Everything You Need to Know About Root Canals

A root canal may sound scary—but it’s a safe and effective way to save your tooth.

At Abbey Mead Dental & Implant Clinic, our goal is to keep your natural teeth healthy for as long as possible. And root canal treatment (also known as endodontics) helps us do just that.

Let’s break it all down.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a treatment that removes infection from inside your tooth.

The soft tissue at the centre of your tooth is called the pulp. It contains nerves and blood vessels. If it becomes inflamed or infected, root canal treatment can stop the pain and prevent tooth loss.

When Is a Root Canal Needed?

Root canal treatment is necessary when the pulp gets infected due to:

• Deep decay
• Repeated dental work
• A cracked or chipped tooth
• A broken crown or loose filling
• Trauma to the mouth (e.g., a fall or blow)

If left untreated, the infection can spread, causing serious pain or even an abscess.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Don’t ignore these symptoms—they could mean your tooth pulp is infected:

• Throbbing pain that gets worse over time
• Sensitivity to hot or cold
• Pain when chewing or biting
• Swollen or red gums
• A dark or discoloured tooth
• Loose tooth
• Bad taste or bad breath

See your dentist as soon as possible if you notice any of these.

What Happens During a Root Canal?

The procedure is usually done under local anaesthetic, so it’s not painful—just like getting a regular filling.

Here’s what to expect:

1. Your dentist removes the infected pulp.
2. The inside of your tooth is cleaned and disinfected.
3. The space is filled and sealed.
4. The tooth is restored with a crown or filling for protection.

In most cases, the surrounding tissue heals naturally.

Does a Root Canal Hurt?

Not at all. Thanks to modern techniques and anaesthetics, most people say it’s no worse than having a cavity filled.

You may feel some soreness for a few days afterward, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief like ibuprofen or paracetamol.

Aftercare: What to Do After Your Treatment

To help your tooth heal:

• Avoid chewing hard foods until the final crown or filling is in place.
• Keep the area clean and continue brushing and flossing gently.
• Take painkillers as advised if you feel any discomfort.

Contact your dentist if pain or swelling persists.

How Long Does a Root Canal Last?

With proper care, a tooth treated with a root canal can last 10 years or more. Success rates are high—around 9 out of 10 treatments are effective.

How to Avoid Future Root Canals

Prevention is always better than cure. To lower your risk:

• Brush twice a day and floss daily
• Visit your dentist regularly
• Avoid sugary snacks and drinks
• Quit smoking if you smoke

Save Your Natural Tooth

Root canal treatment can save your tooth and stop pain before it gets worse. At Abbey Mead Dental & Implant Clinic, our experienced team uses the latest techniques to keep you comfortable and your smile healthy.

Think you might need a root canal? Don’t wait.

Contact us at Abbey Mead Dental & Implant Clinic today to book an appointment.