Root Canal Treatment (Endodontics)

Root canal (endodontic) treatment is carried out to remove diseased and damaged pulp tissue from a tooth. This damage may occur for a variety of reasons including dental caries (decay), trauma, or damage resulting from old fillings or crowns. 

In many cases, the procedure can save a tooth that would otherwise require extraction.

About root canal treatment

Root canal treatment involves cleaning out the root canals and removing the diseased or damaged pulp tissue from the root canals. The root canals are cleaned and then filled with dental material.

Root canal treatment is performed under local anaesthetic to prevent any pain. We do offer sedation services for nervous patients and understand that root canal treatment may seem daunting. Please feel free to discuss sedation with us.

Why would I need root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment is recommended when tooth decay has spread to the pulp chamber or when the tooth has been traumatised. It is common for a crown to be fitted after root canal treatment to help seal the roots and offer strength to the remaining tooth during function.

Are there alternatives to root canal treatment?

The alternative to endodontic treatment is extraction of the tooth. Loss of a tooth could create a functional problem such as chewing or an aesthetic problem. Restoring the lost tooth may involve the provision of a prosthetic replacement such as a denture, bridge or a dental implant the costs of which are variable and usually higher. 

Answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) can be found on the Bristish Endodontic Society website:britishendodonticsociety/patientguide.pdf

Simply Endodontics is a dedicated clinic provided by Aisling Quinn, Specialist in Endodontics.

Referrals for treatment are usually be made by your dentist. In some cases it is also possible to self refer for this service. If you would like further information or to arrange a consultation, please call us or submit the online self-referral form.