Who needs root canal treatment?
You may need a root canal if you have lingering pain when you bite, a throbbing toothache, sensitivity to heat or cold that lasts after it is removed, a darkened tooth, or a swelling or pimple on the gum.
Some teeth show no symptoms, and the infection is only found on an X-ray. We explain the findings and the options before treatment starts.
- Relieves toothache from infection
- Keeps your natural tooth
- Carried out with local anaesthesia
How the procedure works
- 1We take X-rays and check that the tooth can be treated.
- 2The tooth is numbed, and a rubber sheet keeps it clean and dry during treatment.
- 3The infected pulp is removed and the canals are cleaned and shaped.
- 4The canals are sealed, and the tooth is restored with a filling or crown.
Pain and recovery
The procedure is comfortable. Most of the pain people remember comes from the infection before treatment.
The tooth may feel tender for a few days. Simple pain relief usually helps, and you should avoid chewing on it until it is restored.
Price range
Root canal treatment is priced per tooth after your examination, because each tooth is different. Ask us on WhatsApp for the current guide.
See how pricing works on our prices overview.
Before and after care
- Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the final crown or filling is in place.
- Take any pain relief as advised, and contact us if pain or swelling gets worse.
- Keep your restoration checked at your regular visits.
Frequently asked questions
Is a root canal painful?
The procedure is done under local anaesthesia and is usually no more uncomfortable than a filling. Much of the pain people remember comes from the infection.
How many visits does a root canal take?
Most take one or two visits, depending on how complex the tooth is and how severe the infection is.
Will a root-treated tooth need a crown?
Often, yes. A root-treated tooth can become brittle, so a crown is commonly advised to protect it, especially a back tooth.
What if my toothache keeps coming back after treatment?
Contact us. Sometimes a canal needs retreatment, and we will check the tooth with an X-ray and explain the options.
Can I drive home after a root canal?
In most cases, yes. Local anaesthesia wears off within a few hours, and you should avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it is restored.
The information on this site is general and is not a substitute for an examination by a dentist. Treatment decisions should be made after a consultation. In a medical emergency, contact emergency services or go to the nearest hospital.
Written and reviewed by Dr. Kamran Shahzad, BDS (Pb), C. Ortho (Germany). Last reviewed Sunday, 25 October 2026.
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