Also in this section:
Replacing teeth
Restore your teeth and your confidence: from single implants to bridges, only you will know they’re there.
Also in this section:
Restore your teeth and your confidence: from single implants to bridges, only you will know they’re there.
Root canal (endodontics)
Is extraction a good alternative to root canal treatment?
Saving your natural teeth, if possible, is always the best option.
Even the most identical replacement will never be as good as keeping your original tooth. Endodontic treatment, along with restoration if needed, is a cost-effective way to treat teeth with damaged pulp and is usually less expensive than extraction and placement of a bridge or an implant.
A bridge or an implant will require significantly more time in treatment and may result in further procedures to adjacent teeth and supporting tissues.
Endodontic treatment also has a very high success rate. Many root-canal-treated teeth last a lifetime. Those healthy teeth are helping patients chew efficiently, maintain the natural appearance of their smiles, and enhance their enjoyment of life. Through endodontic treatment at Portman, you can keep your natural teeth for a lifetime.
Root canal (endodontics)
Is a root canal treatment painful?
Many endodontic procedures are performed to relieve the pain of toothache caused by pulp inflammation or infection. At Portman, we use modern techniques and anaesthetics, and most people report that they’re comfortable during the procedure.
For the first few days after treatment, your tooth may feel sensitive, especially if you had pain or infection before the procedure. This can be relieved with over-the-counter or prescription medications. Your endodontist will give you detailed instructions about how to relieve any pain.
Your tooth may continue to feel slightly different from your other teeth for some time after your endodontic treatment is completed. However, if you have severe pain, pressure, or pain that lasts more than a few days, call your endodontist.
Root canal (endodontics)
What happens following endodontic treatment?
The root canal system inside your tooth has been thoroughly cleaned during your treatment, and any irritated tissue and bacteria are gone.
It’s normal to feel some tenderness in the area over the next few days as your mouth heals. You may also feel some tenderness in your jaw from keeping it open during the treatment.
These symptoms are temporary and usually respond well to over-the-counter pain medications, such as paracetamol. It’s important for you to follow the instructions on how to take these medications. Remember that narcotic medications, if prescribed, may make you drowsy, and you should avoid operating machinery or driving a car after taking them.
Root canal (endodontics)
Do I need to do anything else after treatment?
Root canal treatment is only the first step in returning your tooth, and the rest of your mouth, to full function. You’ll need a proper final restoration of the tooth to ensure long-term success.
Contact your Portman dentist within two weeks of treatment to arrange your next appointment. If your tooth is being treated in more than one visit by an endodontist, wait until the root canal treatment is completed before returning.
Root canal (endodontics)
Is my clinician a registered specialist or board-certified?
You can search for your endodontist on the specialist register on the General Dental Council website.
All AAE member endodontists are licensed by the country in which they practice. Some endodontists have chosen to become Diplomates of the American Board of Endodontics and are board-certified. You can search for an endodontist who has achieved Diplomate status through the American Board of Endodontics website.
Next steps
A member of your local practice team can help.
Next steps
If you're ready to take up treatment, get in touch.
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