as the surrounding tissues settle. This usually improves over time.
Your dentist can discuss ways to manage any discomfort and advise you on what to expect after your appointment.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
When a tooth can be saved, root canal treatment may offer several benefits compared with removing it.
Preserves Your Natural Tooth
Helps retain your natural tooth rather than removing it, where treatment is suitable.
Helps Relieve Infection
Removes infected pulp from inside the tooth and helps address the source of the problem.
Maintains Your Bite
Keeping your natural tooth can help maintain normal biting and chewing function.
Supports Nearby Teeth
Retaining the tooth helps avoid leaving a gap that may affect neighbouring teeth.
Restores Function
After suitable restoration, the treated tooth can continue to function for everyday eating.
Can Offer Long-Term Results
With appropriate restoration and good oral hygiene, a treated tooth may last for many years.
Depending on the extent of tooth damage, other restorative options may be considered. Explore our fillings and restorations in Leicester to learn more.
Are There Any Risks or Complications?
Root canal treatment is a commonly performed dental procedure, but as with any treatment, there may be risks or complications.
Your dentist will assess your tooth and explain the potential benefits, risks and alternatives before recommending treatment.
Possible Complications
- Temporary tenderness or discomfort after treatment.
- Persistent or recurring infection in some cases.
- The tooth may become more brittle and require a crown.
- Occasionally, further treatment may be needed.
- There is a possibility that the tooth may not be successfully saved.
Recovery and Aftercare
Following your dentist's advice can help support healing and protect your treated tooth.
- Wait until the local anaesthetic has worn off before eating.
- Avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the treated tooth.
- Continue brushing and cleaning between your teeth carefully.
- Attend any recommended follow-up appointments.
- Follow your dentist's advice about pain relief and medication.
Regular preventive care can also help you maintain your oral health. Find out more about our hygiene and preventive dental care .
Root Canal Treatment Prices in Leicester
Our root canal treatment fees are listed below. The exact treatment required will depend on the tooth and its condition.
Please contact the practice to discuss your treatment needs and confirm the applicable fees.
Ask our team about available payment options and dental treatment finance . Finance is subject to eligibility and terms.
Root Canal Treatment vs Tooth Extraction
The best option depends on the condition of your tooth, your oral health and your individual needs.
| Consideration | Root Canal Treatment | Tooth Extraction |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Tooth | Aims to preserve the natural tooth. | The affected tooth is removed. |
| Function | Allows the treated tooth to continue functioning after restoration. | A gap may remain or require replacement. |
| Restoration | A filling or crown may be needed. | Replacement options may include an implant, bridge or denture. |
| Suitability | Suitable when the tooth can be successfully treated and restored. | May be recommended when the tooth cannot be saved. |
Your dentist can explain which option is most appropriate after examining your tooth.
If a tooth cannot be saved, your dentist can discuss suitable alternatives. Visit our dental services page to explore the treatments available at our practice.
Why Choose Us for Root Canal Treatment in Leicester?
We aim to provide a supportive dental experience, with clear information and treatment recommendations based on your dental needs.
Patient-Focused Care
We take time to understand your concerns and discuss suitable treatment options.
Clear Treatment Information
We explain the procedure, expected outcomes and relevant treatment fees.
Individual Treatment Planning
Recommendations are based on the condition of your tooth and your dental requirements.
Convenient Appointment Enquiries
Contact our team to discuss appointment availability and arrange a visit.
Root Canal Treatment FAQs
Find answers to some common questions about root canal treatment.
1. What is the main purpose of root canal treatment?
The main purpose is to remove infected or inflamed pulp from inside a tooth, clean the root canals and seal them to help preserve the natural tooth.
2. How long does root canal treatment take?
Treatment time depends on the tooth, the complexity of the root canals and the extent of infection. Your dentist can provide an estimated treatment time after an examination.
3. Is root canal treatment better than extraction?
When a tooth can be successfully treated and restored, root canal treatment may help preserve your natural tooth. However, extraction may be necessary if the tooth cannot be saved.
4. Will I need a crown after root canal treatment?
Some teeth, particularly back teeth, may need a crown to protect them and restore their strength. Your dentist will advise whether a crown is suitable for your tooth.
5. How long does a root canal treated tooth last?
A treated tooth can last for many years with appropriate restoration, good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. Its lifespan depends on several factors.
6. Can I eat after root canal treatment?
You should wait until the numbness wears off before eating. Your dentist may also recommend avoiding hard or chewy foods on the treated tooth until it has been fully restored.
7. What happens if I do not get root canal treatment?
An untreated infected tooth may continue to cause pain and the infection may spread. In some cases, the tooth may eventually need to be removed. Seek dental advice if you have symptoms.
8. Is root canal treatment available on Sundays?
Sunday appointments are available. Please contact our team to discuss appointment availability and arrange a suitable time.
9. Are Thursday appointments available?
Thursday appointments may be opened when there are sufficient bookings. Please contact the practice to check availability.
10. How can I book a root canal consultation?
You can contact Heritage & Castle Dental Care by phone or use our online booking link to enquire about an appointment.
Enquire About Root Canal Treatment
Would you like to know more about root canal treatment or arrange an appointment? Send us your details and our team can get back to you.
Heritage & Castle Dental Care
Phone: 0116 360 2111
You can also visit our Contact Us page for more information about reaching our Leicester practice.