Root Canal Treatment in London

Root canal treatment is a routine dental procedure used to treat infection or inflammation inside a tooth. At Thousand Smiles, our experienced dentists carry out root canal therapy to relieve pain, remove infection, and preserve the natural tooth. By treating the tooth from the inside, we can help prevent the need for extraction and maintain your natural smile.

What Is a Root Canal?

Each tooth has roots that anchor it to the jawbone. Inside the tooth lies a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. The pulp extends down through narrow spaces in the roots called root canals.

When bacteria enter the pulp — often due to decay, cracks, or injury — infection can develop. A root canal treatment removes the diseased pulp, disinfects the canals, and seals the tooth, allowing it to function normally again.

When Do You Need a Root Canal?

A root canal is typically recommended when the pulp becomes infected or severely inflamed. Common causes include:

Deep decay reaching the nerve
A cracked or fractured tooth
Failing fillings or crowns
Trauma or injury to the tooth
Gum disease spreading into the roots
Multiple dental procedures on the same tooth

They are not designed to treat complex orthodontic issues involving the full bite or jaw alignment. In those cases, traditional braces or comprehensive aligner treatment may be recommended.

Signs you may need a root canal include:

Persistent toothache
Swelling around the gum or jaw
Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
A darkened or discoloured tooth
Abscess formation (a pocket of pus around the root)

If left untreated, the infection can spread, cause severe pain, and ultimately lead to tooth loss.

Call Thousand Smiles on 020 3773 2280 to book an appointment if you are experiencing tooth pain or swelling.

020 3773 2280

Is Root Canal Treatment Painful?

Contrary to common belief, root canal treatment is not painful. With modern techniques and effective local anaesthetic, the procedure feels very similar to having a standard filling.

For nervous patients, dental sedation can also be arranged to help you feel completely at ease.

Preparing for Treatment

Before treatment, your dentist will:

Examine the tooth and discuss your symptoms
Take X-rays to see the extent of the infection and root structure
Explain the treatment process and answer your questions

In some cases, you may be referred to an endodontist — a specialist in root canal therapy — if the tooth anatomy is particularly complex.

The Root Canal Procedure

Root canal treatment is usually completed in one or two visits. The steps include:

Anaesthesia and isolation – The dentist numbs the area and places a small rubber sheet (dental dam) around the tooth to keep it dry and clean.
Accessing the canal – A small opening is made in the top of the tooth to reach the infected pulp.
Cleaning – Special instruments remove the infected pulp, and the canal is disinfected to eliminate bacteria.
Shaping – The canals are shaped so they can be properly filled and sealed.
Filling – A biocompatible material is placed inside the canals to prevent reinfection. A temporary filling is usually placed on top.
Restoration – At a second visit, the permanent filling or crown is placed to protect and restore full function to the tooth.

In cases where the tooth is heavily worn or fragile, a crown is recommended to strengthen and protect it long-term.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery is usually straightforward. Once the anaesthetic wears off, you may notice mild soreness or tenderness for a few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief such as ibuprofen or paracetamol.

General aftercare advice includes:

Avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth until fully restored
Continue brushing and flossing normally to maintain oral hygiene
Attend follow-up appointments as advised for check-ups and final restoration

Most patients return to normal activities the same day. Tenderness typically resolves within one to two weeks.

How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?

The cost of root canal treatment depends on factors such as:

Which tooth is affected (front teeth usually cost less than molars)
The complexity of the infection
Whether additional restoration, such as a crown, is required

At Thousand Smiles, you will always receive a clear breakdown of costs before treatment begins.

Alternatives to Root Canal Treatment

The main alternative to a root canal is tooth extraction. However, removing a tooth can lead to further problems such as:

Shifting of nearby teeth
Difficulty chewing
Higher long-term costs for replacement with an implant or bridge

Root canal treatment is almost always the preferred option because it preserves your natural tooth. Extraction is only advised if the tooth is too damaged to save or if gum disease has significantly compromised its stability.

Potential Complications

Root canal therapy has a very high success rate. However, as with any procedure, complications can occasionally occur, including:

Re-infection if bacteria remain or re-enter the tooth
Damage to surrounding tissue or nerves (rare)
The tooth becoming brittle if not restored with a crown

Your dentist will carefully assess your case to minimise risks and give you the best possible outcome.

FAQs About Root Canal Treatment

How long does treatment take?

Most root canals take one to two appointments, each lasting 60–90 minutes.
Will my tooth look different afterwards?

Root canal treatment can sometimes cause a tooth to darken. If this happens, whitening or a crown can restore its appearance.
Can the tooth still get cavities afterwards?

Yes — the treated tooth still requires good oral care and routine check-ups to prevent decay.
How long does a root canal last?

With proper restoration and care, a root canal-treated tooth can last as long as any other natural tooth.